Lead Mechanical Engineer

- Regular/Permanent

- USA / Tennessee

- In Office

Welcome to Orano

Helping to meet current and future challenges to preserve our world and build the world of tomorrow while taking care of everyone's health is stimulating for you. For us too. By joining the Orano Group, a leading international player in the nuclear industry, you are in the right place.

Every day we work to produce efficient low-carbon energy, to fight global warming, to find solutions that save natural resources, and to contribute to progress in health.

Our strengths? Across the entire fuel cycle, we have extensive expertise in cutting-edge technologies, safe, high value-added products and services, and a strong capacity for innovation. All of these factors reflect the strong skills of our 17,000 employees, whom we are constantly striving to develop. With their different backgrounds and experience, they are proof of our openness to all talents. They share the same ambition: to give nuclear energy its full value.

Job description

Orano, we’re not just powering the future—we’re engineering its foundation. As part of our groundbreaking uranium enrichment IKE Program, we’re redefining what sustainable nuclear fuel production looks like for the next generation.

We’re seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to drive complex facility and process system projects from concept to reality. You’ll lead the mechanical engineering scope on a major nuclear project, serving as both a technical expert and a team leader. From design to execution, your work will ensure that our mechanical systems are safe, efficient, and built to perform — while coordinating closely with a range of disciplines to deliver fully integrated solutions.

You’ll work shoulder-to-shoulder with elite engineers and regulatory experts, moving fast, solving hard problems, and making decisions that have real-world consequences. If you're ready to lead at the edge of what's possible in nuclear technology, we want to talk.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead design, analysis, and specification of mechanical systems including piping, large mechanical equipment, and process machinery.

- Serve as the authority on mechanical systems, mentoring junior engineers and reviewing deliverables.

- Oversee and coordinate the work of the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor, ensuring compliance with design intent, safety, schedule, and quality expectations.

- Ensure all work aligns with key industry codes and standards (ASME, ANSI).

- Collaborate with cross-functional teams — including civil, electrical, I&C, and process engineers — to deliver cohesive, high-performance designs.

- Review and approve detailed calculations, equipment specifications, construction drawings, and technical reports.

- Perform site visits, field assessments, and mechanical inspections throughout design and construction phases.

Anticipate, assess, and resolve technical challenges in mechanical systems and equipment integration.

Our Full-Time Benefits

- Competitive compensation

- Health, Dental, and Vision insurance – with generous employer contributions

- 401(k) with employer matching and contribution amounts

- Life insurance and Short- and Long-Term Disability insurance provided by the company

- Generous Paid Time Off and holiday schedules

- Numerous Training and Development opportunities

- and more…

Ideal qualifications

Requirements

- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering (Master’s degree preferred).

- 6+ years of progressively responsible experience in mechanical engineering for industrial or nuclear facilities.

- Proven leadership experience in managing large-scale projects on multidisciplinary engineering teams.

- Must be eligible to obtain a security clearance if required by the project.

Licenses & Certifications

- Additional certifications in mechanical systems or nuclear engineering preferred.

Skills and Competencies

- Strong expertise in mechanical design and analysis software such as Auto PIPE, Caesar II, ANSYS, SolidWorks, or similar.

- Knowledge of relevant codes and standards including ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code, ASME B31 piping codes.

- Excellent organizational skills.

- Effective communication and leadership abilities, with the capability to lead teams and interact with clients.

- Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

Orano is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, citizenship, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic predisposition or carrier status or any other characteristic protected by law.