Senior Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Wilmington, DE, 19801
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Description
This is a senior level mechanical engineering position that will provide you with a variety of interesting and challenging responsibilities.
We are looking for candidates with experience in the analysis, design, and licensing requirements of mechanical and nuclear systems and components for nuclear power plants.
You will be involved in nuclear power plant systems design, including preparation or review of:
- Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants
- System and Component Performance specifications
- Functional mechanical drawings and/or drawings for nuclear power plant systems
- Engineering analyses and evaluations to support modifications and operation of plant systems
- Technical specifications and procurement documents for plant equipment
- Vendor bid evaluations for plant equipment
- Studies and options evaluations for modifications to operating nuclear power plants
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
- BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET accredited program
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in the power industry.
- Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants
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 Mechanical Engineers in nuclear power need deep knowledge of nuclear codes, safety standards, and licensing processes, unlike general mechanical roles. This specialization demands familiarity with reactor components and regulatory compliance crucial for nuclear plant operations, setting it apart from typical mechanical engineering positions.
Mechanical Engineer 1 roles in nuclear sectors emphasize skills in system licensing, nuclear safety regulations, and performance specification reviews. Proficiency in handling mechanical drawings for nuclear components and vendor bid evaluations under stringent standards differentiates this position from broader mechanical engineering careers.
Wilmington's proximity to key nuclear facilities and a strong industry presence offers senior engineers chances to lead innovative plant modifications, participate in advanced reactor projects, and influence clean energy initiatives. The area's market supports upward mobility through increased responsibilities and specialization.
Wilmington's nuclear sector is moderately competitive, with demand driven by ongoing plant modernization and nuclear new-build projects. Candidates with 5+ years and ABET-accredited degrees stand out, but local hiring favors those with thorough regulatory knowledge and prior power industry experience.
Sargent & Lundy provides award-winning healthcare plans, paid time off, and flexible work arrangements tailored for senior nuclear engineers. Their benefits also include tuition assistance and professional licensure bonuses, fostering career growth while supporting employees’ well-being in a demanding nuclear engineering environment.
At Sargent & Lundy, engineers engage directly with cutting-edge nuclear technologies and international projects, benefiting from a culture recognized for compensation excellence. The company’s focus on sustainability and innovation creates a dynamic atmosphere unlike more traditional, rigid nuclear engineering employers.
The salary for this senior role ranges from approximately $82,380 to $125,860 annually. This reflects Wilmington’s market rates for experienced nuclear mechanical engineers, combined with comprehensive benefits and discretionary bonuses that enhance the total compensation package.
Employers in Wilmington highly value ABET-accredited mechanical engineering degrees and familiarity with nuclear regulatory codes like ASME and NRC standards. While work authorization sponsorship is generally not provided, professional licensure such as PE can further enhance a candidate's prospects in this market.
Engineers must navigate strict safety regulations, ensure precise mechanical design adaptations, and coordinate vendor evaluations under tight timelines. The complexity of integrating new systems without disrupting plant operations demands meticulous analysis and adherence to licensing requirements.
This position involves supporting design and licensing efforts for innovative small modular reactors and advanced reactors, blending traditional mechanical engineering expertise with forward-looking energy solutions. Engineers contribute to pioneering projects that shape the future of carbon-free nuclear energy.