Risevoic
Balance of Plant Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 – Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Wilmington, DE, 19801
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 11 January 2026
Description
You will be involved in nuclear power plant systems design, including preparation or review of:
- Engineering analyses and evaluations to support modifications and operation of plant systems, specifically, hydraulic, heat transfer, and heat balance analyses.
- Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants
- Functional mechanical drawings and/or drawings for nuclear power 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
- Previous experience with power uprates and/or turbine related systems is favorable
- 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
This position plays a crucial role by performing detailed hydraulic and heat transfer analyses, ensuring mechanical systems meet strict nuclear safety codes and standards. Their work directly supports modifications and maintenance that enhance plant reliability and operational safety.
Expertise in heat balance evaluations, mechanical design drawing development, and vendor equipment assessment are essential. Familiarity with nuclear-specific codes and experience in turbine systems or power uprates significantly improve effectiveness in this role.
Starting here, engineers often advance by taking on more complex system designs and leading multidisciplinary teams, eventually moving into senior project engineer or managerial roles within nuclear engineering, leveraging their deepened technical and leadership skills.
Wilmington’s proximity to nuclear facilities and a strong regional energy sector drives steady demand. Additionally, local initiatives toward clean energy and plant modernization efforts increase opportunities for engineers with nuclear mechanical expertise.
While nuclear engineering is a niche field, Wilmington’s established energy industry attracts skilled candidates. However, Sargent & Lundy’s reputation and specialized projects mean candidates with experience in nuclear codes and plant modifications have a distinct advantage.
These projects require precise engineering assessments to safely increase output without compromising system integrity. Challenges include rigorous regulatory compliance, complex thermal-hydraulic analysis, and coordinating cross-functional teams to implement modifications efficiently.
Sargent & Lundy emphasizes integrated project leadership combined with deep technical involvement in nuclear system design, plus opportunities to engage directly with clients on-site. Their award-winning benefits and focus on innovation also set them apart.
While a PE license is beneficial and recognized, the company primarily values extensive nuclear power industry experience and proven knowledge of applicable codes and standards over mandatory certifications for this role.
The position offers a competitive salary ranging approximately from $116,620 to $179,890, reflecting both the seniority level and specialized expertise required in nuclear mechanical engineering within the Wilmington market.