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Senior Mechanical Designer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37402
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 9 January 2026
Description
- Under the direction of the Mechanical Project Lead, this position will offer you the opportunity to work with multi-disciplined engineering and design project teams in developing mechanical physical layout drawings in a 3-D model
- Challenging assignments that include the design of mechanical/structural systems, and investigating, trouble-shooting, and solving a wide variety of mechanical and structural design issues
- Utilize 3D modeling software tools to generate mechanical and structural related design drawings
- Act as the Mechanical/Structural Responsible Designer in the coordination of detailed design phases for all aspects of an integrated mechanical design model
- Coordinate and provide guidance to other designers and project team members to ensure a complete and timely design
- Independently plan and execute design deliverables, such as general arrangements, piping isometrics, piping composites, pipe support drawings, and equipment location drawings
- There may be the opportunity to conduct field walkdowns and data gathering at client facilities
- Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced drafters and designers
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 drafting course work or equivalent technical experience
- 10 or more years of detailed physical design experience in the development of mechanical general arrangements, piping systems, and supports
- 5 or more years of experience in the nuclear power industry
- Proficiency with design software tools in executing 3D plant layout models
- 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 power plant 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
$74,750.00 - $115,120.00Transparency 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
Chattanooga's nuclear engineering field is moderately competitive, with a steady demand for experienced mechanical designers skilled in 3D modeling and nuclear plant layouts. Candidates with over 10 years of industry-specific experience, especially in nuclear power, tend to have a distinct advantage in hiring processes.
While not always mandatory, certifications like ASME piping or nuclear quality standards enhance credibility in Chattanooga’s nuclear market. Local employers often value demonstrated proficiency in nuclear safety protocols and advanced 3D design software, aligning with regional regulatory expectations.
Candidates should have at least an associate's degree in drafting or equivalent technical experience, plus over a decade of detailed mechanical design expertise, particularly within nuclear power. Mastery of 3D plant layout software and the ability to coordinate interdisciplinary design teams are crucial for success.
Advancement often leads toward principal mechanical design engineer or senior project engineering roles within nuclear firms. The combination of nuclear-specific experience and leadership in complex mechanical design projects opens doors to managerial positions or specialized technical consultancies.
Senior designers independently manage intricate mechanical layouts, lead coordination among multi-disciplinary teams, and mentor junior staff. They also troubleshoot complex mechanical problems, ensuring compliance with nuclear standards, unlike junior roles primarily focused on basic drafting and support tasks.
Sargent & Lundy provides hybrid work flexibility, award-winning benefits, and involvement in cutting-edge nuclear projects like SMRs and advanced reactors. The company’s commitment to employee growth and a collaborative culture distinguishes it within the nuclear engineering sector.
Senior mechanical designers at Sargent & Lundy play pivotal roles in conceptualizing and executing detailed 3D mechanical layouts, interfacing with engineering teams, and guiding less experienced designers. Their contributions directly impact the progress of innovative nuclear technologies and plant modernization.
The typical compensation for a Senior Mechanical Designer in Chattanooga ranges from approximately $74,750 to $115,120 annually. This reflects the specialized skills required in nuclear power design, with potential bonuses enhancing total earnings.
The hybrid model balances in-office collaboration thrice weekly with remote work flexibility, enabling designers to engage closely with project teams for complex design coordination while managing individual tasks efficiently from home, enhancing productivity and work-life balance.
Expertise in 3D modeling software is vital as it underpins the creation of accurate mechanical and structural plant layouts. This skill ensures seamless integration of various design elements and supports efficient problem-solving in nuclear facility projects.