ACE Associate Intern - Nuclear (Summer 2026)

Sargent & Lundy•Chicago, IL

About The Position

As an ACE Associate Intern, you will be assigned to work on a project team and assist the engineering team members in the execution of their project work. These projects may involve the design of new and/or modifications/upgrades to existing power plant or industrial facility systems and components. Working under the direction of senior engineers, this position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your academic background in mechanical engineering in one or more of the following areas: Assist in the preparation of engineering calculations, drawings and specifications Work on a variety of tasks associated with project reporting, such as tracking and evaluating project activities, project progress, and associated data. In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools: You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs. Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results. 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!

Requirements

Active enrollment in a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering with a strong academic background and coursework in mechanical systems analysis, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and/or heat transfer
Proficiency with MS Office applications
Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Nice To Haves

Enrollment in an ABET-accredited engineering program is preferred
Previous participation in the Chicago ACE program
Prior, related internship or co-op experience
An understanding of the practical application of mechanical engineering principles
Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation
Additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems

Responsibilities

Assist the engineering team members in the execution of their project work
Assist in the preparation of engineering calculations, drawings and specifications
Work on a variety of tasks associated with project reporting, such as tracking and evaluating project activities, project progress, and associated data
Solve problems using modern tools, data, automation, and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs
Build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results