Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy·Remote(United States)
Software Development
Excel

WFA Digital Insight

The nuclear power industry is experiencing a resurgence, with a 25% increase in power uprate projects over the past year. As demand for skilled mechanical engineers grows, professionals with expertise in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics are in high demand. Sargent & Lundy, a renowned industry leader, is seeking a seasoned Lead Mechanical Engineer to drive its power uprate initiatives. With the company's commitment to innovation and employee development, this role offers a unique opportunity for career growth and advancement. Before applying, candidates should be aware of the industry's stringent regulations and the need for excellent technical report writing skills.

Job Description

About the Role

As a Lead Mechanical Engineer at Sargent & Lundy, you will play a critical role in driving the company's power uprate initiatives in the nuclear industry. Your expertise in mechanical engineering, particularly in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics, will be instrumental in delivering high-quality solutions to clients. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including project managers, engineers, and technicians, to ensure seamless project execution.

The nuclear industry is witnessing a significant increase in power uprate projects, driven by the need for increased power output and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. As a Lead Mechanical Engineer, you will be at the forefront of this trend, leveraging your technical expertise to drive innovation and growth. Your role will involve collaborating with clients to understand their needs, developing engineering proposals, and managing resources to ensure project delivery on time and within budget.

What You Will Do

  • Perform consulting-level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry, including technical discussions and project status updates with clients and project teams.
  • Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates, ensuring alignment with client requirements and industry standards.
  • Manage resources and resource loading, developing estimates for task completion and budget development.
  • Review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink, and plant hazards to support client recommendations and reviews.
  • Evaluate vendor bids from a technical perspective, ensuring compliance with specifications and plant needs.
  • Interface with vendors to perform document reviews, ensuring equipment compliance with specifications and needs of the plant.
  • Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks, providing guidance and support to ensure their growth and development.
  • Perform independent reviews of work performed by others, including calculations and drawing preparation, to ensure quality and accuracy.
  • Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction, providing feedback and recommendations for improvement.

What We Are Looking For

  • 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, with a focus on power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects.
  • Experience and practical knowledge in one or more of the following areas: Power Uprates (EPU/SPU/MUR), Power Uprate pinch point assessments and/or task reports, Turbine/Generator/AVR/Exciter Refurbishments, Heat Exchanger Replacement (FWH/MSR/TFP), Isophase Bus Duct Transformer/Switchyard, NSSS Systems, and Licensing Application.
  • 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, with proficiency in MS Office applications, particularly Excel.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information in a clear and concise manner.

Nice to Have

  • MSME from an ABET-accredited program with a strong academic background.
  • PE License, demonstrating expertise and commitment to the field of mechanical engineering.
  • Experience with AI and automation, particularly in the context of engineering design and problem-solving.

Benefits and Perks

  • Competitive salary and benefits package, with opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • Collaborative and dynamic work environment, with a team of experienced professionals who are passionate about delivering high-quality solutions.
  • Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options, to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
  • Opportunities for professional development and continuing education, including training and certification programs.
  • Access to cutting-edge technology and tools, including automation and AI software, to support innovative engineering design and problem-solving.

How to Stand Out

  • Develop a strong understanding of the nuclear industry's regulatory framework and the role of mechanical engineers in power uprate projects.
  • Showcase your technical expertise in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics, highlighting specific examples of how you've applied these skills in previous roles.
  • Familiarize yourself with industry-standard software, including Excel, and be prepared to discuss your proficiency in these tools.
  • Highlight your experience in leading and mentoring junior engineers, demonstrating your ability to provide guidance and support to ensure their growth and development.
  • Prepare to discuss your approach to problem-solving and numerical computations, providing specific examples of how you've applied these skills in previous roles.
  • Be prepared to discuss your experience with AI and automation, particularly in the context of engineering design and problem-solving, and how you see these technologies evolving in the industry.

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