Entry Level Thermal Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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

Provides technical support on projects by performing a variety of engineering tasks such as preparing calculations, specifications, and component designs. Is technically involved in the resolution of simple design problems. Most tasks are performed under minimal supervision.

Mid-Level staff support engineering design projects with the following responsibilities:

• Prepares complex calculations. Reviews simple calculations.
• Reviews simple system/structural designs.
• Prepares, under supervision, documented design input for drawing production (i.e., P&IDs and Master Diagrams).
• Prepares specifications for most balance of plant equipment.
• Prepares bid evaluations for single components. Prepares calculations to support economic evaluations. Solicits data from vendors.
• Prepares simple reports/studies.
• Provides input to project budgets, schedules, and project work plans. Monitors own work to ensure it is completed within budget and on schedule.
• Uses effective written and oral communication skills to convey information to project team members and managers. Presents written technical information in a clear and concise manner in all deliverables.
• Communicates with vendors via clearly written and complete specifications.
• Applies accepted standards and processes to assigned project tasks.
• Completes work assignments within established schedule.
• May mentor entry-level engineers.

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

Qualifications

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

Essential Skills and Experience:

• BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Aerospace, or Structural/Civil Engineering, from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program, with an emphasis in solid mechanics, structural analysis, theory of elasticity, metallurgy, and finite element analysis
• 3 or more years of relevant experience
• Must have knowledge of ASME B31.1 and ASME B&PV Section III piping codes
• Knowledge of the design, selection, and application of pipe supporting elements
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Valued but Not Required Skills and Experience:

• P.E. license
• Working knowledge of commercially available piping products and their application
• The ability to navigate a 3D CAD model
• Experience with AutoPIPE or PIPESTRESS software
• Knowledge of gas dynamics and hydraulic transients
• Knowledge of pipe condition assessment

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$74,353 - $113,595Transparency StatementSargent & 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.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME