Mechanical Design Engineer - Steam Path

Belcan • Cincinnati, OH

424d • $124,800 - $145,600

About The Position

The Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (Steam Turbine) is a technical leader responsible for conducting onsite Steam Path Audits (SPA) at power generation facilities. This role involves comprehensive assessments of steam turbine efficiency and mechanical integrity, advanced data analysis, oversight of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), and providing high-level recommendations for turbine repairs, maintenance, and design enhancements. The Level III Engineer plays a key role in diagnosing complex operational issues, advising customers on strategic improvements, and mentoring junior engineers.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Power Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum 10 years in power generation or steam turbine engineering, with expertise in SPA, mechanical diagnostics, and thermodynamic optimization. Proven ability to lead complex turbine inspections and resolve critical operational challenges.
• Technical Expertise: Extensive knowledge of ASME PTC 6 standards, TDP-1, and ISO codes. Proficiency in diagnosing turbine wear, alignment, and steam flow inefficiencies.
• Software Skills: Advanced experience with tools such as ANSYS (FEA), CFX (CFD), OSIsoft PI, and CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks or AutoCAD). Familiarity with digital twin technology for predictive maintenance.
• Leadership and Communication: Strong leadership and mentoring abilities, with excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and customer engagement.
• Travel Requirements: Willingness to travel to customer sites, with extended on-site presence during audits or significant maintenance projects.

Nice To Haves

• Certifications: ASNT Level III certification in NDT (Ultrasonic Testing, Eddy Current Testing, or Magnetic Particle Testing) strongly preferred.
• PE license preferred.
• Safety Training: OSHA 30-Hour Certification and NFPA 70.

Responsibilities

• Lead Steam Path Audits (SPA): Plan, coordinate, and execute comprehensive audits across high-pressure, intermediate-pressure, and low-pressure steam path sections, identifying wear patterns, mechanical degradation, and inefficiencies.
• Advanced Data Collection and Analysis: Direct the collection and analysis of operational data, including clearances, alignment, and mechanical wear, utilizing advanced software tools for real-time monitoring and diagnostics.
• Thermodynamic and Mechanical Assessments: Conduct detailed thermodynamic evaluations following ANSI/ASME PTC 6 and ISO standards to identify efficiency losses and optimize performance through simulations and assessments.
• Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Oversight: Supervise NDT processes such as ultrasonic, eddy current, and dye penetrant testing. Analyze results to evaluate structural integrity and component degradation.
• Technical Reporting and Recommendations: Develop comprehensive audit reports, including thermodynamic analysis, CAD schematics, efficiency evaluations, and actionable recommendations for component repairs and upgrades.
• Mentorship and Training: Mentor junior engineers and technicians in SPA methodologies, inspection techniques, and data analysis best practices. Conduct training to ensure quality and consistency.
• Customer Liaison and Strategic Support: Serve as the primary technical contact for customers, presenting findings and recommendations, addressing technical inquiries, and advising on lifecycle management and performance optimization strategies.
• Engineering Software Utilization: Apply advanced tools such as ANSYS (FEA), CFX (CFD), and digital twin technology for performance simulation and operational diagnostics.

Benefits

• Full benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree