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

Sargent & Lundy•Chicago, IL

About The Position

This entry-level structural engineering position has a target start date of early 2027 and offers the opportunity to apply and expand academic knowledge in a professional setting. The engineer will collaborate with engineers and designers from multiple disciplines on new nuclear facilities, nuclear plant betterment, and related modifications, working on projects for a range of clients. The role involves applying knowledge of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design. The engineer will prepare design calculations, develop specifications, support drawing development, and use computer tools to analyze and design steel frames, connections, concrete members, equipment and piping supports, and foundations. Structural analyses will include wind and seismic loading conditions. The position includes training and mentorship from experienced structural design engineers while carrying out project engineering assignments. Travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews, and to plant sites for construction coordination and field verification, may be available.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science 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 the practical application of structural engineering, 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.
The employer does not sponsor employees for work authorization in the United States for this position.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science 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 to the role; experience with AI, automation, programming, or similar technologies is valued but not required.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with engineers and designers from various disciplines on new nuclear facilities, nuclear plant betterment, and associated modifications.
Prepare structural design calculations and develop specifications.
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 involving wind and seismic loading conditions.
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.