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

Sargent & Lundy•Chicago, IL

7d•$62,998 - $90,586

About The Position

This entry-level Mechanical Engineer position in Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group has 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 prepares calculations, specifications, and technical reports to support client recommendations and reviews; conducts equipment sizing, optimization evaluations, and equipment selection; and supports system engineering through 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 field verification of designs. Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group works on nuclear engineering, design, and licensing projects, 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 position requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, a strong academic background and interest in relevant thermal disciplines, and technical and communication skills. U.S. work authorization sponsorship is not offered for this position. The compensation range is $62,998–$90,586, and eligible positions may include a yearly discretionary bonus. The role offers comprehensive healthcare, paid time off, and other benefits.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and thermal systems.
Knowledge of the practical application of 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.
Excellent technical report writing skills; assignments require preparation of calculations and reports.
Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving.
Proficiency with MS Office applications.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
The company does not sponsor employees for U.S. work authorization for this position.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science 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 support documentation for Mechanical Engineering calculations.
Coursework in power engineering, turbomachinery, 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

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 evaluation, and equipment selection in response to project needs.
Support project teams in system engineering, including the 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.