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Nuclear Plant Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sargent & Lundy

$110K - $133K/yr

Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks. * Perform ... Experience with nuclear power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects. * Experience and practical ...

Luminant

Director, Nuclear Site Engineering

Perry, OH

$81K - $97K/yr

... for a Nuclear Station Leader who is responsible for managing the Site Engineering Department to ... OEM vendors) on Plant Systems. * Review and prioritize the recommended Design Modifications ...

Vistra Energy

Director, Nuclear Site Engineering

Perry, OH

$81K - $97K/yr

... for a Nuclear Station Leader who is responsible for managing the Site Engineering Department to ... OEM vendors) on Plant Systems. * Review and prioritize the recommended Design Modifications ...

Luminant

Director, Nuclear Site Engineering

Oak Harbor, OH

$92K - $110K/yr

... for a Nuclear Station Leader who is responsible for managing the Site Engineering Department to ... OEM vendors) on Plant Systems. * Review and prioritize the recommended Design Modifications ...

TXU Energy

Director, Nuclear Site Engineering

Perry, OH

$81K - $97K/yr

... for a Nuclear Station Leader who is responsible for managing the Site Engineering Department to ... OEM vendors) on Plant Systems. * Review and prioritize the recommended Design Modifications ...

Luminant

Director, Nuclear Site Engineering

Glen Rose, TX · On-site

$84K - $101K/yr

... for a Nuclear Station Leader who is responsible for managing the Site Engineering Department to ... OEM vendors) on Plant Systems. * Review and prioritize the recommended Design Modifications ...

Luminant

Director, Nuclear Site Engineering

Shippingport, PA · On-site

$96K - $115K/yr

... for a Nuclear Station Leader who is responsible for managing the Site Engineering Department to ... OEM vendors) on Plant Systems. * Review and prioritize the recommended Design Modifications ...

Vistra Corp

Director, Nuclear Site Engineering

Oak Harbor, OH · On-site

$92K - $110K/yr

... for a Nuclear Station Leader who is responsible for managing the Site Engineering Department to ... OEM vendors) on Plant Systems. * Review and prioritize the recommended Design Modifications ...

Sargent & Lundy

$110K - $133K/yr

Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks. * Perform ... Experience with nuclear power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects. * Experience and practical ...

Southern Company

Engineer - Plant Hatch

Baxley, GA · On-site

Engineer - Plant Hatch Summary of Job Duties: We have openings for engineers that may be filled as ... Engineers at Southern Nuclear may have opportunities to manage special projects. Also, engineers ...

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All JobsNuclear Plant Engineer Jobs

Nuclear Plant Engineer information

See salary details

$97K

$135.7K

$176.5K

How much do nuclear plant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear plant engineer in the United States is $135,726.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,000.00 and $158,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Nuclear Plant Engineers?

Nuclear Plant Engineers are professionals who design, operate, maintain, and ensure the safety of nuclear power plants. They are responsible for managing the systems that generate electricity from nuclear energy, addressing safety protocols, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Their work is crucial in providing reliable and safe energy while minimizing environmental risks and maintaining strict safety guidelines.

What is the difference between Nuclear Plant Engineer vs Nuclear Reactor Operator?

AspectNuclear Plant EngineerNuclear Reactor Operator
CredentialsBachelor's in Nuclear Engineering or related field; licensing often requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training and licensing required
Work EnvironmentDesign, maintenance, and safety analysis within nuclear power plantsOperate and monitor reactor systems directly during shifts
Employer & Industry UsagePower plants, engineering firms, regulatory agenciesNuclear power plants, energy sector

The main difference is that Nuclear Plant Engineers focus on designing, maintaining, and ensuring safety protocols for nuclear facilities, often working behind the scenes. In contrast, Nuclear Reactor Operators are responsible for the real-time operation and control of reactor systems during shifts. Both roles require specialized training and licensing but differ in daily responsibilities and focus areas.

What are some common challenges faced by Nuclear Plant Engineers during daily operations?

Nuclear Plant Engineers often encounter challenges related to ensuring the safe and efficient operation of complex reactor systems. They must remain vigilant about regulatory compliance, swiftly address unexpected technical issues, and coordinate closely with multidisciplinary teams including safety, operations, and maintenance staff. Balancing routine monitoring with periodic system upgrades and rigorous safety drills is key, and adapting quickly to evolving technology and safety protocols is essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nuclear Plant Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in nuclear or mechanical engineering, a bachelor’s degree in engineering, and often a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with nuclear reactor systems, safety analysis tools, and regulatory compliance frameworks such as NRC guidelines is essential. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and communication skills help engineers excel in high-stakes, team-oriented environments. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of nuclear power facilities.
More about Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Plant Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs are:
Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Plant Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,726 per year, or $65.3 per hour.
Lead Mechanical Engineer 2 (Nuclear Plant Analysis) - Nuclear

Lead Mechanical Engineer 2 (Nuclear Plant Analysis) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Remote

$134K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Description
Our electric power generation clients are seeking to increase the power output of their existing power plants to meet the electric demands. This is expanding work in the Mechanical Analysis Engineering group. You will work on major systems, equipment and plant process in the following areas:
  • Develop and lead licensing basis system and component evaluations for nuclear power uprate projects.
  • This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and experience in power plant engineering.
  • Perform consulting level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry.
  • Prepare and review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink, and plant hazards to support client recommendations and reviews.
  • Prepare task reports and equipment evaluations that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
  • Perform equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to client needs to support the proposed power uprate.
  • Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
  • Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates.
  • Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks.
  • Perform independent reviews of work performed by others including calculations and drawing preparation.
  • Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction.

Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
  • This position requires a BSME from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
  • 12 or more years of experience in the nuclear power industry.
  • Experience with nuclear power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects.
  • Experience and practical knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
    • Balance of plant system and component evaluations
    • Pinch point assessments and/or task reports
    • Heat balance
    • Power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink
    • Circulating Water and Ultimate Heat Sinks
  • All assignments require the preparation of calculations and/or reports, and excellent technical report writing skills are essential.
  • Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design.
  • Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving.
  • Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants.
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Valued but not required skills and experience:
  • MSME from an ABET accredited program with a strong academic background
  • PE License

AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy
In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to lead others who use modern tools:
  • You are expected to lead others in taking engineering problems from issue to solution by setting expectations for using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Leaders in these roles often direct automation and process-improvement work, for example, how teams automate calculations, summarize technical documents, or generate design documentation and guiding when and how AI or agentic AI tools are used while ensuring results are checked.
  • Overseeing engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs, is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that enables effective oversight of automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.

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
$134,546 - $205,557
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!
Awards & Recognition
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

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

Social media

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