Freelance Nuclear Structural Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Merrick is seeking an experienced Senior Structural Equipment Engineer to join our Nuclear Services & Technology (NST) Business Unit. This position entails supporting the design and retrofit of Department of Energy governmental facility and equipment projects. Responsibilities include analysis and detailed design of mechanical equipment and gloveboxes, performing engineering cost estimates, and working with other disciplines such as the mechanical, and electrical groups. This position is full-time and located in our Aiken, SC; Los Alamos, NM; Oak Ridge, TN or Greenwood Village, CO offices. A hybrid schedule will be considered.

The ideal candidate will be proficient in preparing engineering calculations and sketches; reviewing drawings; developing project proposals, scopes, and budgets; generating specifications and technical reports; and directing design staff in the preparation of drawings and other engineering deliverables. The Senior Structural Engineer will proficiently use engineering software applications and demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills. As a design professional, this individual will be responsible for producing innovative and cost-effective designs, drawings, and specifications with a customer-friendly focus. The candidate will be adept at communicating with both internal and external clients.

• Application of engineering and construction Knowledge:
• Develop complete structural design of various structural systems using the appropriate building and material codes. These systems are typically steel, concrete, or a combination of the two.
• Develop design concepts and recommend appropriate structural gravity/lateral support and foundation systems
• Evaluate existing concrete and steel structures and provide written reports on deficiencies for client review. Recommend non-destructive or destructive tests for further evaluation.
• Design:
• Prepare clear, complete, and concise calculations, including software analysis models, and provides the appropriate level of connection design as required.
• Coordinate work with other disciplines. Performs interdisciplinary coordination checks to minimize deficiencies, errors, and omissions in engineering deliverables.
• Prepare design criteria for all assigned projects and assures compliance with project and client requirements.
• Producing well-organized structural engineering drawings, calculations, and specifications.
• Participate in bid reviews when requested and the 30%, 60%, and 90% design reviews on all assigned projects.
• Construction Support:
• Review shop drawings and submittals for specification compliance in a timely manner.
• Participate in appropriate preconstruction/preparatory meetings.
• Perform site visits and prepares observation/follow-up phase reports documenting progress and deficiencies.
• Review all structural-related testing and inspection reports.
• Respond to all RFI’s and provides construction support as required.
• Profitability/Planning/Scheduling:
• Provide scope definition, budget and schedule estimates for proposal development.
• Monitor assigned project progress and keeps appraised of deadlines and advises the technical lead on resource needs to meet project deadlines.
• Leadership:
• Lead structural staff working under his/her direction.
• Serve as the structural engineering subject matter expert in the application of advanced concepts, principles, and methods.
• Mentor junior engineers and designers to help with professional development. 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or Mechanical Engineering from an ABET accredited program required.
• Minimum of twelve (12) years of relevant experience.
• Registered Professional Engineer (PE) and the ability to obtain New Mexico, South Carolina and/or Tennessee PE license within a reasonable amount of time.
• Proficiency in MS Office, MathCAD, AutoCAD, Revit, ACI 318, AISC 360, ASCE-7, and IBC.
• Proficiency in Finite Element Software such as RISA-3D, STAAD Pro, GT STRUDL, SAP 2000, or SAFE.
• Client projects for this position require U.S. Citizenship.

• Experience with design for Department of Energy governmental facility projects following DOE-STD-1020.
• Experience performing work under a robust quality assurance program such as ASME NQA-1.
• Experience with nuclear analysis and design codes, including ASCE 4, ASCE 43, ACI 349, and AISC N690.
• Experience specifically in the seismic analysis and qualification of mechanical equipment and gloveboxes.

#LI-Hybrid

• Employee Ownership – All eligible U.S. employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), sharing in the company’s success.
• Comprehensive Compensation & Benefits – Merrick & Company offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including health insurance, dental and vision coverage, and paid time off (PTO).
• Robust Referral Program – Earn incentives for referring top talent to join our team.
• Performance Reviews – Annual reviews to recognize contributions and support career growth.
• Professional Development – Access to ongoing training and development opportunities to build your skills and advance your career.
• Employee Recognition – Formal programs to celebrate achievements and outstanding performance.
• Peer Mentor Program – Get support and guidance through structured mentorship opportunities.
• And More – Additional programs and benefits designed to support your success and well-being.

• Apply online only. No e-mail, hard copy or third-party resumes accepted.
• At Merrick, every resume is carefully reviewed by our team of experienced human recruiters—never by AI. We are committed to a fully human-centered hiring process, ensuring each candidate receives thoughtful, personalized attention at every stage.
• Merrick is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets.
• Employment with Merrick is contingent upon completion of a pre-employment background check, MVR check, and drug screen.

#LI-Hybrid

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or Mechanical Engineering from an ABET accredited program required.
• Minimum of twelve (12) years of relevant experience.
• Registered Professional Engineer (PE) and the ability to obtain New Mexico, South Carolina and/or Tennessee PE license within a reasonable amount of time.
• Proficiency in MS Office, MathCAD, AutoCAD, Revit, ACI 318, AISC 360, ASCE-7, and IBC.
• Proficiency in Finite Element Software such as RISA-3D, STAAD Pro, GT STRUDL, SAP 2000, or SAFE.
• Client projects for this position require U.S. Citizenship.