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Lead Mechanical Engineer 2 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37402
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:
- 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
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.
- BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET accredited program
- 12 or more 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
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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
$131,960.00 - $205,330.00Transparency 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 the nuclear sector, a Lead Mechanical Engineer 2 focuses heavily on safety-critical systems, regulatory compliance, and modification of operating nuclear plants. Unlike general mechanical roles, this position demands deep knowledge of nuclear codes, standards, and extensive experience with plant equipment design and vendor evaluations.
Chattanooga’s growing energy sector offers nuclear mechanical engineers pathways into senior project leadership or specialized technical roles such as reactor systems design. Experience with regulatory standards and plant modernization can lead to consulting or managerial roles in both public utilities and private nuclear firms.
While a PE license is advantageous, credentials related to nuclear safety, ASME codes, and quality assurance can significantly boost employability. Local employers in Tennessee often value candidates with demonstrated compliance knowledge and hands-on experience with nuclear plant systems.
Sargent & Lundy requires hybrid attendance with at least three days per week in-office, balancing hands-on project collaboration and remote engineering tasks. This setup supports effective client interaction and site visits critical for nuclear power plant system modifications.
Sargent & Lundy emphasizes work-life balance and employee well-being, offering award-winning benefits like extensive healthcare, paid leave, flexible schedules, and career development bonuses. This approach fosters a supportive environment for engineers handling complex nuclear systems.
Chattanooga benefits from a stable demand for nuclear engineers due to regional energy initiatives and ongoing plant modernizations. While competition exists, specialized expertise in nuclear mechanical systems and compliance gives candidates a competitive edge locally.
Compensation for this role ranges from approximately $131,960 to $205,330 annually, reflecting experience, technical expertise, and project leadership. Factors like nuclear industry certifications, PE licensure, and involvement in advanced reactor technologies can impact earning potential.
Engineers must navigate stringent safety regulations, aging infrastructure retrofits, and client-driven modifications while coordinating multi-disciplinary teams. Chattanooga’s specific regional codes and work culture add layers of complexity that require adaptable and precise engineering solutions.
Sargent & Lundy’s legacy in nuclear innovation, commitment to carbon-free energy, and hybrid work policy create a distinctive work environment. Their focus on first-of-a-kind reactor projects and coal-to-nuclear conversions offers unique technical challenges uncommon at other companies.
Lead Mechanical Engineers frequently engage with clients through site visits and presentations to discuss engineering progress and technical evaluations. This role blends technical leadership with interpersonal communication, ensuring alignment on complex nuclear system modifications.