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Required Qualifications * Entry-level experience in electrical design. Preferred Qualifications ... Piping and Mechanical Fabrication (through one of our affiliates) Civil Work (through one of our ...

... design experience; entry-level candidates with strong internship or co-op experience will be ... Familiarity with ASME BPE piping standards and hygienic design principles * Exposure to cleanroom ...

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How much do entry level piping designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level piping designer in the United States is $51.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.31 and $61.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level piping designer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Piping Designer, you need a fundamental understanding of drafting principles, mechanical design, and basic engineering concepts, typically supported by an associate's degree or technical certification in drafting or engineering technology. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SmartPlant), piping design standards, and 3D modeling systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you deliver accurate designs and work well within project teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing safe, efficient piping layouts that meet project requirements and industry regulations.

What does an entry level piping designer do?

An Entry Level Piping Designer is responsible for creating and modifying technical drawings and plans for piping systems in industries such as oil and gas, chemical plants, or power generation. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop layouts, isometric drawings, and detailed schematics under the supervision of senior engineers or designers. Their work helps ensure that piping systems are safe, efficient, and in compliance with industry standards. Entry level designers often collaborate with engineers, project managers, and other team members to deliver accurate project documentation.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level piping designers, and how can they overcome them?

As an entry level piping designer, you may encounter challenges such as learning complex design software, understanding industry codes and standards, and effectively interpreting engineering drawings. It can also be challenging to coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers and construction personnel, to ensure designs are accurate and practical. To overcome these challenges, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate in training sessions, and proactively ask questions when unsure. Over time, your familiarity with design tools and collaboration skills will improve, making your transition into the role smoother.
More about Entry Level Piping Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Piping Designer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Piping Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Piping Designer jobs? The most popular types of Piping Designer jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Piping Designer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Piping Designer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Piping Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,379 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Piping Stress Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$62K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

Description
Piping Engineering & Analysis Synopsis
The Piping Engineering & Analysis discipline performs evaluations for piping systems in accordance with ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, ASME B31.1, ASME B31.7, and other codes as applicable to the specific evaluation being performed. The Piping Engineering & Analysis discipline also performs the following specialty topics:
  • Vibration monitoring and analysis to evaluate system operational vibrations associated with plant modifications and operating events, and to provide vibration prevention and mitigation solutions and designs
  • Evaluation of hydraulic transients, evaluation of piping systems for thermal stratification effects, operability evaluations, and qualification of piping for hydrodynamic loads
  • Pipe rupture evaluations, evaluation of pipe wall thinning due to flow accelerated corrosion (FAC) or microbiological induced corrosion (MIC), and pipe flaw evaluations

Position Specific Details
Responsible for learning the practical application of engineering principles through participation in the collection, processing, and evaluation of data. This involves performing various engineering-related calculations and analyses of limited scope and under close supervision.
Entry-level staff support engineering design projects with the following responsibilities:
  • Under supervision, gathers data and prepares simple calculations.
  • Under supervision, prepares simple system/structural designs.
  • Gathers data for specifications.
  • Gathers data and prepares simple bid tabulations.
  • Gathers data for reports/studies.
  • Communicates technical information and results in a clear and concise manner that is usable by other project team members and supervisors.
  • Gains familiarity with and applies the accepted standards and processes to assigned project tasks.
  • Completes assignments within allocated time frames.
  • Develops personal capabilities to the fullest on assigned projects, in order to grow professionally.

Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
  • A Bachelor's or Master's of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Aerospace, or Structural/Civil Engineering with an emphasis in solid mechanics, structural analysis, theory of elasticity, metallurgy, and finite element analysis
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications

Valued but not required skills and experience:
  • A Bachelor's or Master's of Science from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program
  • Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training
  • Previous, related internship or co-op experience
  • Familiarity with AutoPIPE and PIPESTRESS software

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 & 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

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!
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.

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About Sargent & Lundy

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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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