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Nuclear Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer

Highwood, IL

$100K - $120K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Riverdale, IL

$92K - $111K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Thornton, IL

$91K - $109K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lincolnshire, IL

$103K - $124K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hinsdale, IL

$99K - $118K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Roselle, IL

$98K - $118K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Saint Charles, IL

$96K - $115K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Joliet, IL

$95K - $114K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Inverness, IL

$97K - $117K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Kildeer, IL

$100K - $120K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Munster, IN

$96K - $115K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hometown, IL

$98K - $118K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely ...

Showing results 21-40

Nuclear Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$26.8K

$108.9K

$154.6K

How much do nuclear engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear engineering in Chicago, IL is $108,863.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,500.00 and $121,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is nuclear engineering?

A Nuclear Engineering job involves the research, design, development, and maintenance of nuclear systems, including reactors, power plants, and radiation applications. Nuclear engineers ensure the safe and efficient use of nuclear energy and radiation in power generation, medical treatments, and industrial applications. They work on reactor safety, radiation shielding, nuclear fuel management, and compliance with regulatory standards. Many nuclear engineers are employed in energy production, while others contribute to medicine, space exploration, and national defense.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in nuclear engineering?

Nuclear engineers typically require a degree in nuclear engineering or a related field, with strong knowledge of physics, mathematics, and safety protocols. Proficiency with computer-aided design (CAD) software, reactor simulation tools, and familiarity with NRC regulations or a Professional Engineering (PE) license are often needed. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help individuals excel in multidisciplinary project environments. These abilities are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation and development of nuclear systems.

What are the common career advancement opportunities for nuclear engineers?

Nuclear engineers typically start their careers in entry-level engineering roles focused on system analysis, reactor operation, or project design. With experience, they may advance to supervisory positions, project management, or specialized roles such as reactor licensing and safety analysis. Many nuclear engineers also pursue advanced certifications or graduate degrees to move into research, policy, or senior technical leadership positions. Career progression often depends on technical expertise, leadership abilities, and staying current with industry regulations and advancements.

What jobs can a nuclear engineer get?

A nuclear engineer can work in power plant design and operation, nuclear safety analysis, radiation protection, and research and development. They often work in environments such as nuclear facilities, government agencies, or private industry, utilizing skills in reactor physics, thermodynamics, and regulatory compliance.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Nuclear Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Nuclear Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Nuclear Engineering jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Nuclear Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $108,863 per year, or $52.3 per hour.

Structural Engineering Consultant - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

$165K - $253K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Description

This role offers a hybrid work arrangement. You'll spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days. 

This is a lead design engineering position that offers a variety of interesting and challenging opportunities in structural engineering and will provide an excellent opportunity to advance your career. You will guide a team of structural engineers, interface with engineers from other disciplines, and interface directly with clients. You will have the opportunity to lead and mentor a structural engineering team on engineering projects for new nuclear facilities and upgrades and modifications to nuclear power plants in the following areas:

  • This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design
  • As a member of an engineering and design team, you will work on a wide range of projects for various clients.  You will prepare, review, and provide guidance for design calculations, develop specifications, and work with designers for drawing development
  • You will prepare, review, or guide the structural analysis and design of steel frames, connections, concrete members, and foundations
  • There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs
Qualifications

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

Essential skills and experience: 

  • BSCE with emphasis in Structural Engineering from an ABET-accredited program
  • Twenty or more years of experience working as a member of a project team in the design and analysis of industrial / heavy commercial or nuclear facility structures
  • Proficiency with structural analysis software such as STAAD, SAP2000, SAFE, STRUDL, or ANSYS
  • Proficiency with design codes and standards such as  ASCE 7, AISC, and , ACI
  • Good written and verbal communication skills
  • PE or SE license

 Valued, but not required:

  • MSCE degree
  • On site construction support experience
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$165,610 - $253,015Transparency 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

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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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