Structural Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear
Sargent & Lundy · Richland, WA
- On site
- Full-time
- $90,586 / year
- Richland, WA
Job highlights
- Apply structural engineering knowledge in nuclear projects.
- Perform analysis and design of structural components.
- Collaborate with diverse engineering teams.
- Utilize state-of-the-art computer tools.
- Develop skills with expert mentorship.
About the role
Entry-Level Structural Engineer - Nuclear
Sargent & Lundy is seeking an Entry-Level Structural Engineer to join our Nuclear Power Group. This role offers the opportunity to apply and expand your academic knowledge in structural engineering through a variety of challenging responsibilities. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and designers on new nuclear facility designs, plant betterment projects, and modifications.
Key Responsibilities
- Apply your knowledge of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design.
- Prepare design calculations and develop specifications.
- Support designers with drawing development.
- Perform structural analysis and design of steel frames, connections, concrete members, equipment and piping supports, and foundations using state-of-the-art computer tools.
- Conduct structural analyses, including loading conditions such as wind and seismic.
Additional Opportunities
- Receive training and mentorship from experienced structural design engineers.
- Potential for travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews.
- Opportunity to visit plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's or Master's of Science in Structural/Civil Engineering or Architectural Engineering with a strong academic background and interest in behavior of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design.
- Completion of coursework in steel and concrete design.
- Knowledge of practical structural engineering applications, including loads analysis and design integrity.
- Understanding of structural engineering principles, techniques, and procedures.
- Familiarity with structural design techniques, tools, and principles for technical plans, drawings, and models.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency with MS Office applications.
- Must not require work authorization sponsorship in the U.S.
Valued Skills And Experience
- Bachelor's or Master's of Science from an ABET-approved program.
- Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and Engineer in Training designation.
- Experience in writing and supporting structural engineering calculations.
- Familiarity with structural analysis software (e.g., MathCad, STAAD PRO, SAP2000, SAFE, GT STRUDL, ANSYS).
- Familiarity with design codes and standards (e.g., IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, N690, ACI 318, ACI 349).
AI & Automation
- Willingness to solve problems using modern tools, including automation and AI, to improve workflows and deliver cost-effective designs.
- Experience building or using automation for calculations, document summarization, or drafting design documentation.
- Programming or scripting skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) are valued.
- Additional learning in Computer Science, AI, or Software Engineering is a plus.
Award-Winning Benefits
Sargent & Lundy offers comprehensive healthcare plans, generous paid time off, and a commitment to work-life balance. We were recognized with the Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Key skills/competency
- Structural Analysis
- Steel Design
- Concrete Design
- Nuclear Engineering
- Project Engineering
- Design Calculations
- Structural Steel
- Reinforced Concrete
- ASCE 7
- ACI 318
Skills & topics
- Structural Engineer
- Nuclear Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Structural Analysis
- Steel Design
- Concrete Design
- Entry Level
- FE Exam
- ASCE 7
- ACI 318
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight your academic background in Structural/Civil Engineering, coursework in steel and concrete design, and any relevant project experience. Quantify achievements where possible.
- Showcase technical skills: Emphasize your knowledge of materials, structural analysis, and familiarity with relevant design codes and software, even if basic.
- Demonstrate AI/Automation interest: Mention any programming, scripting, or coursework related to AI and automation, showcasing your eagerness to use modern tools.
- Prepare for interviews: Be ready to discuss your understanding of structural engineering principles, your problem-solving approach, and your interest in the nuclear industry.
Technical preparation
Review structural analysis principles.,Practice steel and concrete design calculations.,Familiarize with relevant engineering software.,Study nuclear industry design codes.
Behavioral questions
Describe a complex engineering problem solved.,How do you handle project challenges?,Explain your approach to teamwork.,Discuss your interest in nuclear energy.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the typical career progression paths for a Structural Engineer at Sargent & Lundy?
- As an Entry-Level Structural Engineer at Sargent & Lundy, you will begin with foundational project assignments and receive mentorship. Progression typically involves advancing to a Structural Engineer role, then to Senior Structural Engineer, and potentially to Lead Engineer or Managerial positions within the Nuclear Power Group, depending on performance and interests. Opportunities also exist to specialize in areas like advanced reactor technology or SMRs.
- What kind of projects will I work on as an Entry-Level Structural Engineer at Sargent & Lundy?
- You will contribute to a variety of projects within the Nuclear Power Group, including the design of new nuclear facilities, betterment projects for existing plants, and associated modifications. This can involve structural analysis and design for steel frames, concrete members, equipment supports, and foundations, considering loads like wind and seismic.
- Does Sargent & Lundy sponsor work authorization for this Structural Engineer position?
- No, Sargent & Lundy does not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position. Candidates must have existing U.S. work authorization.
- What is the role of AI and automation in this Structural Engineer position?
- Sargent & Lundy encourages engineers to use modern tools like AI and automation to solve problems, improve workflows, and reduce rework. This can involve automating calculations, summarizing technical documents, or drafting design documentation, with a strong emphasis on engineering judgment and verification.
- What is the expected compensation for an Entry-Level Structural Engineer at Sargent & Lundy?
- The compensation range for this position is $62,998 - $90,586 annually. This is a base salary, and the total compensation package also includes comprehensive benefits and potential for a yearly discretionary bonus.
- What are the key qualifications for the Entry-Level Structural Engineer role?
- Key qualifications include a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Structural/Civil or Architectural Engineering, coursework in steel and concrete design, a strong academic record, excellent communication skills, and proficiency in MS Office. Knowledge of structural analysis and design principles is essential.
- Are there opportunities for travel in this role?
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