Tetra Tech
Nuclear Mechanical Engineer – Richland, WA (Remote/Hybrid)
Tetra Tech, Richland, Washington, United States, 99352
Nuclear Mechanical Engineer
to join our growing nuclear engineering team. This role is mechanical engineering–led, with a strong emphasis on applying mechanical design, analysis, and systems engineering within nuclear-regulated environments.
In this position, you will support a nuclear projects, including small modular reactors (SMRs), nuclear facility modifications, and lifecycle engineering activities, working closely with nuclear licensing, regulatory, and multidisciplinary engineering teams. You will also support U.S. Government nuclear nonproliferation programs around the world, including installation, setup, and troubleshooting fixed, mobile, and handheld radiation detection equipment.
This is an excellent opportunity for a mechanical engineer looking to apply their expertise within highly regulated and technically complex environments that directly support national energy infrastructure.
Why Tetra Tech: At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world’s most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development. Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.
Your Impact: Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference. Our work leverages cutting‑edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world‑class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential – join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.
Position Summary: The Nuclear Mechanical Engineer provides mechanical design, analysis, and technical leadership in support of nuclear facilities and systems throughout their lifecycle, from conceptual design through modification, decommissioning, and license termination.
Essential Job Functions: Engineering & Technical Responsibilities:
Apply mechanical engineering principles to nuclear‑regulated systems and facilities
Perform complex engineering analyses and equipment design
Develop and review detailed design packages and technical documentation
Apply expertise in plant systems and operational requirements
Utilize 3D CAD tools (including SolidWorks) for equipment and system design
Perform mechanical engineering design and analysis for nuclear and radiological facilities, systems, and components
Develop and review mechanical design deliverables, including calculations, specifications, drawings, and technical reports
Support system and component design for nuclear facilities, including modifications to operating facilities
Support preparation and review of licensing‑related technical inputs (e.g., safety analysis support, design basis documentation)
Assist with feasibility studies, design development, and technical evaluations
Maintain accurate and complete engineering documentation
Project Execution & Lifecycle Support:
Contribute to projects spanning the full facility lifecycle
Lead mechanical engineering efforts for nuclear power plant modification projects
Support field implementation activities at nuclear facilities
Support project execution with respect to scope, schedule, and budget
Participate in project planning, scheduling, and execution activities
Support design reviews, constructability reviews, and engineering evaluations
Participate in internal and client technical meetings
Regulatory, Licensing & Compliance:
Support designs subject to stringent regulatory, safety, and quality requirements
Interface with nuclear licensing and regulatory staff to ensure mechanical designs align with licensing bases and regulatory commitments
Ensure compliance with applicable nuclear, regulatory, safety, and quality standards
Ensure work is performed in accordance with applicable codes, standards, regulations, and quality assurance programs (e.g., NQA-1 where applicable)
Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
Collaboration, Leadership & Client Engagement:
Collaborate with mechanical, nuclear, electrical, licensing, and quality disciplines
Provide technical leadership and mentoring to engineering staff
Support business development and client engagement efforts as needed
Provide direct engineering support for Tetra Tech’s CONUS and OCONUS CBRN non‑proliferation projects. This will include interfacing and working interactively with U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence Program (NSDD) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Combating Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) National Laboratory and project team personnel.
Safety, Quality & Professional Standards:
Perform work in accordance with Tetra Tech health, safety, and quality policies
Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns.
Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness.
Additional Duties:
Additional duties as required.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related discipline from an accredited institution
5–10+ years of progressive mechanical engineering experience, preferably supporting nuclear, energy, or other highly regulated facilities
Strong foundation in mechanical systems design, analysis, and engineering documentation
Experience working in regulated design environments (nuclear, energy, industrial, or similar)
Familiarity with nuclear regulatory frameworks (e.g., NRC licensing processes, safety analysis interfaces, design basis documentation)
Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary engineering teams
Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency with common engineering tools and software (e.g., MS Office; CAD experience a plus)
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines
Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record without restrictions.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience supporting nuclear licensing activities or interfacing with nuclear regulators (e.g., NRC)
Experience with NSDD
Experience with SMR projects, nuclear facility modifications, or decommissioning activities
Familiarity with NQA-1 quality assurance requirements
Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain
Prior experience working with nuclear operating facilities or utilities
U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a security clearance (if required by project)
Physical Requirements:
Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods
Occasional lifting of materials or equipment (up to approximately 25 pounds)
Ability to participate in site visits and field reviews as required
Primarily office‑based or remote, with periodic travel to project sites or client locations
Occasional exposure to industrial or nuclear facility environments
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
Flexibility and company‑wide commitment to work/life balance.
Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.
A pre‑employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.
Compensation: Pay commensurate with experience.
Pay Range: $120,000 – $160,000 annually
Pay Range
– There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech’s employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.
About Tetra Tech: Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high‑end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science ® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.
We invite applications from all interested parties.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
to join our growing nuclear engineering team. This role is mechanical engineering–led, with a strong emphasis on applying mechanical design, analysis, and systems engineering within nuclear-regulated environments.
In this position, you will support a nuclear projects, including small modular reactors (SMRs), nuclear facility modifications, and lifecycle engineering activities, working closely with nuclear licensing, regulatory, and multidisciplinary engineering teams. You will also support U.S. Government nuclear nonproliferation programs around the world, including installation, setup, and troubleshooting fixed, mobile, and handheld radiation detection equipment.
This is an excellent opportunity for a mechanical engineer looking to apply their expertise within highly regulated and technically complex environments that directly support national energy infrastructure.
Why Tetra Tech: At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world’s most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development. Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.
Your Impact: Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference. Our work leverages cutting‑edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world‑class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential – join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.
Position Summary: The Nuclear Mechanical Engineer provides mechanical design, analysis, and technical leadership in support of nuclear facilities and systems throughout their lifecycle, from conceptual design through modification, decommissioning, and license termination.
Essential Job Functions: Engineering & Technical Responsibilities:
Apply mechanical engineering principles to nuclear‑regulated systems and facilities
Perform complex engineering analyses and equipment design
Develop and review detailed design packages and technical documentation
Apply expertise in plant systems and operational requirements
Utilize 3D CAD tools (including SolidWorks) for equipment and system design
Perform mechanical engineering design and analysis for nuclear and radiological facilities, systems, and components
Develop and review mechanical design deliverables, including calculations, specifications, drawings, and technical reports
Support system and component design for nuclear facilities, including modifications to operating facilities
Support preparation and review of licensing‑related technical inputs (e.g., safety analysis support, design basis documentation)
Assist with feasibility studies, design development, and technical evaluations
Maintain accurate and complete engineering documentation
Project Execution & Lifecycle Support:
Contribute to projects spanning the full facility lifecycle
Lead mechanical engineering efforts for nuclear power plant modification projects
Support field implementation activities at nuclear facilities
Support project execution with respect to scope, schedule, and budget
Participate in project planning, scheduling, and execution activities
Support design reviews, constructability reviews, and engineering evaluations
Participate in internal and client technical meetings
Regulatory, Licensing & Compliance:
Support designs subject to stringent regulatory, safety, and quality requirements
Interface with nuclear licensing and regulatory staff to ensure mechanical designs align with licensing bases and regulatory commitments
Ensure compliance with applicable nuclear, regulatory, safety, and quality standards
Ensure work is performed in accordance with applicable codes, standards, regulations, and quality assurance programs (e.g., NQA-1 where applicable)
Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
Collaboration, Leadership & Client Engagement:
Collaborate with mechanical, nuclear, electrical, licensing, and quality disciplines
Provide technical leadership and mentoring to engineering staff
Support business development and client engagement efforts as needed
Provide direct engineering support for Tetra Tech’s CONUS and OCONUS CBRN non‑proliferation projects. This will include interfacing and working interactively with U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence Program (NSDD) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Combating Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) National Laboratory and project team personnel.
Safety, Quality & Professional Standards:
Perform work in accordance with Tetra Tech health, safety, and quality policies
Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns.
Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness.
Additional Duties:
Additional duties as required.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related discipline from an accredited institution
5–10+ years of progressive mechanical engineering experience, preferably supporting nuclear, energy, or other highly regulated facilities
Strong foundation in mechanical systems design, analysis, and engineering documentation
Experience working in regulated design environments (nuclear, energy, industrial, or similar)
Familiarity with nuclear regulatory frameworks (e.g., NRC licensing processes, safety analysis interfaces, design basis documentation)
Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary engineering teams
Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency with common engineering tools and software (e.g., MS Office; CAD experience a plus)
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines
Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record without restrictions.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience supporting nuclear licensing activities or interfacing with nuclear regulators (e.g., NRC)
Experience with NSDD
Experience with SMR projects, nuclear facility modifications, or decommissioning activities
Familiarity with NQA-1 quality assurance requirements
Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain
Prior experience working with nuclear operating facilities or utilities
U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a security clearance (if required by project)
Physical Requirements:
Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods
Occasional lifting of materials or equipment (up to approximately 25 pounds)
Ability to participate in site visits and field reviews as required
Primarily office‑based or remote, with periodic travel to project sites or client locations
Occasional exposure to industrial or nuclear facility environments
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
Flexibility and company‑wide commitment to work/life balance.
Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.
A pre‑employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.
Compensation: Pay commensurate with experience.
Pay Range: $120,000 – $160,000 annually
Pay Range
– There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech’s employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.
About Tetra Tech: Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high‑end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science ® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.
We invite applications from all interested parties.
#J-18808-Ljbffr