Mechanical Engineer - Power Generation

Kimley-Horn • Charlotte, NC

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Kimley-Horn's Charlotte (NC) office is seeking a Mechanical Engineer with 10+ years of experience to join their Power Generation team. This role involves leading mechanical engineering efforts for natural gas and coal-fired power generation projects, including designing and supporting systems related to Air Quality Control and Effluent Limitation Guidelines. The engineer will also perform comprehensive piping system design, develop and review P&IDs, conduct equipment condition assessments, design plumbing systems, engineer pumping and piping systems, and specify and coordinate instrumentation. The position requires close collaboration with industry professionals, jurisdictions, and contractors.

Requirements

• 10+ years of relevant engineering design experience in Power Generation
• Professional Engineering (P.E.) A license in Mechanical Engineering or a relevant degree
• Strong technical engineering focus
• Understand project life cycle, feasibility studies, competitive bidding of large power plants, engineering and construction of large power plants, commissioning, and operations phase of the plant.
• Strong power engineering background for power plant projects and familiar with owners’ engineer and/or technical advisory services, including feasibility and conceptual studies.
• Experience with task management, concept design, and assisting with project management tasks
• Familiar with coordinating with clients, attending client meetings, and overseeing quality standards

Nice To Haves

• Experience with simple cycle, combined cycle plants using natural gas, fuel oil, and diesel and/or coal-fired generation is preferred.
• Experience in GT Pro or similar gas power performance modelling software would be beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Prepare cost estimates, project work plans, and schedules.
• Perform work requiring independent judgment in evaluating, selecting, adapting, and modifying standard engineering methods and criteria.
• Provide guidance, technical direction, and mentorship to junior team members.
• Maintain regular communication and coordination with clients and external partners.
• Lead mechanical engineering efforts for natural gas and coal‑fired power generation projects.
• Design and support systems related to Air Quality Control and Effluent Limitation Guidelines.
• Perform comprehensive piping system design, including pipe and valve selection/sizing, material selection (fittings, gaskets, etc.), pipe routing, and pipe support design.
• Develop and review P&IDs to ensure accurate representation of system components and operation.
• Conduct mechanical equipment condition assessments and perform lifecycle cost analyses.
• Design plumbing systems for sanitary and potable water applications.
• Engineer pumping and piping systems for a variety of fluids and gases, including blowers, steam, and compressed air.
• Select and size tanks and vessels to meet project and process requirements.
• Specify and coordinate instrumentation selection and placement for pumps, tanks, and vessels.
• Work closely and collaboratively with other industry leading professionals, various jurisdictions, and contractors.

Benefits

• Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to-1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
• Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
• Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
• Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.

What This Job Offers

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