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

Sargent & Lundy•Richland, WA

About The Position

This entry-level position has a target start date of summer 2027 and offers the opportunity to apply and expand academic knowledge in structural engineering. The engineer will work with engineers and designers across disciplines on new nuclear facilities, nuclear plant betterment, and related modifications, serving clients on a range of projects. The role applies knowledge of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design. It includes preparing design calculations, developing specifications, and supporting drawing development. Using computer tools, the engineer will analyze and design steel frames, connections, concrete members, equipment and piping supports, and foundations, including analyses for wind and seismic loading. The role also provides training and mentorship from experienced structural design engineers. Travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant sites for construction coordination and design verification may be possible. Sargent & Lundy’s Nuclear Power Group works in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, 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 does not offer U.S. work authorization sponsorship. Compensation is listed as $62,998–$90,586, with eligible positions also receiving a comprehensive benefits package and potential eligibility for a yearly discretionary bonus.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Structural/Civil Engineering or Architectural Engineering, with a strong academic background and interest in behavior of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design.
Coursework in steel and concrete design.
Knowledge of practical structural engineering applications, including loads analysis for structural supports and design integrity.
Understanding of applying structural engineering principles, techniques, and procedures to project design.
Knowledge of structural design techniques, tools, and principles used to produce technical plans, drawings, and models.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Proficiency with MS Office applications.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s or master’s degree from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program.
Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and designation as an Engineer in Training.
Experience writing and providing supporting documentation for structural engineering calculations.
Familiarity with structural analysis software such as MathCad, STAAD PRO, SAP2000, SAFE, GT STRUDL, or ANSYS.
Familiarity with design codes and standards such as IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, N690, ACI 318, and ACI 349.
Interest in learning and effectively using emerging technologies where relevant; experience with AI, automation, programming, or similar technologies is valued but not required.

Responsibilities

Prepare structural design calculations.
Develop specifications and support designers with drawing development.
Perform structural analysis and design of steel frames, connections, concrete members, equipment and piping supports, and foundations.
Conduct structural analyses that include wind and seismic loading.
Collaborate with engineers and designers from multiple disciplines on nuclear facility design, plant betterment, and associated modifications.
Participate in project engineering assignments with training and mentorship from experienced structural design engineers.
Potentially travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant sites for construction coordination and field verification of designs.