Conceptual Design Principal Engineer- Power Generation Thermal Cycles

Southern Company • Birmingham, AL

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Leads and coordinates multi-discipline engineering studies including direct performance of conceptual design of new power generation facilities (steam cycles, combined cycles, simple cycle combustion turbines, CCS integration). Owns studies from initiation through final deliverables with the end result of providing accurate, decision-enabling information to customers and stakeholders on the agreed upon schedule. Coordinates inputs from OEMs, vendors, consultants and other parties to optimize interface conditions between major equipment. Supports commercial efforts associated with new power generation facilities. Leads efforts and technical evaluation associated with upgrades to existing power generation assets and supports commercial efforts associated with these upgrades. Monitors and evaluates emerging technologies (e.g., supercritical CO2 cycles and energy storage) and develops major equipment specifications and interface requirements for power generation facilities.

Requirements

• BS degree Engineering from an ABET accredited college/university is required.
• Mechanical or Chemical Engineering degree strongly preferred, other degrees considered if candidate has relevant experience, knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Extensive experience with conceptual engineering/design and specification of major equipment for power generation facilities.
• Work experience with process plant and combined cycle modeling software (e.g. AspenPlus, Hysys, Promax, Gate Cycle, Thermoflex, etc.) is required.
• Experience evaluating thermal performance upgrades to existing power generation assets and coordination with various stakeholders and vendors.
• Candidate should have demonstrated project management experience and skills.
• Candidate shall have a strong analytical ability, proficiently applying thermodynamic, heat transfer, and fluid mechanic principles to conceptual design activities and troubleshooting.
• Candidate should understand business goals and be capable of optimizing the power cycle / plant upgrade based on these goals.
• Strong oral and written communication skills are required.
• Candidate is expected to effectively communicate with all project stakeholders, including clients, business partners, technical peers, management, and equipment suppliers.
• Must be proficient in MS Office applications and possess excellent computer skills for the analysis and modeling tools necessary for the job duties.
• Exhibit Safety First attitudes and behaviors.
• Maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Be flexible, adapting easily to changing priorities.
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple, complex project assignments in a team environment with diverse disciplines and backgrounds.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree or P.E. license is preferred.
• Extensive experience with Thermoflow is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Leads and coordinates multi-discipline engineering studies including direct performance of conceptual design of new power generation facilities (steam cycles, combined cycles, simple cycle combustion turbines, CCS integration).
• Owns studies from initiation through final deliverables with the end result of providing accurate, decision-enabling information to customers and stakeholders on the agreed upon schedule.
• Coordinates inputs from OEMs, vendors, consultants and other parties to optimize interface conditions between major equipment.
• Supports commercial efforts associated with new power generation facilities.
• Leads efforts and technical evaluation associated with upgrades to existing power generation assets and supports commercial efforts associated with these upgrades.
• Monitors and evaluates emerging technologies (e.g., supercritical CO2 cycles and energy storage) and develops major equipment specifications and interface requirements for power generation facilities.
• Supervision of direct reports may be required.
• Candidates should expect to lead diverse teams.
• Define the major equipment requirements as they relate to process / performance / interface conditions.
• Author and coordinate multi-discipline studies.
• Guide the organization of large volumes of data for internal use and future reference.
• Lead the decision-making process regarding cycle design and thermal performance optimization for new units and upgrades to existing units.
• Conduct all activities with a focus on providing value to our customers.

Benefits

• Competitive Pay
• Excellent benefits packages which includes: Medical and dental coverage
• Defined Pension/Cash Balance Benefit Plan
• Performance Pay Program
• 401(k) plan with a generous company match
• Bonus opportunities
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Relocation assistance may be provided if the successful candidate does not currently live within a reasonable commuting distance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior