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Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Cedar Rapids, IA, 52405
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Description
This position will require onsite support in/around the Cedar Rapids Area supporting project needs with a hybrid work arrangement. You'll spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.
You will be involved in nuclear power plant systems design, including preparation or review of:
- Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants
- Functional mechanical drawings and/or drawings for nuclear power plant systems
- Engineering analyses and evaluations to support modifications and operation of plant systems
- Technical specifications and procurement documents for plant equipment
- Vendor bid evaluations for plant equipment
- Studies and options evaluations for modifications to operating nuclear power plants
In addition, you will have the opportunity to:
- Develop engineering cost estimates for small to mid-sized client-requested work scopes
- Visit client office and/or plant site locations to interface with the client and make presentations related to engineering tasks and status
- Lead engineering project teams
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
- BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET accredited program
- A minimum of 10 years of experience in the power industry
- Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants
- PE license is beneficial, but not required
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
$116,620.00 - $179,890.00Transparency 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
A Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 in nuclear focuses heavily on safety-critical systems, compliance with nuclear codes, and plant modifications. Unlike general engineering leads, this role demands deep understanding of nuclear regulations and experience with power plant operations, emphasizing risk management and precise project execution.
Proficiency in mechanical design aligned with nuclear standards, expertise in plant system modifications, and familiarity with vendor equipment evaluations are pivotal. Additionally, leadership in managing engineering teams and navigating regulatory frameworks drives career growth in nuclear mechanical engineering.
Day-to-day tasks involve reviewing nuclear plant modification packages, preparing technical specs, conducting engineering evaluations, and collaborating with vendors. The role also includes site visits and leading project teams, blending hands-on engineering with strategic leadership in nuclear power systems.
Cedar Rapids hosts a niche but growing demand for nuclear mechanical engineers, driven by nearby energy projects. Competition remains moderate, with a premium on candidates experienced in nuclear codes and power plant systems, especially those holding PE licenses or advanced engineering degrees.
While a PE license is beneficial, local employers highly value ABET-accredited degrees and familiarity with nuclear regulatory standards. Certifications related to nuclear safety and plant operations can enhance candidacy, reflecting regional emphasis on compliance and technical expertise.
Sargent & Lundy provides comprehensive healthcare, flexible hybrid work schedules, and generous paid leaves. Their award-winning benefits also include tuition assistance, professional licensure bonuses, and wellness programs, fostering a supportive environment tailored for nuclear engineering professionals.
The company encourages leadership through project team management, client engagement opportunities, and ongoing technical challenges in nuclear design. Their culture promotes innovation and mentorship, empowering engineers to grow as decision-makers in complex nuclear projects.
Salaries range from $116,620 to $179,890, aligning with the nuclear sector's demand for seasoned expertise. This range accounts for experience, licensure, and project leadership responsibilities, positioning compensation competitively within the regional and national power engineering markets.