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Mechanical Designer 3 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37402
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 10 January 2026
Description
- As a member of the mechanical design team, this position will offer you the opportunity to work in a multi-disciplined engineering and design project team developing mechanical equipment location, piping layout and pipe support deliverables
- Participate in 3D model reviews and the coordination of detailed design phases for all aspects of an integrated mechanical design
- Provide support to other designers and project team members in order to ensure a complete and timely design
- Layout mechanical equipment maintaining required spatial clearances utilizing 3D modeling software
- Develop physical piping layout and pipe support designs utilizing 3D modeling software in an integrated 3D design environment
- Layout piping, associated components and pipe supports utilizing system design criteria and engineering piping & instrumentation diagram (P&ID) information
- Work with mechanical equipment 3D model layout and vendor drawings to verify equipment and component connection points
- Work in 3D model with other design disciplines to ensure that physical clearances are met and constructability, accessibility, and operations and maintenance requirements are maintained
- Work with piping stress and structural engineers to locate and detail required pipe supports
- Develop 2D mechanical equipment location, piping isometric and mechanical piping composite drawings from the 3D model
- Develop 2D pipe support drawings
- Generate complete bills of materials for piping and pipe supports
This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
- An Associate's Degree in drafting, or a high school diploma and 4+ years of drafting course work or equivalent technical experience
- 8 or more years of detailed physical design experience in the development of mechanical general arrangements, piping systems, and supports
- 3 or more years of experience in the nuclear power industry
- Proficiency in 3D integrated plant modeling design software tools
- Proficiency in 3D MicroStation or 3D AutoCAD
- Proficiency in reading spreadsheets created from the 3D model
- Experience in the review of mechanical equipment, including outlines and interface points, and coordinating and developing the associated deliverables
- Ability to interface with engineering and design teams of other disciplines in the project design process
Valued but not required experience:
- Proficiency with MicroStation
Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance- Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
- Life & Accident Insurance
- Disability Coverage
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Back-Up Daycare
- FSA & HSA
- 401(k)
- Pre-Tax Commuter Account
- Merit Scholarship Program
- Employee Discount Program
- Corporate Charitable Giving Program
- Tuition Assistance
- First Professional Licensure Bonus
- Employee Referral Bonus
- Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- Paid Bereavement Leave
- Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range
$63,480.00 - $99,080.00Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.About This Business Unit
Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we’ve been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!
Awards & Recognition
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.
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Frequently asked questions
Expertise in 3D integrated plant modeling software such as MicroStation or AutoCAD is crucial for a Mechanical Designer 3 in nuclear projects. Mastery in developing piping layouts, equipment placement, and pipe support designs tailored for nuclear safety and compliance enhances design accuracy and project success.
Unlike general mechanical design roles, nuclear-focused Mechanical Designer 3 positions demand a deep understanding of stringent safety standards, radiation considerations, and specialized equipment layouts. Coordination with nuclear engineers and adherence to regulatory frameworks make this role uniquely challenging and critical.
Advancement often leads to senior design engineer roles, project management, or specialized nuclear engineering positions. Gaining expertise in regulatory compliance and advanced 3D modeling tools can open doors to leadership within nuclear design teams and involvement in cutting-edge reactor technology projects.
Local employers highly value certifications related to nuclear safety and mechanical drafting, such as Certified Engineering Technician credentials or specialized nuclear industry training. While not always mandatory, these certifications boost credibility and align with Tennessee’s growing focus on energy sector standards.
Chattanooga’s nuclear engineering sector is expanding, increasing demand for skilled Mechanical Designers. However, competition remains moderate due to the specialized skill set required. Candidates with hands-on 3D modeling experience and nuclear industry background have a distinct advantage in this regional job market.
Sargent & Lundy offers exposure to pioneering nuclear projects including SMRs and advanced reactors, fostering innovation in carbon-free energy. Employees benefit from collaborative multi-disciplinary teams and access to award-winning benefits, emphasizing professional growth alongside work-life balance.
The company promotes continuous learning with tuition assistance and merit scholarships, alongside a hybrid work schedule balancing onsite collaboration and flexibility. This approach nurtures skill enhancement within a safety-conscious culture, essential for the demanding nuclear engineering sector.
Salaries typically range between $63,480 and $99,080 annually, reflecting experience and technical expertise in nuclear mechanical design. This compensation aligns competitively with local industry standards, complemented by comprehensive benefits and potential discretionary bonuses.
The hybrid model supports close coordination required for complex nuclear designs while offering remote flexibility. Being onsite thrice weekly facilitates direct collaboration with engineering teams, ensuring precise integration of mechanical layouts and adherence to stringent safety protocols.
Designers must navigate tight spatial clearances, regulatory compliance, and interdisciplinary coordination. Chattanooga’s evolving energy landscape demands innovative solutions balancing constructability, accessibility, and maintenance needs, all within the rigorous safety context of nuclear facilities.