Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 (Nuclear Plant Analysis) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy•Palm Beach Gardens, FL

11d•$118,023 - $180,313•Hybrid

About The Position

Sargent & Lundy is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 to support nuclear power uprate projects in its Mechanical Analysis Engineering group. The role involves leading licensing-basis system and component evaluations and applying thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering expertise to consulting work for nuclear clients. The engineer prepares and reviews calculations and reports covering heat balances, power-train pumps, heat exchangers, condensers and heat sinks, and plant hazards. The position also evaluates and selects equipment, develops engineering proposals and cost estimates, presents technical discussions and project updates to clients and project teams, and mentors junior engineers. Additional work includes independently reviewing calculations and drawings, attending client meetings, and conducting site walkdowns. The role follows a hybrid schedule requiring in-office work three days per week.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) 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: balance-of-plant system and component evaluations; pinch-point assessments and/or task reports; heat balance; power-train pumps, heat exchangers, and condenser/heat sink; or circulating water and ultimate heat sinks.
Excellent technical report-writing skills; assignments require preparation of calculations and/or reports.
Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology, including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to 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.
Must already be authorized to work in the United States; the employer does not sponsor work authorization for this position.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Develop and lead licensing-basis system and component evaluations for nuclear power uprate projects.
Perform consulting-level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry.
Prepare and review calculations related to heat balances, power-train pumps, heat exchangers, condensers and heat sinks, and plant hazards.
Prepare task reports and equipment evaluations that clearly present technical information and meet client requirements.
Perform equipment sizing, optimization evaluations, and equipment selection to support proposed power uprates.
Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates.
Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering tasks.
Independently review work performed by others, including calculations and drawing preparation.
Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and support client satisfaction.