Summer 2026 Internship – Thermodynamics & Power Plant Performance (Vistra Corporation)

Vistra Corp • Irving, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Vistra is a Fortune 500 integrated retail electricity and power generation company. Our Power Optimization Center (POC) leverages advanced monitoring, diagnostics, and optimization technologies to ensure reliability, efficiency, and innovation across our diverse fleet of generation assets. We are seeking a Summer 2026 Intern to join our POC team with a focus on thermodynamics and performance analysis of power plants. This role is ideal for students pursuing mechanical engineering, energy systems, or related disciplines who want to apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges in the energy sector. Interns will gain exposure to performance monitoring, efficiency optimization, and diagnostic strategies that support safe, reliable, and cost-effective operations.

Requirements

• Pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Energy Systems, Nuclear Engineering, or related field.
• Strong foundation in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
• Familiarity with power plant operations and energy conversion systems preferred.
• Proficiency in at least one programming or modeling tool (Python, MATLAB, Aspen Plus, or similar).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills for presenting technical concepts clearly.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.
• Students sponsored through Optical Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) are NOT eligible for this internship.
• Official transcripts must be received from your school prior to start date
• Must be in good academic standing with your school

Responsibilities

• Analyze thermodynamic cycles and performance data from Vistra’s fleet of power plants.
• Support the development of models and tools to evaluate plant efficiency, heat rate, and output.
• Collaborate with engineers to identify performance bottlenecks and optimization opportunities.
• Assist in creating dashboards and reports that track key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Document findings and present project outcomes to the POC team and leadership.
• Will be assigned various engineering projects.
• Comply with safety policy and procedures to ensure a safe working environment
• Possess the ability to work independently and in a fast paced environment
• All other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Hands-on experience with power plant performance monitoring and optimization.
• Exposure to enterprise-scale diagnostic systems within Vistra’s POC.
• Mentorship from experienced engineers specializing in thermodynamics and plant operations.
• Opportunity to present your work to senior leadership and contribute to operational innovation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees