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Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37402
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 13 January 2026
Description
Nuclear Power is a carbon-free energy source. Our electric power generation clients are digitizing their existing power plants and building new nuclear power plants, small modular reactors (SMR). This is expanding work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group. Due to this influx of work, Sargent & Lundy has a need for I&C Engineers.
As a Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer, you will work on major process controls engineering projects in the following areas:
- Digital Systems -- PLC, DCS, Touchscreen displays, network switches and control systems.
- Functional Requirement and Procurement Specifications for instrumentation and control components and systems.
- Process instrumentation replacement evaluation reports and nuclear modification packages.
- Prepare documentation for design input for drawing production including cable block diagrams and schematics.
- Interface with vendors and prepare equipment purchase specifications.
- Prepare reports and studies that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
- Development of P&ID’s and System Design Descriptions.
- Attend client meetings and perform site walkdowns to ensure the client is satisfied with our work product.
- Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced nuclear instrumentation and controls design engineers.
- Support station outage activities as required .
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:
- A BS or MS degree in engineering from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program
- 5 or more years of experience in design engineering for process control systems
- Technically knowledgeable of available equipment and proven pre-engineered systems to execute systems design
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Experience in reviewing design drawings created by others.
Valued but not required skills and experience
- Experience in design engineering for nuclear power plant control system.
- PE License
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
$82,380.00 - $125,860.00Transparency 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
Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineers in nuclear settings focus on designing and maintaining control systems critical to plant safety and efficiency. Their expertise in digital systems like PLCs and DCS, combined with nuclear-specific standards, sets them apart from general instrumentation engineers, ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory requirements.
Proficiency in PLC programming, DCS integration, and network switch configuration is vital. Additionally, familiarity with nuclear safety protocols, functional requirement documentation, and experience in preparing P&IDs and system design descriptions are crucial for delivering robust instrumentation solutions in nuclear environments.
Daily tasks often include reviewing design drawings, developing procurement specifications for control components, interfacing with vendors, conducting site walkdowns, and mentoring junior engineers. These activities ensure the seamless operation and modernization of nuclear plant control systems while adhering to safety standards.
Chattanooga's growing focus on clean energy initiatives, including nuclear plant modernization, has increased demand for skilled I&C engineers. However, local competition remains moderate due to the specialized nature of nuclear engineering, making strong technical credentials highly advantageous for candidates.
While a PE license is valued but not mandatory, certifications in nuclear safety, control systems, or related engineering disciplines enhance employability. Given Tennessee's regulatory environment, engineers with recognized credentials often have an edge in securing senior-level nuclear roles.
Sargent & Lundy balances remote and in-office work by requiring onsite presence three days per week. This hybrid model supports collaboration on complex nuclear projects while accommodating flexible working arrangements, fostering productivity and work-life balance.
Sargent & Lundy emphasizes career growth through mentorship roles, involvement in cutting-edge small modular reactor projects, and participation in international nuclear initiatives. Their award-winning benefits and commitment to employee well-being also distinguish them within the nuclear engineering sector.
The compensation typically spans from $82,380 to $125,860 annually, reflecting experience and specialization. This range aligns with regional market standards for senior nuclear instrumentation roles and is complemented by comprehensive benefits and performance bonuses.
Hands-on expertise with nuclear control systems enhances prospects for leadership roles, specialized consulting positions, or involvement in advanced reactor technologies. Mastery in digital modernization projects also positions engineers for pivotal contributions in evolving energy sectors.
Challenges include stringent regulatory compliance, system integration complexities, and vendor coordination. Senior engineers mitigate risks through meticulous documentation, proactive client engagement, and leveraging their deep technical knowledge to guide teams through intricate design and implementation phases.