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Mechanical Engineer Consultant 2 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Richmond, VA, 23060
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 14 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 nuclear industry. You will work on major systems, equipment and plant process in the following areas:
- Perform consulting level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry.
- Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
- Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates.
- Manage resources/resource loading and develop estimates for task completion and budget development.
- Review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink, and plant hazards to support client recommendations and reviews.
- Review task reports and equipment evaluations that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
- Review equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to client needs to support the proposed power uprate.
- Evaluate vendor bids from a technical perspective.
- Interface with vendors to perform document reviews, ensure equipment compliance with specifications and needs of the plant.
- 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 role offers a hybrid work arrangement. You will spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.
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+ 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:
- Power Uprates (EPU/SPU/MUR)
- Power Uprate pinch point assessments and/or task reports
- Turbine / Generator / AVR / Exciter Refurbishments
- Heat Exchanger Replacement (FWH/MSR/TFP)
- Isophase Bus Duct
- Transformer/Switchyard
- NSSS Systems
- Licensing Application
- 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
$142,710.00 - $215,440.00Transparency 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.
Richmond, VA
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Frequently asked questions
Mechanical Engineer Consultant 2 roles focused on power uprates demand advanced expertise in nuclear power systems, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. Unlike typical mechanical engineering positions, this job involves detailed assessments of nuclear plant equipment, safety compliance, and power output optimization specific to nuclear facilities.
Emphasizing knowledge in nuclear power uprate methodologies (EPU/SPU/MUR), heat exchanger replacements, turbine refurbishments, and familiarity with nuclear codes and safety standards will boost your application. Strong skills in technical report writing and numerical problem solving are also critical for this senior consultant role.
Yes, senior consulting roles in nuclear power engineering open pathways to project leadership, technical management, or specialized licensing expertise. Gaining experience in emerging technologies like SMRs and advanced reactor tech can accelerate career growth and provide opportunities for global project involvement.
Sargent & Lundy supports continuous professional growth through mentorship programs, exposure to cutting-edge nuclear projects, and encouragement of licensure achievements. Their award-winning culture fosters innovation and offers resources that enhance skills in nuclear power plant design and safety compliance.
The company enables a balanced hybrid schedule with three days onsite in Richmond and two days remote, promoting collaboration on complex nuclear power uprate projects while accommodating flexible work-life integration tailored to engineering consultants' needs.
Sargent & Lundy offers a competitive salary between $142,710 and $215,440 for this role, reflecting the senior expertise required in nuclear engineering. The package often includes bonuses and comprehensive benefits, aligning with Richmond's market standards for specialized mechanical engineers.
Richmond's proximity to key energy infrastructure drives steady demand for nuclear engineering consultants, especially those skilled in power uprates. Competition is moderate, favoring candidates with extensive experience in nuclear systems, licensing, and technical project leadership.
Familiarity with NRC regulations, ASME nuclear codes, and regional safety compliance standards is crucial. While PE licensure is valued, understanding local environmental and occupational safety guidelines in Virginia enhances a consultant's effectiveness in nuclear power projects.
This role critically evaluates equipment sizing, heat balance calculations, and vendor compliance to optimize power output while maintaining stringent safety margins. The consultant’s technical reviews and task management ensure that uprate initiatives meet both performance goals and regulatory standards.
Mentorship is a key responsibility, fostering skill development and knowledge transfer in nuclear engineering practices. Leading junior staff enhances project quality, supports team capacity building, and ensures continuity of expertise in complex power uprate assignments.