Lead Architect Nuclear

Description

This is a hybrid position with the ability to work from our Downtown Chicago Office (3 days a week) and remotely (2 days a week).

• Work on challenging assignments with an internationally recognized architectural/engineering firm that includes industrial, commercial and laboratory projects while focusing on power and power related projects, which include from time to time, first-of-a-kind projects with unique requirements
• Projects include investigating, troubleshooting, and solving a wide variety of architectural and engineering issues for power plant projects, related administration and security facilities, industrial projects, laboratories, and commercial facilities
• Projects include working with diverse clients including National Laboratories to implement designs that include emerging technologies and new carbon-free energy sources
• Coordinate the architectural design with other disciplines as well as outside consultants, such as laboratory consultants, civil, structural, HVAC, fire protection, electrical, mechanical and plumbing
• Develop and interpret the design basis criteria and work on architectural designs to meet the functional requirements of each project
• Modify and adapt existing architectural design features to meet a variety of situations and emerging design trends
• Present architectural design recommendations and proposals to staff and clients
• Assist in the preparation of 3D electronic design models, preliminary and final construction documents and specification sections for buildings and equipment enclosures
• Conduct code and life safety analysis for complex architectural designs and develop safety reference drawings in support of the analysis
• Conduct energy code analysis so that the architectural drawings and details associated with the building envelope are consistent with or exceed the code requirements and utilize appropriate details to ensure an energy efficient building envelope
• Review and coordinate vendor submittals for conformity with construction documents
• Develop your career via peer-learning through sharing of knowledge by way of S&L’s system of processes and associated “Communities of Practice”
• Provide guidance as a mentor to less experienced architects and architectural designers
• Occasional travel is required

Qualifications

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

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Professional BA (5 year) or MA in Architecture from an accredited program
• A minimum of 10 years of demonstrated experience in the development of commercial and industrial projects in 2D software such as AutoCAD or 3D software such as REVIT
• Current registration as a licensed or registered architect and willingness to obtain licensure in additional jurisdictions
• NCARB Membership or the ability to obtain NCARB Membership, is required
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and REVIT or another mainstream 3D software is required
• Proficiency in MicroStation is a plus but not required
• Advanced 3D software modeling experience is required
• A willingness to learn other 2D and 3D software platforms is a requirement and is dependent on client needs
• Experience writing and/or reviewing Architectural Specifications is required
• Experience utilizing building and life safety codes, such as IBC, IECC, NFPA, ADAAG, OSHA
• Experience developing project specific code analysis and life safety drawings is required
• Experience utilizing materials and details used in commercial and industrial building designs is required
• Experience working collaboratively with other disciplines and clients
• Experience in reviewing design drawings created by others

Valued but not required skills and experience

• LEED Certification or Envision experience
• Tekla, Open Buildings Designer

AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy

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.

Award-Winning Benefits

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.

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!

Awards & Recognition

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.