Structural Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear (Summer 2027)
This entry-level Structural Engineer role at Confidential Client offers the opportunity to apply and expand knowledge in structural engineering within the nuclear power sector. The position involves performing structural analysis and design for nuclear facilities, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and utilizing modern tools including automation and AI to enhance engineering workflows. The role includes mentorship, potential site visits, and contributing to innovative clean energy projects.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering (Nuclear Power).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
This entry-level Structural Engineer role supports nuclear power projects and offers an opportunity to apply academic structural engineering knowledge in a professional environment. You will join multidisciplinary engineering teams working on new nuclear facilities, plant betterment, and related modifications. Primary responsibilities include:
- Perform structural analysis and design for steel frames, connections, concrete members, equipment and piping supports, and foundations using industry-standard tools.
- Prepare design calculations, develop specifications, and produce supporting documentation for drawings.
- Evaluate loading conditions including wind and seismic loads, and apply relevant codes and standards.
- Collaborate with designers and other engineers across disciplines to integrate structural solutions into project designs.
- Participate in design reviews, construction coordination, and field verification as required.
- Use automation and modern tools (including appropriate AI-assisted methods) to improve workflows, reduce rework, and document engineering work.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and check structural calculations and technical documentation.
- Support development of design drawings and specifications.
- Apply structural design principles for steel and reinforced concrete elements.
- Analyze load paths and support designs for equipment and piping.
- Follow applicable codes and standards in design work and documentation.
- Communicate technical findings clearly, both written and verbal.
- Participate in mentoring and training programs; accept on-the-job learning and feedback.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Structural, Civil, or Architectural Engineering (or equivalent) with coursework in steel and concrete design.
- Strong academic background in behavior of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design.
- Knowledge of structural design techniques, loads analysis, and practical application of engineering principles.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Must be authorized to work in the U.S.; this position does not provide U.S. work-authorization sponsorship.
Valued (but not required) / Nice-to-Have Skills
- Degree from an ABET-accredited program.
- Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam completion and EIT designation.
- Familiarity with structural analysis software such as MathCAD, STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, SAFE, GT STRUDL, or ANSYS.
- Familiarity with codes and standards: IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, N690, ACI 318, ACI 349.
- Programming/scripting experience (Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations and checks.
- Experience documenting structural engineering calculations and producing support documentation.
AI & Automation Expectations
- Use data and modern tools, including automation and appropriate AI-assisted methods, to move engineering issues toward verified solutions.
- Where used, apply engineering judgment and verification to outputs from automation or AI tools.
- Automation-savvy candidates (scripting or building calculation tools) are highly valued, though not mandatory.
Compensation & Benefits
- Compensation range (base salary): $62,998 - $90,586 per year.
- Comprehensive benefits typically include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), EAP, FSA/HSA, paid time off, parental leave, tuition assistance, licensure bonuses, and flexible work arrangements.
- Potential for discretionary annual bonus depending on role and performance.
- Training, mentorship, and opportunities to travel to client/vendor offices and site visits as projects require.
Work Location & Other Requirements
- Location: Ridgeside, TN (Chattanooga area). This is an on-site / local-office role with potential travel for design reviews and construction coordination.
- Employment type: Full-time.
- The client does not sponsor U.S. work authorization for this position.
About the Business Unit
Our client’s Nuclear Power Group provides engineering and design services for nuclear projects including small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology, plant life extensions, digital modernization, and international new-build projects. The team emphasizes safety, innovation, and sustainability while delivering technical solutions for low-carbon energy.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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