Mechanical Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear (January 2027)

Sargent & Lundy•Chattanooga, TN

7d•$62,998 - $90,586

About The Position

Sargent & Lundy is hiring an entry-level Mechanical Engineer for its Nuclear Power Group, with a target start date in early 2027. The role applies knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering to nuclear power projects. The engineer prepares calculations, specifications, and technical reports supporting client recommendations and reviews, and conducts equipment sizing, optimization evaluations, and selection based on project needs. Working with project teams and other Mechanical Engineers, the engineer contributes to system engineering, including the design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems. The role may involve travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant sites for construction coordination and design field verification. The Nuclear Power Group works on nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, including small modular reactors, advanced reactor technology, reactor restarts, existing-plant life extensions and digital modernization, coal-to-nuclear conversions, and international nuclear new-build projects. Employees may use data, automation, AI, and other digital tools where relevant, while applying professional judgment and reviewing technology-assisted work. Experience with AI, automation, or programming is valued where relevant but is not required unless specified elsewhere. The listed compensation range is $62,998–$90,586. Eligible positions include a base salary or hourly rate and a benefits package; employees may also be eligible for a yearly discretionary bonus. The company states that it does not sponsor U.S. work authorization for this position.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, General Engineering, or Systems Engineering, with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, power engineering, turbomachinery, thermal systems, and energy conversion.
Knowledge of practical mechanical engineering and technology, including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to project design.
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles used to produce technical plans, fabrication drawings, and models.
Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving.
Proficiency with MS Office applications.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
The employer does not sponsor U.S. work authorization for this position.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s or master’s degree from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program.
Related engineering internship or co-op experience.
Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and designation as an Engineer in Training.
Experience writing and providing supporting documentation for Mechanical Engineering calculations.
Coursework in power engineering, turbomachinery, thermal systems, or energy conversion.
Interest in learning and effectively using emerging technologies where relevant; experience with AI, automation, or programming is valued but not required unless identified elsewhere in the job description.

Responsibilities

Apply knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering.
Prepare calculations, specifications, and technical reports to support client recommendations and reviews.
Conduct equipment sizing, optimization evaluations, and equipment selection in response to project needs.
Support project teams with system engineering, including design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems.
Potentially travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews, and to plant sites for construction coordination and field verification of designs.
Use relevant technology-assisted tools where appropriate, while applying professional judgment and review.