Computer Programming Apprenticeship Jobs in Virginia

Design the Hardware That Keeps Nuclear Power Running!

What if your drawings didn't just represent a part—they helped make it possible to safely operate a nuclear power plant?  As a Designer within our Component Engineering organization, you'll play a critical role in developing the mechanical and structural designs used to repair, replace, modify, and maintain equipment at commercial nuclear power plants.

Component Engineering is different from traditional product design. Our engineers and designers work on real-world, highly engineered components that are installed in operating nuclear facilities. Projects can involve everything from custom mechanical components and structural assemblies to pressure-retaining equipment, supports, shielding, lifting fixtures, and specialized tooling.

You'll work closely with Component Engineers to transform engineering concepts and technical requirements into detailed 3D models, fabrication drawings, assembly drawings, installation drawings, and other controlled engineering documents. Your work may ultimately be used by machinists, fabricators, welders, field personnel, and nuclear plant maintenance teams to build and install the equipment you've helped design.

The work is challenging because every project can be different. Existing plant conditions, limited space, aging equipment, material requirements, fabrication constraints, installation access, and nuclear industry standards all have to be considered. The result is a role where your design skills directly contribute to solving complex engineering problems.

The Designer supports the Component Engineering organization by developing accurate, detailed, and manufacturable designs for mechanical and structural components used in commercial nuclear power plants.  Working closely with Component Engineers, the Designer translates engineering concepts, calculations, sketches, field information, and technical requirements into detailed CAD models and engineering drawings.

The position requires a strong understanding of mechanical design principles, drafting practices, dimensional requirements, tolerancing, materials, fabrication processes, and drawing standards. The successful candidate will be comfortable working on multidisciplinary teams to develop practical solutions to complex design challenges.

Some limited travel (1 - 3 days) may be required to support meetings at customer sites, perform plant walkdowns, resolve fabrication issues, and load test verification. This position does not require long term outage deployments.

• Develop detailed 3D CAD models and 2D engineering drawings for mechanical and structural components.
• Translate engineering concepts and requirements into detailed, fabrication-ready designs.
• Create part, assembly, fabrication, installation, and detail drawings.
• Develop drawing details including dimensions, tolerances, weld symbols, material specifications, notes, and bills of material.
• Work with Component Engineers to develop practical solutions to unique plant and field conditions.
• Review existing drawings and documentation to understand existing plant equipment and configurations.
• Incorporate field measurements, photographs, sketches, and as-found conditions into engineering designs.
• Support the development of repair, replacement, modification, and installation designs.
• Participate in design reviews and resolve drawing and design comments.
• Support engineering changes and revisions to existing designs.
• Maintain configuration control and ensure engineering documentation accurately reflects the approved design.

• High School diploma or equivalent education, including completed coursework in drafting and CAD. 
• Minimum of 8 years of related experience.
• Advanced knowledge of CAD workstations for creating 2D and 3D drawings.  
• Knowledge of drafting.  
• Ability to interpret and apply design criteria and technical documentation.  
• Ability to ensure accuracy in drawings in compliance with standards.
• Excellent communication skills to comprehend, follow direction and convey detailed technical data. 
• Previous fabrication or welding experience are highly desirable. (Apprentice school, machinist, etc.).
• Ability to develop and maintain good interpersonal relationships; work collaboratively within a team environment.
• Ability to change priorities quickly, confront issues directly.  
• Exposure to use of CAD modeling and computer programming skills. 

• Experience working in a multi-disciplinary design environment including experience with pressure vessel design, structural steel detailing and fabrication, piping system design and nomenclature, and general metalworking practices. 

• Experience working with Solidworks or other 3D CAD systems.

• Working knowledge of GD&T and tolerance analysis.

• Ability to interact effectively with all levels of staff and management.

• Salary: $97,000- $127,000 and may also include annual incentives and performance bonuses. The base salary range is a guideline. Individual total compensation will vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location.
• Health & Wellness: Multiple medical plan options, dental & vision coverage, life insurance, long- and short-term disability, and optional supplemental plans (critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, dependent life).
• Retirement: 401(k) with employer match.
• Paid Time Off: Up to 3 weeks of vacation, 8 sick days, and 13 paid holidays annually.
• Extra Perks: Lifestyle spending account, employer paid mental health support, education reimbursement, professional development opportunities, adoption assistance, parental leave, and employee assistance programs.

Framatome has been shaping the future of nuclear energy in the U.S. for more than 60 years. Framatome Inc. is headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia, with more than 2,400+ employees across North America supporting nearly every nuclear plant in the nation.

From our facilities in Virginia, Washington, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and beyond, we deliver outage services, advanced nuclear fuel technologies, and next-gen reactor innovations that keep the lights on.

At Framatome, you will join a global team committed to creating reliable, carbon-free energy. Here, you can:

• Solve complex nuclear challenges that directly impact the climate.
• Build your career through technical fellowships, leadership roles, and global opportunities.
• Do your best work in a culture that values safety, innovation, and well-being.

Framatome is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Offers are contingent on background check and drug screen (where applicable). Positions may involve access to information subject to U.S. export control regulations; applicants must meet eligibility requirements (see DOE 810 Appendix A).