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Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer I/II (Reactor Design)

Madison, WI · On-site

$99.30K - $118.90K/yr

The Nuclear Engineer I/II will contribute to the design, analysis, and optimization of advanced nuclear reactor systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in nuclear engineering ...

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Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer information

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$37

How much do apprentice nuclear design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice nuclear design engineer in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by progress toward a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry safety standards—along with any progress toward professional engineering certification—is highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, innovative, and compliant nuclear facility designs while collaborating within multidisciplinary teams.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer expect to work on during their apprenticeship?

As an Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer, you will typically be involved in supporting experienced engineers with the design, analysis, and documentation of nuclear systems and components. Your daily tasks may include preparing technical drawings, performing calculations under supervision, learning industry-specific software, and participating in team meetings to discuss design solutions. Apprentices often rotate through different departments, giving you exposure to safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and hands-on problem-solving. This collaborative environment allows you to build both technical and soft skills while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the nuclear design process.

What are Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineers?

Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the design, analysis, and improvement of nuclear systems and components under the supervision of experienced engineers. They typically participate in a structured training program that combines academic study with hands-on experience in areas such as reactor design, safety analysis, and regulatory compliance. This role is intended to prepare apprentices for full engineering responsibilities by providing them with foundational knowledge and practical skills needed in the nuclear industry.

What is the difference between Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer vs Nuclear Design Engineer?

AspectApprentice Nuclear Design EngineerNuclear Design Engineer
QualificationsEntry-level, often requiring a relevant degree or ongoing educationTypically requires a degree in nuclear engineering or related field, with some roles preferring professional certification
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised tasks, and developmental projects within nuclear facilities or engineering firmsDesign, analyze, and develop nuclear reactor components, often working independently or in teams
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior engineers, learning design processes, and performing basic calculationsCreating design models, performing simulations, and ensuring safety and compliance standards

The main difference between an Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer and a Nuclear Design Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Apprentices are in training, focusing on learning and assisting, while Nuclear Design Engineers are fully responsible for designing and analyzing nuclear systems. The apprenticeship serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed or fully qualified engineer in the nuclear industry.

What cities are hiring for Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Design Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Nuclear Design Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer jobs include:
Mechanical Engineering Consultant 2 - Nuclear

Mechanical Engineering Consultant 2 - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Chattanooga, TN • Hybrid

$142.71K - $215.44K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

You will be involved in nuclear power plant systems design, including preparation or review of:

  • Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants
  • Functional mechanical drawings and/or drawings for nuclear power plant systems
  • Engineering analyses and evaluations to support modifications and operation of plant systems
  • Technical specifications and procurement documents for plant equipment
  • Vendor bid evaluations for plant equipment
  • Studies and options evaluations for modifications to operating nuclear power plants

In addition, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Develop engineering cost estimates for small to mid-sized client-requested work scopes
  • Visit client office and/or plant site locations to interface with the client and make presentations related to engineering tasks and status
  • Lead engineering project teams

This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.


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

  • BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering from an ABET accredited program
  • 10 or more years of experience in the power industry
  • Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants
  • PE license is beneficial, but not required 

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 & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-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

$142,710.00 - $215,440.00
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.

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!


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.


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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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