Description
Sargent & Lundy is seeking a Mechanical Engineer 1 - 3D Modeling to support the development of 3D models and support System Design for nuclear power and other large power projects. This role is intended for early-career candidates with a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering and foundational CAD skills who are interested in learning industry-standard tools and working alongside experienced engineers and designers.
This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering. While supporting project teams with other Mechanical Engineers, you will be involved in system engineering, including the design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems.
You will receive on-the-job training in our tools, standards, and quality processes and will contribute to real projects from day one.
There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs.
Key Responsibilities
Build and update 3D models in coordination with senior designers and engineers using company-standard CAD/3D platforms
Support System Design from 3D models following established standards and processes
Follow CAD standards, configuration control, and QA procedures for all modeling
Maintain organized model files, reference files, and documentation in the project data environment
Support preparation for model and drawing reviews
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
This position requires a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering with a background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, power engineering, turbomachinery, thermal systems, and energy conversion
Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design
Proficiency/experience with at least one CAD/3D platform (e.g., AutoCAD, AutoCAD Plant 3D, Revit, SolidWorks, Hexagon SmartPlant, or similar) from school, internships, or prior work
Ability to read and interpret basic engineering drawings (plans, sections, elevations)
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate work
Willingness to learn new software tools, standards, and workflows
Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to work in a team environment
Preferred Qualifications
A BS or MS degree from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program
Internship, co-op, or project experience on industrial, power, or infrastructure projects
Exposure to any 3D/BIM plant design tools (e.g., Intergraph Smart 3D, AutoCAD 2D/3D, AutoCAD Plant 3D, AutoCAD MEP, Revit, Hexagon SmartPlant, Bentley OpenPlant Modeler, PDMS/E3D).
Familiarity with basic concepts of configuration control and quality assurance
Experience using any model review or clash detection tools (e.g., Autodesk Navisworks) is a plus
AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy
In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:
You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.
Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & Wellness Financial Benefits Work-Life Balance
Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
Life & Accident Insurance
Disability Coverage
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Back-Up Daycare
FSA & HSA
401(k)
Pre-Tax Commuter Account
Merit Scholarship Program
Employee Discount Program
Corporate Charitable Giving Program
Tuition Assistance
First Professional Licensure Bonus
Employee Referral Bonus
Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Paid Parental Leave
Paid Bereavement Leave
Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range
$62,998 - $90,586
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
About This Business Unit
Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we've been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!
Awards & Recognition
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.
CityChicago
StateIL
CountryUnited States
Area of InterestMechanical Engineering
TypeFull Time - Regular
Job ID2026-24007
Business GroupNuclear Power Group
DepartmentMechanical Engineering
