Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear

Sargent Lundy; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 116,620 - 179,890; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Chicago is seeking an experienced nuclear power engineer to lead evaluations for power uprate projects. The role demands expertise in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics, along with strong technical writing skills. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing three days in the office and two days remote. Ideal candidates should have over 10 years of experience in the nuclear power sector.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in the nuclear power industry.
• Experience with nuclear power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects.
• Strong background in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead licensing basis evaluations for nuclear power uprates.
• Prepare calculations and reports related to power plant systems.
• Interface with clients and project teams to discuss project status.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Heat transfer

Fluid mechanics

Technical report writing

Numerical computations

MS Office proficiency

Communication skills

Education

BSME from ABET-approved program

MSME preferred

Job description

Description

Our electric power generation clients are seeking to increase the power output of their existing power plants to meet the electric demands. This is expanding work in the Mechanical Analysis Engineering group.

You will work on major systems, equipment and plant process in the following areas:

• Develop and lead licensing basis system and component evaluations for nuclear power uprate projects.
• This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and experience in power plant engineering.
• Perform consulting level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry.
• Prepare and review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink, and plant hazards to support client recommendations and reviews.
• Prepare task reports and equipment evaluations that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
• Perform equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to client needs to support the proposed power uprate.
• Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
• Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates.
• Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks.
• Perform independent reviews of work performed by others including calculations and drawing preparation.
• Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction.

This role offers a hybrid work arrangement. You'll spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.

Qualifications

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

• This position requires a BSME from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
• 10+ 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 areas:
  • Balance of plant system and component evaluations
  • Pinch point assessments and/or task reports
  • Heat balance
  • Power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink
  • Circulating Water and Ultimate Heat Sinks
• All assignments require the preparation of calculations and/or reports, and excellent technical report writing skills are essential.
• Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design.
• Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving.
• Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants.
• Proficiency with MS Office applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Valued but not required skills and experience:

• MSME from an ABET accredited program with a strong academic background
• PE License

Compensation Range

$116,620.00 - $179,890.00

Equal Opportunity

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.