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

Sargent & Lundy•Chicago, IL

About The Position

This entry-level Mechanical Engineer role in the Nuclear Power Group has a target start date in early 2027. The position applies knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering to support client recommendations and reviews. The engineer prepares calculations, specifications, and technical reports; performs equipment sizing, optimization evaluations, and equipment selection; and contributes to the design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems as part of project teams. Travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews, and to plant sites for construction coordination and field verification, may be required. Sargent & Lundy’s Nuclear Power Group works on nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, including small modular reactors, advanced reactor technology, commercial reactor restart projects, life extensions and digital modernization of existing plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives, and international nuclear new-build projects. The company emphasizes safety, innovation, and sustainability. The role requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, a strong academic background and interest in relevant thermal and fluid disciplines, and strong technical report-writing, problem-solving, communication, and MS Office skills. Sargent & Lundy does not sponsor U.S. work authorization for this position.

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.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without employer sponsorship.

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 supporting documentation for Mechanical Engineering calculations.
Coursework in power engineering, turbomachinery, energy conversion, or technology and innovation.
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 evaluation, and equipment selection in response to project needs.
Support project teams with other mechanical engineers in system engineering activities.
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.