Project Engineer or Geologist - Nuclear

S&ME Inc.; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Plans

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

401(k) Retirement Plan

Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO)

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

S&ME Inc. is seeking an experienced Project Engineer or Geologist in Knoxville, TN, with a focus on nuclear projects. This role involves providing technical expertise and project management across various sectors like civil and environmental projects while adhering to strict quality assurance standards.

The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of relevant experience and a degree in engineering or geology. The position offers comprehensive benefits, including medical plans, a wellness program, and a 401(k) plan.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in geotechnical investigations or engineering projects.
• Experience with nuclear projects is a plus.
• Consulting experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Field coordination of drilling operations.
• In-depth data analysis for project success.
• Preparation of project proposals and reports.
• Creating detailed reports with findings.
• Providing project support and updates.

Skills

Verbal and written communication skills

Ability to travel for work

Outdoor working ability

Physical strength for lifting equipment

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, geology, or related field

Job description

Project Engineer or Geologist - Nuclear

Requisition Number: 2026-2690-02

S&ME is seeking an experienced engineer or geologist with an interest in providing technical expertise and project management skills supporting a variety of civil, environmental, and geotechnical projects in the nuclear sector, as well as projects in the Commercial, Industrial, and Energy markets.

In support of high-profile nuclear projects, this position would also serve as a Project Quality Assurance Manager (PQAM) or Quality Assurance Representative (QAR) within the S&ME Nuclear Quality Assurance Program. Projects could include site selection and due diligence, field exploration, and/or construction quality assurance services supporting new nuclear facility permitting, licensing, and construction. Nuclear facilities generically include traditional light water reactors, small modular reactors, uranium enrichment facilities, and fuel fabrication facilities.

This individual has the flexibility to be in Knoxville, Charlotte, Raleigh, Columbia, Atlanta, Greenville-Spartanburg, and Columbus.

What You Will Do

As a project engineer or geologist, you will travel throughout our footprint, gaining hands‑on experience on complex projects that will challenge your technical expertise, project management skills, and organizational abilities—all while working alongside industry‑leading professionals. Responsibilities could include:

• Field coordination of drilling operations to collect soil samples, monitoring drill rig efforts to obtain samples, classifying soils, and preparing boring logs.
• In‑depth data analysis and decision‑making focused on project success.
• Preparation of project proposals and reports to confirm that client expectations and needs are met.
• Creating detailed reports with findings, insights, and recommendations for project development.
• Providing project and client support by interacting effectively on project updates and engaging with leadership in business development events.

As a PQAM or QAR within the S&ME Nuclear Quality Assurance Program, you would:

• Collaborate closely with field staff, engineers, and clients to adhere to our Nuclear Quality Assurance (NQA‑1) program while supporting the continued growth of the nuclear sector.
• Develop, implement, and maintain QA program procedures and documentation in accordance with strict project and regulatory requirements.
• Lead and coordinate QA efforts across multidisciplinary teams, contractors, and stakeholders.
• Conduct on‑site audits, inspections, and assessments to ensure compliance with project specifications, quality standards, and regulatory expectations.
• Lead or collaborate on off‑site audits, inspections, and surveillances of subcontractors and vendors, including development of Commercial Grade Dedication plans.
• Interface confidently with clients, regulators, and internal leadership in environments subject to continuous oversight and review.
• Provide clear, accurate, and timely reporting on QA performance, risks, and corrective actions.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a motivated professional with a quality assurance background who is eager to either gain or advance their knowledge and experience in nuclear projects, while also being willing to support projects outside the nuclear sector as project workload demands. This role is ideal for a detail‑oriented individual who enjoys traveling for extended periods of time and working non‑traditional hours. You thrive in highly regulated and demanding project environments while maintaining exceptional quality and compliance standards.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering, geology, environmental, construction, or related engineering field is a plus
• Experience:
  • 5+ years of relevant experience in geotechnical investigations, construction, and/or engineering projects
  • Experience with nuclear projects is a plus
  • Consulting experience is a plus
• Key Abilities:
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to travel and work a rotational schedule: 10 days on / 4 days off during nuclear project duration (returning home between rotations)
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain
  • Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 12+ hours)
  • Routinely lift and carry 40‑50 lbs. of equipment and samples

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• Wellness Program - $50 off per month on your 2027 premiums!
• Pet Insurance
• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
• Paid Maternity & Parental Leave
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs
• Credential Incentive Program - get rewarded for advancing your skills
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Recognition Program
• Company Vehicle & Fuel Card - for project-based roles
• $2,000 Employee Referral Bonuses - and more!

This full‑time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk‑ins are accepted.