Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy•Palm Beach Gardens, FL

13d•$118,023 - $180,313•Hybrid

About The Position

Sargent & Lundy is hiring a Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 to support nuclear power uprate projects. The role involves consulting-level engineering work for clients seeking to increase the output of existing power plants. It covers major plant systems, equipment, and processes, including technical reviews, equipment evaluations, calculations, proposals, cost estimates, and project planning. The position also includes leading and mentoring junior engineers, reviewing work produced by others, and engaging with clients and vendors. This position follows a hybrid schedule requiring in-office work three days per week.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program, with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
At least 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: power uprates (EPU/SPU/MUR); power uprate pinch point assessments and/or task reports; turbine, generator, AVR, or exciter refurbishments; heat exchanger replacement (FWH/MSR/TFP); isophase bus duct; transformer/switchyard; NSSS systems; or licensing applications.
Excellent technical report-writing skills; assignments require preparation of calculations and/or reports.
Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology, including systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment used in project design.
Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving.
Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations applicable to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants.
Proficiency with MS Office applications.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program, with a strong academic background.
Professional Engineer (PE) license.
Interest in learning and effectively using emerging technologies relevant to the role; experience with AI, automation, programming, or similar technologies is valued but not required.

Responsibilities

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 and resource loading, and develop task-completion estimates and budgets.
Review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condensers and heat sinks, and plant hazards to support client recommendations and reviews.
Review task reports and equipment evaluations to ensure technical information is clear, concise, and meets client requirements.
Review equipment sizing, optimization evaluations, and selections in response to client needs and proposed power uprates.
Evaluate vendor bids from a technical perspective.
Interface with vendors to review documents and ensure equipment complies with specifications and plant needs.
Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks.
Perform independent reviews of others’ work, including calculations and drawing preparation.
Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate project scope and ensure client satisfaction.