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Lead Mechanical Engineer Analyst 1 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Cary, NC, 27518
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 4 January 2026
Description
Our electric power generation clients are seeking to increase the power output of their existing power plants to meet the electric demands. This is expanding work in the Mechanical Analysis Engineering group. You will work on major systems, equipment and plant process in the following areas:
- Develop and lead licensing basis system and component evaluations for nuclear power uprate projects.
- This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and experience in power plant engineering.
- Perform consulting level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry.
- Prepare and review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink, and plant hazards to support client recommendations and reviews.
- Prepare task reports and equipment evaluations that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
- Perform equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to client needs to support the proposed power uprate.
- Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
- Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates.
- Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks.
- Perform independent reviews of work performed by others including calculations and drawing preparation.
- Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction.
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:
- This position requires a BSME from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
- 10 or more years of experience in the nuclear power industry.
- Experience with nuclear power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects.
- Experience and practical knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
- Balance of plant system and component evaluations
- Pinch point assessments and/or task reports
- Heat balance
- Power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink
- Circulating Water and Ultimate Heat Sinks
- All assignments require the preparation of calculations and/or reports, and excellent technical report writing skills are essential.
- Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design.
- Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving.
- Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants.
- Proficiency with MS Office applications.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Valued but not required skills and experience:
- MSME from an ABET accredited program with a strong academic background
- 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
$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
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
This role plays a critical part in boosting existing nuclear power plant output by conducting intricate mechanical analyses, optimizing equipment like heat exchangers and pumps, and ensuring compliance with nuclear safety standards. Their expertise directly impacts the plant's operational performance and regulatory adherence.
Candidates typically have a BS in Mechanical Engineering accredited by ABET, with deep knowledge in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer, plus over a decade of nuclear industry experience. Expertise in plant system evaluations and nuclear codes sets them apart.
Progression often leads to senior engineering management, specialized nuclear systems consultant roles, or project leadership in advanced reactor technology. The niche expertise in power uprates opens doors to strategic positions in nuclear plant modernization and regulatory affairs.
Balancing rigorous safety standards with innovative power output enhancements, managing multidisciplinary teams, and navigating client-specific licensing requirements are key challenges. Sargent & Lundy's emphasis on mentorship and technical precision adds complexity to leadership responsibilities.
The company fosters continuous learning via merit scholarships, tuition assistance, and professional licensure bonuses. Their culture encourages knowledge sharing and hands-on involvement in pioneering clean energy projects, ensuring engineers stay ahead in nuclear technology advancements.
The salary range of $116,620 to $179,890 aligns well with industry standards for senior nuclear mechanical engineers in the Cary area, reflecting local market demand, specialized skill requirements, and the company's comprehensive benefits package.
Cary and the surrounding Research Triangle region exhibit steady demand for nuclear engineering professionals, driven by ongoing plant modernization and clean energy initiatives. This area offers a robust job market with competitive hiring rates for specialized nuclear roles.
While a PE license is valued but not mandatory, certifications related to nuclear safety standards and power uprate project management can provide a competitive edge, especially given North Carolina's focus on regulatory compliance and plant performance.
The hybrid model balances on-site collaboration during critical project phases with remote analytical tasks, facilitating flexible yet effective engagement with clients and teams. This approach supports productivity while ensuring necessary hands-on presence for site validations.
Mentorship is a core duty, involving guidance on complex mechanical engineering problems and fostering professional growth within the nuclear power domain. This leadership role emphasizes knowledge transfer to maintain technical excellence across projects.