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Small Modular Reactor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Designer 1 - Nuclear Power

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$58K - $84K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$118K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Chicago, IL · On-site

$84K - $129K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$84K - $129K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Electrical Designer 3 - Nuclear Power

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$68K - $104K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Mechanical Designer 2 - Nuclear Power

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$64K - $93K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Small Modular Reactor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.1K

$83.1K

$126.2K

How much do small modular reactor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for small modular reactor in Chicago, IL is $83,118.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $89,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a small modular reactor?

A Small Modular Reactor (SMR) job involves working on the design, development, construction, operation, or regulation of SMRs, which are advanced nuclear reactors that are smaller and more flexible than traditional nuclear plants. Professionals in this field may include engineers, scientists, safety analysts, project managers, and regulatory specialists. These roles focus on improving reactor efficiency, ensuring safety, and advancing clean energy solutions. SMR jobs exist in government agencies, private companies, and research institutions working to develop next-generation nuclear technology.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for a small modular reactor engineer?

As a Small Modular Reactor Engineer, your daily tasks might include performing system analyses, monitoring reactor performance, reviewing safety protocols, and collaborating with other engineering disciplines to troubleshoot technical challenges. You may also be involved in preparing regulatory reports, overseeing construction or installation activities, and participating in design reviews or risk assessments. Working closely with project managers, safety specialists, and government regulators is common to ensure all reactor operations meet stringent safety and quality standards. This role offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment, with frequent opportunities to apply technical expertise to innovative, real-world energy solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the small modular reactor position, and why are they important?

To excel in a Small Modular Reactor Engineer role, candidates need a solid background in nuclear engineering, mechanical or electrical engineering, and strong analytical abilities, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with nuclear reactor simulation software, regulatory compliance tools, and safety certification (such as a Professional Engineer license or NRC qualification) is highly valued. Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are key for coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and ensuring regulatory standards are met. These qualifications are crucial to designing, operating, and maintaining advanced nuclear systems safely and efficiently within a regulated environment.

What job categories do people searching Small Modular Reactor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Small Modular Reactor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Small Modular Reactor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Small Modular Reactor job openings:

Infographic showing various Small Modular Reactor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 33% In-person, and 67% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $83,118 per year, or $40 per hour.

Senior Electrical Wiring Project Designer - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL • On-site

$105K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 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 449 rated engineering


Job description

  • This position will offer you the opportunity to work  in a project team environment in the design, modification, and/or upgrade of new and existing power plant electrical systems
  • As the Electrical Project Lead, you will give directions to design staff and work with multi-disciplined engineering and design project teams in the development of the following:
    • Single-line diagrams
    • Relay and metering diagrams
    • AC and DC schematic diagrams
    • Synchronizing diagrams
    • Point to point wiring diagrams
    • Cable schedules
  • You will oversee and review production of electrical wiring drawings, and review and incorporate vendor drawings into the overall project design.
  • There will be opportunities to accompany and lead field walkdowns and data gathering at client facilities. 
  • Capable of being badged for unescorted access to a nuclear station.

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

Essential skills and experience:

  • An Associate's Degree in drafting, or a high school diploma and equivalent technical design experience
  • 15-20 years of detailed wiring design experience in the development of single-line, and relay and metering diagrams, including medium-voltage and 480V systems
  • Familiarity with digital control systems
  • The ability to perform the following:
    • Produce wiring diagrams and schematics for installers and electricians
    • Assist engineers with initial design requirements
    • Conceptualize plans and details to accurately convey wiring termination requirements
    • Extensive AutoCAD and/or Microstation design experience on power plants or large facility projects
    • A thorough understanding of drafting and design practices and theories
    • The ability to interface and communicate with engineering and design teams of other disciplines in the power plant design process

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

$105,557 - $161,268
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.

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.


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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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