Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy•Charlotte, NC

13d•$118,023 - $180,313•Hybrid

About The Position

Sargent & Lundy is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to support nuclear power uprate projects for electric power generation clients. The role involves consulting-level engineering for power uprates and work on major systems, equipment, and plant processes. The position follows a hybrid schedule with in-office work three days per week. It is part of the Nuclear Power Group, which supports nuclear engineering, design, licensing, plant life extensions, digital modernization, reactor projects, and other nuclear initiatives.

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.
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: 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 or switchyard; NSSS systems; or licensing applications.
Excellent technical report writing skills.
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.
Ability to work in the office three days per week under the hybrid schedule.
Must not require employer sponsorship for U.S. work authorization.

Nice To Haves

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program, with a strong academic background.
Professional Engineer (PE) license.
Experience with AI, automation, programming, or similar technologies where relevant to the role.

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 selection in response to client needs and to support 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 tasks.
Independently review work performed by others, including calculations and drawing preparation.
Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction.
Prepare calculations and/or reports for assignments.