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; performs equipment sizing, optimization evaluations, and selection; and supports system engineering and 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 values appropriate use of technology, including data, automation, artificial intelligence, and other digital tools where relevant. Employees are expected to exercise professional judgment and review when using technology-assisted tools. Relevant experience with AI, automation, or programming is valued but is not required unless otherwise specified. The company describes its Nuclear Power Group as working across nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, including small modular reactors, advanced reactor technology, plant life extensions, digital modernization, conversion initiatives, and new-build projects.

Requirements

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 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 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.
Work authorization sponsorship in the U.S. is not provided for this position.

Nice To Haves

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.
Relevant experience with AI, automation, programming, or similar technologies.

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 other Mechanical Engineers in system engineering.
Design, modify, and analyze 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.