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

Sargent & Lundy•Phoenix, AZ

About The Position

This entry-level Mechanical Engineer role in the Nuclear Power Group has a target start date of Summer 2027. The engineer will apply knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering to nuclear power projects. Work includes preparing calculations, specifications, and technical reports to support client recommendations and reviews; performing equipment sizing, optimization evaluations, and selection; and supporting system engineering through the design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems. The position 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 a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability. The target compensation range is $62,998–$90,586. Eligible positions include a base salary or hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package; employees may also be eligible for a yearly discretionary bonus. Sargent & Lundy does not sponsor employees for 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.
Strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, power engineering, turbomachinery, thermal systems, and energy conversion.
Knowledge of applying mechanical engineering and technology, including 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.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.; the employer does not sponsor 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 Engineer in Training designation.
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 based on project needs.
Support project teams with system engineering, including the design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems.
Potentially travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews.
Potentially travel to plant sites for construction coordination and field verification of designs.