HVAC Engineer 3 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chicago, IL, 60603
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 8 January 2026
Description
- You will work on challenging assignments that include designing of HVAC systems, investigating, trouble-shooting, and solving a wide variety of HVAC engineering issues
- You will meet with others to develop integrated HVAC systems including the following:
- Commercial/Industrial Ventilation Systems
- Control room HVAC
- Laboratory HVAC
- Chilled water system design
- Heating system design
- Provide support in the planning, scheduling, conducting, or coordinating of the detailed design phases of all aspects of facility engineering work
- Perform design calculations and develop detailed system design
- Prepare technical specifications for HVAC equipment
- Prepare engineering studies
- You will provide support to other engineers, project managers, client personnel, and suppliers to assure a complete and timely design
- You will assist senior engineers with reviews of existing facilities to propose upgrades and replacements, and may present findings and recommendations to clients and peers
- Familiarity with ASHRAE and Current HVAC Industry Codes and Standards
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 in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program is required
- Three or more years of relevant HVAC system, ventilation systems, heating systems, and chilled water system design experience for laboratory and/or industrial facilities
- Proficiency in TRACE 700 or Carrier HAP
- Ability to create design flow diagrams, and Process & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
- Prior knowledge of relevant codes and standards applicable to HVAC and ventilation system
Valued but not required skills and experience:
- AutoCAD
- CADME
- MicroStation
- PE license
- ASHRAE Membership
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
$72,690.00 - $106,250.00Transparency 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 Chicago's nuclear sector, this HVAC Engineer 3 position plays a vital role ensuring ventilation systems meet stringent safety standards. The engineer develops integrated HVAC designs that support control rooms and laboratories, mitigating risks associated with nuclear environments while complying with local codes and ASHRAE standards.
Mastery in designing chilled water and heating systems, along with proficiency in Trace 700 or Carrier HAP, is critical. Knowledge of P&IDs and relevant HVAC codes enhances performance, especially when addressing complex nuclear facility requirements and integrating multi-disciplinary engineering efforts.
Advancing beyond HVAC Engineer 3 often involves leading multidisciplinary projects, obtaining a PE license, or specializing in nuclear HVAC controls. Growth is fueled by technical expertise, ASHRAE involvement, and contributions to nuclear system modernization, positioning engineers for senior roles or project management.
Sargent & Lundy offers a hybrid schedule blending in-office collaboration with remote flexibility, enabling HVAC Engineer 3s to manage complex design tasks efficiently. The company’s emphasis on work-life balance includes wellness programs and paid leave, fostering productivity while accommodating project timelines.
Given Sargent & Lundy’s reputation and focus on innovative nuclear projects, their HVAC Engineer 3 openings attract highly qualified candidates. The combination of specialized HVAC design in nuclear settings and strong benefits makes these roles desirable, often demanding proven technical expertise in local job markets.
Compensation ranges from approximately $72,690 to $106,250 annually, reflecting factors like experience, certifications, and project complexity. This salary aligns with Chicago’s competitive nuclear engineering market and includes comprehensive benefits that emphasize employee well-being and professional growth.
Sargent & Lundy distinguishes itself through its legacy in nuclear engineering, hybrid work model, and award-winning benefits. The role involves cutting-edge projects like SMRs and coal-to-nuclear conversions, offering HVAC Engineers unique exposure to pioneering technologies within Chicago’s evolving energy landscape.
Applicants should be conversant with ASHRAE standards and Illinois-specific HVAC regulations, which influence nuclear facility design. Familiarity with Chicago’s industrial ventilation requirements and compliance nuances enhances system safety and efficiency in local nuclear engineering projects.
Yes, the Chicago region sees growing demand for HVAC Engineers skilled in nuclear applications, driven by plant life extensions and modernization. Professionals adept at integrating ventilation and chilled water systems for nuclear sites find diverse opportunities with firms committed to clean energy initiatives.
The role requires close coordination with project managers, suppliers, and engineers across disciplines to ensure timely, compliant HVAC designs. This collaborative approach supports complex nuclear initiatives, from laboratory ventilation to control room climate control, emphasizing safety and innovation.