What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mechanical Engineer, Design (NPG) C - 518278 position at Tennessee Valley Authority?
External - Posting Description
Mechanical Engineer, Design (NPG) C - 518278
Organization: Nuclear Power Group / Fleet Center
Department: Assets Management Programs
Work Location: This position may be filled at Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in Decatur, AL; Chattanooga Corporate Office in Chattanooga, TN; Sequoyah Nuclear Plant in Soddy Daisy, TN; or Watts Bar Nuclear Plant in Spring City, TN
Relocation: Relocation benefits are not offered for this position
Posting Open: 04/22/2026
Posting Close: 05/02/2026 11:59 PM EST
Salary: Competitive
The ideal candidate for the Motor Operator Valve (MOV) design engineer role is experienced and capable of assuming design responsibilities for MOV Program across the TVA Nuclear Fleet. The candidate will serve as the Subject Matter Expert in MOV design, analysis, testing, and long term program management for MOVs. This individual demonstrates deep expertise in MOV actuator sizing, thrust and torque calculations, valve factor determinations, and switch settings (torque and limit), with a strong knowledge of valve performance under design-basis conditions, including differential pressure, temperature, flow, and degraded voltage scenarios. They are proficient in the use and interpretation of diagnostic testing, including static and dynamic testing, and have demonstrated experience ensuring adequate design and operational margins. We are seeking a collaborative engineer who can seamlessly integrate site-specific design duties into the centralized Asset Management Program while maintaining high standards of technical accuracy and teamwork.
Job Summary
As a Mechanical Design Specialist develops and evaluates plans and criteria for a variety of projects and activities to be carried out by others. Assesses the feasibility and soundness of proposed engineering evaluation tests, products, or equipment when necessary data are insufficient or confirmation by testing is advisable. Usually performs as a staff advisor and consultant as to a technical specialty, a type of facility or equipment, or a program function.
Applies intensive and diversified knowledge of mechanical engineering principles and practices in broad areas of assignments and related fields. Make decisions independently on engineering problems and methods and represents the organization in conferences to receive important questions and to plan and coordinate work. Requires the use of advanced techniques and the modifications and extension of theories, precepts and practices of the field and related sciences and disciplines. The knowledge and expertise required for this level of work usually result from progressive experience.
Supervisory Responsibilities
May supervise, coordinate, and review the work of multidiscipline engineers and technicians or staff specialist may be assisted on projects by other engineers or technicians.
Supervision Received
Supervision and guidance relate largely to overall objectives, critical issues, new concepts, and policy matters. Consults with Mechanical Lead Engineer.
Skills and Proficiencies ( May be job or organization specific)
Education and Experience/Certificates, Licenses, and Registration Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or other related engineering degrees from an accredited curriculum, plus appropriate continuing education. Licensed Professional Engineer desirable. Membership in professional and technical societies is desirable.
Must be able to obtain and maintain unescorted nuclear plant access and S-3 and S-4 medical qualifications when applicable. Must be able and willing to assume “on-call” rotational assignments which may include 24 hour-a-day, 7 day-a-week availability. Must be willing and medically able to work rotating shifts and maximum overtime permitted by TVAN procedures during peak periods. Must be able and willing to travel to plant locations as required when performing assigned tasks and, as necessary, to be temporarily assigned to a field location.
Equal Employment Opportunity
TVA is an Equal Opportunity employer and complies with all applicable laws and regulations regarding equal employment opportunities. Any applicant or employee who believes s/he has a discrimination claim (including harassment or retaliation) must contact TVA’s Equal Opportunity Compliance office within 45 calendar days of the event or action s/he believes to constitute discrimination, harassment, or retaliation.
Drug-Free Workplace
All TVA Non-Nuclear employees are covered by TVA's Federal Drug-Free Workplace Program Plan, in accordance with Executive Order 12564, Public Law 100-71 and the Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing. Information regarding the Drug Free Workplace Program can be found at www.samhsa.gov/workplace . TVA Non-Nuclear employees in Testing Designated Positions, including those performing safety-sensitive duties are also subject to random drug testing. TVA Nuclear employees are subject to random alcohol and drug tests in accordance with 10 CFR Part 26 as mandated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
How To Claim Vet Preference
If you are requesting to be considered as a preference-eligible veteran as outlined in the application process, you must submit your military documents before the posting close date indicated above. Be sure to include all supporting documentation: Form DD214 (member 2 or member 4 copy), a Veterans Disability Rating Letter from the VA (if applicable), and a completed form TVA 3595. If you will not get your DD214 until you are separated or retired, you can request a Statement of Service through your military personnel office. The Statement of Service must list your dates of military service, character of service, expected date of separation and any service-connected disability rating that you have been awarded from your branch of military service. Please submit your military documents each time you apply for a position.
How To Submit Documentation
Mechanical Engineer, Design (NPG) C - 518278
Organization: Nuclear Power Group / Fleet Center
Department: Assets Management Programs
Work Location: This position may be filled at Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in Decatur, AL; Chattanooga Corporate Office in Chattanooga, TN; Sequoyah Nuclear Plant in Soddy Daisy, TN; or Watts Bar Nuclear Plant in Spring City, TN
Relocation: Relocation benefits are not offered for this position
Posting Open: 04/22/2026
Posting Close: 05/02/2026 11:59 PM EST
Salary: Competitive
The ideal candidate for the Motor Operator Valve (MOV) design engineer role is experienced and capable of assuming design responsibilities for MOV Program across the TVA Nuclear Fleet. The candidate will serve as the Subject Matter Expert in MOV design, analysis, testing, and long term program management for MOVs. This individual demonstrates deep expertise in MOV actuator sizing, thrust and torque calculations, valve factor determinations, and switch settings (torque and limit), with a strong knowledge of valve performance under design-basis conditions, including differential pressure, temperature, flow, and degraded voltage scenarios. They are proficient in the use and interpretation of diagnostic testing, including static and dynamic testing, and have demonstrated experience ensuring adequate design and operational margins. We are seeking a collaborative engineer who can seamlessly integrate site-specific design duties into the centralized Asset Management Program while maintaining high standards of technical accuracy and teamwork.
Job Summary
As a Mechanical Design Specialist develops and evaluates plans and criteria for a variety of projects and activities to be carried out by others. Assesses the feasibility and soundness of proposed engineering evaluation tests, products, or equipment when necessary data are insufficient or confirmation by testing is advisable. Usually performs as a staff advisor and consultant as to a technical specialty, a type of facility or equipment, or a program function.
Applies intensive and diversified knowledge of mechanical engineering principles and practices in broad areas of assignments and related fields. Make decisions independently on engineering problems and methods and represents the organization in conferences to receive important questions and to plan and coordinate work. Requires the use of advanced techniques and the modifications and extension of theories, precepts and practices of the field and related sciences and disciplines. The knowledge and expertise required for this level of work usually result from progressive experience.
Supervisory Responsibilities
May supervise, coordinate, and review the work of multidiscipline engineers and technicians or staff specialist may be assisted on projects by other engineers or technicians.
Supervision Received
Supervision and guidance relate largely to overall objectives, critical issues, new concepts, and policy matters. Consults with Mechanical Lead Engineer.
Skills and Proficiencies ( May be job or organization specific)
- Demonstrated high proficiency in one or more technical areas.
- Demonstrated working knowledge in technical areas achieved at Senior Level and as described on performance appraisal.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate and negotiate at all levels of engineering and management.
Education and Experience/Certificates, Licenses, and Registration Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or other related engineering degrees from an accredited curriculum, plus appropriate continuing education. Licensed Professional Engineer desirable. Membership in professional and technical societies is desirable.
Must be able to obtain and maintain unescorted nuclear plant access and S-3 and S-4 medical qualifications when applicable. Must be able and willing to assume “on-call” rotational assignments which may include 24 hour-a-day, 7 day-a-week availability. Must be willing and medically able to work rotating shifts and maximum overtime permitted by TVAN procedures during peak periods. Must be able and willing to travel to plant locations as required when performing assigned tasks and, as necessary, to be temporarily assigned to a field location.
Equal Employment Opportunity
TVA is an Equal Opportunity employer and complies with all applicable laws and regulations regarding equal employment opportunities. Any applicant or employee who believes s/he has a discrimination claim (including harassment or retaliation) must contact TVA’s Equal Opportunity Compliance office within 45 calendar days of the event or action s/he believes to constitute discrimination, harassment, or retaliation.
Drug-Free Workplace
All TVA Non-Nuclear employees are covered by TVA's Federal Drug-Free Workplace Program Plan, in accordance with Executive Order 12564, Public Law 100-71 and the Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing. Information regarding the Drug Free Workplace Program can be found at www.samhsa.gov/workplace . TVA Non-Nuclear employees in Testing Designated Positions, including those performing safety-sensitive duties are also subject to random drug testing. TVA Nuclear employees are subject to random alcohol and drug tests in accordance with 10 CFR Part 26 as mandated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
How To Claim Vet Preference
If you are requesting to be considered as a preference-eligible veteran as outlined in the application process, you must submit your military documents before the posting close date indicated above. Be sure to include all supporting documentation: Form DD214 (member 2 or member 4 copy), a Veterans Disability Rating Letter from the VA (if applicable), and a completed form TVA 3595. If you will not get your DD214 until you are separated or retired, you can request a Statement of Service through your military personnel office. The Statement of Service must list your dates of military service, character of service, expected date of separation and any service-connected disability rating that you have been awarded from your branch of military service. Please submit your military documents each time you apply for a position.
How To Submit Documentation
- Upload documents in Step 7 of the application process.
- Email documents to [email protected]