Program Manager Contract Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities

This role will offer a hybrid work arrangement from our future Knoxville office. The expectation will be to spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.

This position will offer you the opportunity to manage project(s) consisting of engineering, licensing, environmental, and professionals involved in the design, modification, and analysis of new and existing nuclear power plant modifications in particular small modular reactors. The position will involve coordinating with multiple internal and external departments to manage the life cycle of project execution.

• Responsible for project execution, coordination of resources from each discipline as required.
• Lead all aspects of project execution including safety, schedule, budget, reporting and client experience through entire project lifecycle.
• Develop and maintain a positive working relationship with client task engineers and stakeholders.
• Support the reporting of key performance indicators for schedule, budget and other dashboard items.
• Recognize, identify, track and control project risks and change.
• Timely communicate and consult with appropriate stakeholders and supervisors to resolve project constraints.
• Lead and direct the project team ensuring client and Sargent & Lundy goals are achieved.
• Mentor and coach project team members providing timely feedback.
• Analyze issues and provide solutions to improve results.
• Develop and implement engineering and project management solutions meeting client goals in compliance with contract scope, time, and budgetary requirements.
• Prepare and/or review reports and studies that present technical information in a clear and concise manner meeting client and Sargent & Lundy.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Conduct site visits and inspections as required.
• Provide training and support to clients and team members.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest engineering trends and technologies.
• Participate in professional development and continuous improvement activities.
• Assist in the preparation of project proposals and bids.

Qualifications

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

Essential skills and experience:

• BS from an ABET-accredited engineering program
• 10 or more years of experience in a technical field (engineering, construction, planning, etc.)
• Demonstrated experience with project management and coordination.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Strong and dynamic written, verbal and intercultural communication skills
• Experience with preparing and presenting technical reports virtually and in-person.
• Experience with feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses.
• Proficiency in use of Microsoft software and tools.
• Strong commitment to professional development and continuous improvement.

Valued but not required skills and experience:

• PMP Certification is a plus
• MBA is a plus
• Experience writing proposals is a plus
• Experience with international client management and travel is a plus
• Experience with managing and executing US Government contracts in accordance with 2 CFR 200 and 2 CFR 600
• Experience with developing Microsoft PowerBi, Power Automate, PowerApps, or other programming capabilities.
• Languages: Russian, Polish, Bulgarian, Slovak, Czech, or Estonian(Level 3 or above)

Technology & Innovation

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.

About Sargent & Lundy

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 & Wellness

• Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
• Life & Accident Insurance
• Disability Coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Back‑Up Daycare
• FSA & HSA

Financial Benefits

• 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

Work‑Life Balance

• Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Paid Bereavement Leave
• Flexible Work Arrangements

Compensation Range $118,023 - $180,313 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!

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.