Senior Mechanical Engineer 2 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy•Chicago, IL

28d•$100,019 - $152,807•Hybrid

About The Position

Sargent & Lundy is hiring a Senior Mechanical Engineer 2 for its Mechanical Analysis Engineering group, supporting nuclear power uprate projects. The role involves evaluating major systems, equipment, and plant processes to help existing power plants increase output. You will apply knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering to perform consulting-level work and develop licensing-basis evaluations. The position includes preparing and reviewing calculations, equipment evaluations, and task reports; performing equipment sizing and optimization; and presenting technical discussions and project status to clients and project teams. The role also involves attending client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and support client satisfaction. The work arrangement is hybrid, with three days per week in the office and two days working remotely. Sargent & Lundy’s Nuclear Power Group works on nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, including plant life extensions, digital modernization, reactor technology, plant restarts, coal-to-nuclear initiatives, and international new-build projects. The company describes its work as supporting clean, carbon-free energy and emissions reduction.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program, with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
At least 7 years of experience in the nuclear power industry.
Experience with nuclear power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects.
Experience and practical knowledge in one or more of the following: balance-of-plant system and component evaluations; pinch point assessments and/or task reports; heat balance; power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink; or circulating water and ultimate heat sinks.
Excellent technical report-writing skills; assignments require preparation of calculations and/or reports.
Knowledge of applying mechanical engineering and technology, including systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment, to project design.
Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving.
Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations applicable to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Must already have U.S. work authorization; the company does not sponsor work authorization for this position.

Nice To Haves

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program, with a strong academic background.
Professional Engineer (PE) license.
Interest in learning and effectively using emerging technologies relevant to the role; experience with AI, automation, programming, or similar technologies is valued but not required.

Responsibilities

Develop and lead licensing-basis system and component evaluations for nuclear power uprate projects.
Perform consulting-level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry.
Prepare and review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condensers and heat sinks, and plant hazards.
Prepare task reports and equipment evaluations that present technical information clearly and concisely to meet client requirements.
Perform equipment sizing, optimization evaluations, and equipment selection in response to client needs and to support proposed power uprates.
Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction.