Risevoic
Lead Mechanical Engineer -- Owner's Engineering Support
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chicago, IL, 60603
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 7 January 2026
Description
Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
- You will help develop conceptual and detailed designs for new power generation with an emphasis on gas turbine based simple and combined cycle facilities.
- You will be responsible for leading the Mechanical Engineering design efforts for a team of junior and senior engineers and designers.
- You will work on challenging assignments that include investigating, trouble-shooting, and solving a wide variety of mechanical engineering issues.
- Act as the Mechanical team lead in the coordination of detailed design phases for all aspects of mechanical engineering work.
- Develop integrated systems designs and perform supporting calculations for the planned work.
- Prepare technical specifications for EPC based projects, as well as mechanical engineering equipment for power production.
- Prepare engineering studies, including FEED studies, associated with the power industry.
- Perform independent reviews of work performed by others including calculations and drawing preparation.
- Coordinate and provide guidance to other engineers, project managers, client personnel, and suppliers to ensure a complete and timely design.
- Perform reviews of existing facilities to propose upgrades and replacements, and present findings and recommendations to clients and peers.
- Develop your career via peer-learning through sharing of knowledge with other experienced engineers by way of S&L’s systems of process and associated “Communities of Practice.”
- Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced engineers.
- Occasional travel to other regional offices is expected (less than 10%).
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:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program is required; Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering preferred.
- 10 or more years experience in the design of mechanical engineering systems for non-commercial, heavy industrial plants (power, oil & gas, or chemical), with a focus on integrated, detailed system design for new plants, modifications, or replacements; Experience must include the selection of equipment, piping materials, control philosophy, and the preparation of performance sizing calculations and specifications.
- Three or more years experience in leading an engineering design team through all phases of a project design.
- Knowledge of gas turbines and procurement of gas turbines for both Industrial Frame (aka Heavy Duty) and Aeroderivative types for power generation is preferred.
- Mechanical lead role for detailed design of simple cycle and/or combined cycle project(s) is preferred.
- Technically knowledgeable of available equipment and proven pre-engineered systems to execute systems design.
- Able to create design schematics, such as flow diagrams and P&IDs, using computer design software.
- Experience with serving as firm/client liaison in a support or lead engineering role.
- Experience in reviewing design drawings created by others.
- PE license.
Valued but not required skills and experience:
- Construction and start-up experience a plus.
- Commissioning experience a plus.
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
The Energy & Industrial Group (EIG) specializes in delivering advanced engineering solutions across various sectors, including power generation, environmental compliance, oil & gas, and industrial projects, from new plant design to plant betterment and upgrade services for operating facilities. We have designed nearly 900 conventional power plants, yielding over 100,000 megawatts (MW) of generation capacity. Our expertise includes numerous recent and ongoing combined cycle projects that leverage the latest advanced machinery, including combustion turbines, steam turbines, and heat recovery steam generators from all leading suppliers. EIG is recognized for its commitment to decarbonization through innovative technologies in renewable energy, carbon capture, and hydrogen power. We excel in detailed engineering services for photovoltaic (PV) solar projects and energy storage integration, and lead the industry in carbon capture technologies, managing projects from conceptual studies, pilot demonstrations and through commercial scale implementation for utilities and industrial plants.
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
This position uniquely blends leadership in mechanical design with specialized expertise in gas turbine-based power generation, emphasizing collaboration and detailed system integration. Unlike standard mechanical roles, it involves guiding multi-disciplinary teams and managing complex EPC project specifications within Chicago’s industrial environment.
Proficiency in gas turbine technologies, detailed system design, and equipment specification is vital. Additionally, leading design phases, mentoring junior engineers, and performing independent technical reviews sets this role apart, especially within heavy industrial power generation contexts.
Advancement often leads to senior management or technical director roles overseeing multi-plant engineering projects. Exposure to cutting-edge decarbonization and renewable energy initiatives in Chicago’s robust industrial market further enhances progression prospects.
Sargent & Lundy stands out by integrating award-winning benefits with a strong emphasis on peer learning and mentorship. Their commitment to innovation in power generation and decarbonization technologies provides a dynamic environment for technical leadership and career development.
The company promotes a collaborative culture with hybrid work schedules and encourages knowledge sharing across engineering communities. This fosters a balanced environment where leadership is exercised not just in technical tasks but also in mentoring and cross-office coordination.
Compensation typically ranges from $116,620 to $179,890 annually, reflecting the role’s seniority and technical demands. This package is complemented by comprehensive benefits and discretionary bonuses, aligning with Chicago's competitive energy sector market.
A PE (Professional Engineer) license is often essential, especially for lead roles in Owner’s Engineering Support. Additional credentials related to gas turbine systems or power plant design can enhance employability given Chicago’s industrial standards.
Chicago’s extensive industrial base and ongoing power infrastructure upgrades drive strong demand for seasoned mechanical engineers. Candidates with expertise in combined cycle and gas turbine technologies tend to be highly sought after in this competitive market.
Yes, the hybrid model requires in-office presence three days a week, balancing remote work flexibility with collaborative onsite engagement. Considering Chicago’s traffic and public transit options is important for managing daily commute effectively.
Managing multidisciplinary teams across design phases and ensuring timely integration of mechanical systems require strong leadership and communication skills. Navigating regional regulatory standards and supplier coordination also adds complexity to project delivery.