Per Diem Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Chattanooga, TN

Nuclear Power is a carbon-free energy source. Our nuclear power generation clients are digitizing their existing power plants and building new nuclear power plants, small modular reactors (SMR). This is expanding work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group. Due to this influx of work, Sargent & Lundy has a need for several I&C Engineers.

This design engineering position offers a variety of interesting and challenging opportunities in nuclear Instrument and Controls Engineering and will provide an excellent opportunity to advance your career. You will interface with the discipline engineers and designers on the Project Team and with the client to ensure all client requirements are satisfied. 

You will work on major process controls engineering projects in the following areas:

• Digital Systems -- PLC, DCS, Touchscreen displays, network switches and control systems
• Functional Requirement and Procurement Specifications for instrumentation and control systems for nuclear power plants
• Process instrumentation replacement evaluation reports
• Prepare documentation for design input for drawing production including  cable block diagrams and schematics
• Interface with vendors and prepare equipment purchase specifications
• Prepare reports and studies that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements
• Attend client meetings and perform site walkdowns to ensure the client is satisfied with our work product
• Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced nuclear instrumentation and controls design engineer

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

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

Essential Skills:

• A BS degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program with a strong academic background and coursework in analog and digital control systems, systems engineering, mechatronics, or robotics is required

• 3 or more years of experience in design engineering for process control systems
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience in reviewing design drawings created by others

Valued but not required skills and experience:

• Experience in design engineering for nuclear power plant control system
• PE license

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.

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 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

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!

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.