Risevoic
Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : New Orleans, LA, 70112
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Description
This role offers 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
In this position, you’ll influence the mechanical design and modification of nuclear power plant systems, ensuring adherence to stringent safety standards. By leading project teams, you drive advancements in clean energy technology while supporting critical operational reliability in nuclear facilities.
Proficiency in nuclear codes, standards, and regulations is vital, alongside experience with plant system modifications and vendor evaluations. Engineers must navigate complex safety requirements and regional regulations to effectively contribute to nuclear power initiatives in this area.
Professionals typically progress from hands-on design and analysis to leadership roles managing engineering teams and client interactions. Building expertise in nuclear plant systems and cost estimation opens doors to spearheading innovative projects and shaping industry practices.
Balancing on-site presence with remote work requires managing complex projects while maintaining clear communication across teams. Regional infrastructure and client site visits add logistical layers, demanding adaptability and strong organizational skills in this hybrid setup.
The company emphasizes collaborative project leadership and integrates cutting-edge reactor technology developments. Their award-winning benefits and focus on sustainability create an environment where mechanical engineers can lead with innovation and comprehensive support.
New Orleans has a growing demand for experienced nuclear engineers due to regional energy initiatives. While candidates with deep nuclear mechanical expertise are sought after, competition remains moderate, favoring those with 10+ years and specialized qualifications.
Yes, the role includes client site visits and presentations, fostering direct collaboration. This exposure enhances project ownership and strengthens professional relationships, essential for leading successful nuclear engineering modifications.
Compensation typically spans from approximately $116,620 to $179,890 annually, reflecting the seniority and specialized nature of the role within the nuclear power sector, combined with Sargent & Lundy’s comprehensive benefits package.
While a PE license is advantageous, deep knowledge of nuclear engineering codes and standards is paramount. Continuous professional development aligned with ABET-accredited mechanical engineering education also plays a key role in career advancement here.
The three-day in-office schedule fosters in-person coordination critical for complex nuclear projects, while remote days offer flexibility for focused analysis and documentation. This balance supports efficient workflow without compromising team synergy.