Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 (Nuclear Plant Analysis) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy•Charlotte, NC

8d•$118,023 - $180,313•Hybrid

About The Position

Sargent & Lundy is hiring a Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 for its Nuclear Power Group. The role supports nuclear power uprate projects by developing and leading licensing-basis system and component evaluations, performing consulting-level engineering, and preparing and reviewing calculations and reports. The work applies thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering to major systems, equipment, and plant processes. The engineer will evaluate equipment and systems, develop recommendations for clients, prepare proposals and cost estimates, and communicate technical discussions and project status to clients and project teams. The role also includes leading and mentoring junior staff, independently reviewing calculations and drawings, and attending client meetings and site walkdowns. The position 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.
10 or more 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, condenser/heat sink; circulating water; or 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 have U.S. work authorization; 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 to the role; 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 nuclear-industry power uprates.
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 present technical information clearly and concisely to 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 technical tasks.
Perform independent reviews of work by others, including calculations and drawing preparation.
Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction.