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Mechanical Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chicago, IL, 60603
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 4 January 2026
Description
- This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering
- You will be preparing calculations, specifications, and technical reports to support client recommendations and reviews, and will conduct equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to project needs
- While supporting project teams with other mechanical engineers, you will be involved in system engineering, including the design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems
- There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
- This position requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and thermal systems
- Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design
- Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in the production of technical plans, fabrication drawings, and models
- Assignments require the preparation of calculations and reports, and excellent technical report writing skills are essential
- Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving
- Proficiency with MS Office applications
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Valued but not required skills and experience:
- A Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program
- Related engineering internship or co-op work experience
- Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training
- Experience in writing and providing support documentation for Mechanical Engineering calculations
- Coursework in the following:
- Power engineering
- Turbomachinery
- Energy conversion
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
$60,660.00 - $87,090.00Transparency 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
Chicago's industrial and energy sectors foster a growing demand for early-career mechanical engineers with nuclear expertise, though competition remains moderate. Candidates with strong thermodynamics and power plant system knowledge tend to stand out, especially when paired with internships or relevant certifications.
While a Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) license is highly regarded, Illinois employers also value ABET-accredited degrees and hands-on internships. Certifications related to nuclear safety or power plant operations can further enhance a candidate's profile within this specialized engineering niche.
Mastering thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer principles is essential. Proficiency in preparing technical calculations and reports, along with experience in equipment sizing and system analysis, will significantly elevate your capability to contribute effectively to nuclear power projects.
Progression often leads to roles involving system design leadership, project engineering, and eventually senior engineering or management positions. Gaining experience with advanced reactor technologies and nuclear safety enhances opportunities for specialization and international project involvement.
Absolutely. Sargent & Lundy's leadership in advanced reactor technology and small modular reactors provides early-career engineers with hands-on experience in cutting-edge nuclear designs, alongside involvement in projects supporting plant life extension and digital modernization.
The company offers structured mentorship, opportunities to attend design reviews both onsite and at client locations, and encouragement to pursue engineering certifications. Combined with comprehensive benefits, this creates a nurturing environment for technical and career advancement.
Entry-level mechanical engineers in this field typically earn between $60,660 and $87,090 annually in Chicago. Compensation varies with experience, education, and project complexity, often supplemented by bonuses and extensive benefits packages.
Chicago’s traffic congestion and reliance on public transport can extend commute times to industrial zones or plant sites. Candidates often balance proximity preferences with opportunities to travel occasionally for vendor meetings or plant inspections.
Chicago benefits from a solid base of energy and manufacturing companies investing in nuclear projects, offering steady entry-level opportunities. While not as concentrated as some coastal hubs, it presents a strategic market for engineers interested in clean energy and power plant modernization.
At Sargent & Lundy, early-career mechanical engineers engage deeply with power plant mechanical system design and optimization, with frequent client interaction and site visits. This hands-on approach contrasts with more office-bound roles, providing richer exposure to real-world nuclear engineering challenges.