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Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 (Project Manager / Program Manager) - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37402
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 10 January 2026
Description
This position will offer you the opportunity to manage project(s) consisting of engineers, designers, and controls and scheduling professionals involved in the design, modification, and analysis of new and existing nuclear power plant modifications. The position will involve coordinating with multiple internal and external departments to manage the life cycle of project execution.
- Responsible for project execution, coordination of resources from each discipline as required.
- Take ownership for all aspects of project performance including safety, schedule, budget, reporting and client experience through entire project lifecycle.
- Manage and direct the project team to ensure accountability. Mentor and coach team members.
- Develop and maintain a positive working relationship with client task engineers and stakeholders.
- Lead efforts to ensure projects are completed safely, satisfactorily, on time, and within budget.
- Support the reporting of key performance indicators for schedule, budget and other dashboard items.
- Identify and control construction risk.
- Recognize, identify, track and control change.
- Prepare and review modification packages, mechanical drawings, and engineering analyses or evaluations for operating nuclear plants and systems as required.
- Prepare technical specifications and procurement documents, and conduct vendor bid evaluations for plant equipment as required.
- Communicate and consult with appropriate stakeholders and supervisors.
- Prepare reports and studies that present technical information in a clear and concise manner and meet client requirements and Sargent & Lundy formats.
- Analyze issues and provide solutions to improve results.
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:
- BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited engineering program
- Proven experience managing multi-disciplinary teams
- 10 or more years of experience in a technical field (engineering, construction, planning, etc.)
- 5 or more years of experience in the power industry
- 5 or more years of experience with serving as a firm/client liaison in a support or lead role
- Ability to multitask and manage multiple competing priorities
- Proven experience completing technical deliverables for modification packages for operating power plants
- Knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants
- Engineering design experience
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work in a collaborative team setting
- Schedule and budget development and management
Valued but not required skills and experience:
- Construction Management, MBA, or other management/business degree
- PMP Certification
- Experience writing proposals
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 in Chattanooga oversees design modifications that ensure mechanical systems meet stringent nuclear safety standards. Their role includes risk identification and coordination with multidisciplinary teams to maintain compliance with codes, enhancing the overall safety and reliability of nuclear facilities.
Expertise in schedule control, budget oversight, and resource coordination across engineering disciplines is vital. These skills enable a Mechanical Engineer to steer complex nuclear projects efficiently, ensuring timely delivery while adhering to regulatory and safety requirements.
Daily tasks often involve reviewing mechanical design packages, liaising with clients and vendors, managing team deliverables, and overseeing safety protocols. The role demands multitasking between technical analysis, team leadership, and stakeholder communication within nuclear power contexts.
Sargent & Lundy fosters growth through mentoring opportunities, challenging project assignments, and access to advanced training. Their culture encourages leadership development within nuclear engineering, empowering engineers to expand their technical and managerial expertise.
The firm's specialized focus on nuclear energy, combined with hybrid work flexibility and award-winning benefits, creates a unique environment. Engineers engage with cutting-edge reactor technologies and enjoy strong support for work-life balance and professional development.
Compensation typically ranges from $116,620 to $179,890 annually, reflecting experience and project leadership responsibilities. This range aligns with Chattanooga’s competitive market for senior mechanical engineers in energy industries.
While national licenses like PE are essential, Chattanooga’s industry network values certifications in project management (PMP) and nuclear safety standards, which enhance credibility and are often preferred by employers in the region.
Engineers must navigate stringent regulatory environments, coordinate across multiple teams, and manage evolving project scopes. Local infrastructure and hybrid work models also require adaptability to balance on-site presence with remote collaboration.
Absolutely. Successful project execution depends on integrating efforts from engineers, designers, and control specialists. Proven leadership in such diverse teams is key to meeting safety, schedule, and budget goals in nuclear projects.
The company’s commitment to employee well-being and inclusive culture creates a supportive atmosphere. This encourages innovation, mentorship, and strong client relationships, making it an engaging workplace for engineers focused on nuclear energy advancement.