Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Surry, VA, 23883
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Description
This will be an onsite field support position at Surry Nuclear Generating Station.
You will be involved in nuclear power plant systems design, including preparation or review of:
- Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants
- 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
In addition, you will have the opportunity to:
- Develop engineering cost estimates for small to mid-sized client-requested work scopes
- Visit client office and/or plant site locations to interface with the client and make presentations related to engineering tasks and status
- Lead engineering project teams
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
- A minimum of 10 years of experience in the power industry
- Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants
- PE license is beneficial, but not required
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 position requires deep familiarity with nuclear power plant codes and standards, ensuring all mechanical designs and modifications strictly comply with safety regulations at Surry Nuclear Station. Your mechanical expertise directly supports reliable and secure plant operation while adhering to industry compliance.
Mechanical Engineers assess vendor bids and prepare technical specifications that influence procurement, ensuring selected equipment meets stringent nuclear performance and safety criteria. This responsibility is vital for maintaining operational integrity and supporting efficient nuclear plant modifications.
Expertise in nuclear-specific mechanical codes, experience with plant system modifications, and knowledge of functional mechanical drawings set this role apart. Ten-plus years in power engineering and PE licensure enhance proficiency in handling complex nuclear facility challenges.
Surry's proximity to nuclear facilities increases demand for engineers skilled in nuclear plant systems. However, competition is moderated by the niche expertise required, making advanced qualifications and industry experience key differentiators for job seekers locally.
Given Surry's rural location, candidates often evaluate transportation options and travel time. Onsite roles require daily presence, so proximity or reliable commuting solutions are essential to maintain schedule adherence and onsite project engagement.
Career growth often leads to senior leadership roles overseeing multiple engineering teams or projects, including involvement in advanced reactor technology initiatives. Expanding expertise in nuclear design and regulatory affairs can also open doors to strategic technical management.
Sargent & Lundy offers exposure to cutting-edge nuclear technologies like SMRs and plant digital modernization, combined with award-winning benefits. The company fosters a culture of innovation and sustainability, enhancing both career development and work-life balance.
Sargent & Lundy's salary range of $116,620 to $179,890 aligns competitively with Virginia's nuclear engineering market, reflecting the role's seniority and expertise. This package, paired with comprehensive benefits, positions it favorably against regional peers.
You will oversee onsite technical evaluations, review mechanical drawings, and lead modification projects to support nuclear plant operations at Surry. The role demands hands-on collaboration with clients and vendors, ensuring project deliverables meet rigorous nuclear standards.
Working within a nuclear setting mandates meticulous attention to safety, regulatory compliance, and precision in engineering analyses. Daily activities center on reviewing system modifications, preparing technical documentation, and facilitating smooth plant operations amid strict oversight.