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

Sargent & Lundy•Chattanooga, TN

About The Position

Sargent & Lundy is hiring an entry-level Mechanical Engineer for its Nuclear Power Group, with a target start date of early 2027. The role applies knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering to nuclear power projects. The engineer will prepare calculations, specifications, and technical reports to support client recommendations and reviews, and perform equipment sizing, optimization evaluations, and equipment selection based on project needs. Working with project teams and other Mechanical Engineers, the role contributes to the engineering, design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems. Travel may be required to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant sites for construction coordination and field verification of designs. Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group works on nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, including small modular reactors, advanced reactor technology, reactor restart projects, existing plant life extensions and digital modernization, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives, and international nuclear new-build projects. The company describes its work as supporting clean, carbon-free energy and reducing emissions. The compensation range is $62,998–$90,586. Eligible positions include a comprehensive benefits package, and individuals may also be eligible for a yearly discretionary bonus. The company does not sponsor U.S. work authorization for this position.

Requirements

A BS or MS 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 applications of mechanical engineering and technology, including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to project design.
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in producing 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.
U.S. work authorization sponsorship is not provided for this position.

Nice To Haves

A BS or MS degree from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program.
Related engineering internship or co-op work experience.
Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) 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 to the role; experience with AI, automation, programming, or similar technologies is valued but not required.

Responsibilities

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 other Mechanical Engineers.
Participate in system engineering, including the design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems.
Travel, as needed, to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant sites for construction coordination and field verification of designs.