Instrumentation & Controls Engineering Consultant 2 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chicago, IL, 60603
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 6 January 2026
Description
Nuclear Power is a carbon-free energy source. Our nuclear power generation clients are digitizing their existing power plants and building new nuclear power plants, small modular reactors (SMR) due to the increasing demand for electric power. This is expanding our work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group. Due to this influx of work, Sargent & Lundy has a need for additional I&C Engineers.
This I&C position offers the opportunity to work on upgrading and modernizing nuclear power plants with the latest control technologies the industry offers. You will be expected to both lead and support small and large controls projects with a focus on technical execution and effective Project Management. These projects will require coordination with mechanical, electrical, and structural disciplines to bring the project to completion.
You work will include investigating, troubleshooting, and resolving a wide variety of controls engineering issues, including the following:
- Develop Digital Systems Design -- PLC, DCS, HSI, networked computer systems.
- Prepare control system functional and implementation requirements and procurement specifications for nuclear plant control systems.
- Interface with the client to ensure proper project execution and client satisfaction.
- Prepare and review technical reports, calculations, and studies to present information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
- Manage resources/resource loading and develop estimates for task completion and budget development.
- Support the development of proposals.
- Prepare and review diagrams and drawings for new and upgraded controls solutions.
- Evaluate vendor bids from a technical perspective.
- Interface with vendors to perform document reviews, ensure equipment compliance with specifications and needs of the plant, and witness FAT performance on behalf of the client.
- Support implementation of the project at the client’s facilities.
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
- BS or MS in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, or Nuclear Engineering from an ABET accredited program.
- 10 or more years of experience in I&C Design Engineering. At least 5 years of this experience needs to be at a nuclear facility.
- PE license is preferred.
- Ability to clearly communicate both in speech and written formats.
- Technically knowledgeable of available equipment and proven pre-engineered systems to execute systems design.
- Experience with serving as the firm's client liaison in a support or lead engineering role.
- Experience in reviewing design documentation
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
$142,710.00 - $215,440.00Transparency 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
This position uniquely blends advanced control systems design with nuclear plant safety standards, demanding deep expertise in PLC, DCS, and HSI systems specific to nuclear environments. Unlike general engineering roles, it requires navigating stringent regulatory frameworks and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams focused on carbon-free power generation.
Proficiency in digital control system design, nuclear facility protocols, and vendor evaluation is essential. Additionally, hands-on experience with nuclear plant instrumentation and a strong foundation in electrical or nuclear engineering will help you navigate Chicago's evolving energy infrastructure.
While a PE license is preferred, candidates with ABET-accredited engineering degrees and substantial nuclear plant experience stand out. Local industry standards emphasize rigorous safety and design certifications relevant to nuclear instrumentation and controls.
Chicago’s growing focus on nuclear modernization projects has increased demand for specialized I&C engineers. The region’s strong energy sector investment means competition is moderate but favors professionals with nuclear-specific expertise and project leadership skills.
Expect a collaborative environment emphasizing safety, innovation, and cross-disciplinary coordination. Projects often involve upgrading legacy systems and implementing cutting-edge digital controls, requiring adaptability and a client-focused mindset.
The company provides comprehensive healthcare, paid leave, and flexible work arrangements tailored to support work-life balance. Notably, they offer bonuses for professional licensure and merit scholarships, recognizing the specialized skills required in nuclear controls engineering.
Their approach integrates rigorous technical execution with proactive client engagement and resource management, ensuring projects meet nuclear safety standards while adopting modern control technologies. This results in reliable, compliant, and efficient plant upgrades.
Compensation typically spans from $142,710 to $215,440 annually, reflecting experience, project complexity, and certification level. This range aligns with industry standards for senior nuclear controls engineers in the Chicago area, supplemented by comprehensive benefits and bonuses.
Sargent & Lundy emphasizes integrated digital modernization and cross-disciplinary collaboration, often leading first-of-a-kind reactor projects. Compared to peers, their consultants engage more deeply in client interfacing and vendor oversight, enhancing both technical and managerial facets.
Engineers must navigate Chicago's urban infrastructure and regulatory landscape, balancing commute considerations with the region’s stringent environmental policies. Moreover, adapting to the Midwest’s evolving energy mix demands versatility in control system modernization.