Expert, Hydro Generation Mechanical Engineer
PG&E - Danville, CA
posted 3 months ago
About the position
The Expert Hydro Generation Mechanical Engineer position at PG&E Corporation is a critical role within the Applied Technology Services (ATS) department, which provides high-quality technical services and expertise across various business lines, including the Diablo Canyon Power Plant. This position is based at PG&E's San Ramon Technology Center and involves working with a multi-disciplinary team of approximately 120 engineers and technical personnel. The ATS Mechanical Engineering Services (MES) and Numeric Analysis team focuses on mechanical engineering testing, inspections, and engineering services to support the PG&E system, particularly in hydro power generation. As an Expert Rotating Machinery Mechanical Engineer, you will lead a test team responsible for executing performance testing and analysis of equipment and components across the PG&E system, with a specific focus on hydro powerhouses. This includes working with various types of rotating machinery such as turbine-generators, compressors, and pumps, as well as governors, control systems, and associated systems. The role requires a combination of testing and data analysis to provide practical solutions to complex issues faced by internal clients. You will be involved in plant condition assessments, predictive maintenance testing, failure analysis, and performance assessments, ensuring that safety remains the highest priority throughout all operations. Candidates for this position should possess strong analytical skills and the ability to understand and assess the business needs of clients. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to collaborate effectively with team members and clients to ensure successful project outcomes. The position also offers opportunities for professional growth and development within the field of mechanical engineering, particularly in hydro power generation.
Responsibilities
- Lead tests and coordinate scope with internal clients.
- Complete assignments with a broad scope and complexity focused on practical resolutions.
- Collaborate with team to determine scope, schedule, budget, and resources needed for successful test outcomes.
- Develop test protocols and designs on complex systems to meet project objectives.
- Expand knowledge in other areas of specialty or discipline, developing breadth or further specialization.
- Collaborate with peers to prepare technical reports and identify, define, and solve problems.
- Execute multiple projects concurrently and lead development of test protocols and technologies.
- Analyze data and evaluate performance of parts, assemblies, or systems under simulated or actual operating conditions.
- Compile project test results, prepare presentations, and make recommendations for clients and/or ATS leadership.
- Identify innovations and cost-reduction potential of new and existing technologies.
- Determine customer expectations and ensure project deliverables meet customer satisfaction objectives.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering with an emphasis on related/assigned discipline (Mechanical, Civil, or Electrical Engineering, etc.)
- Seven years of related experience
- Hydro power generation experience
Nice-to-haves
- Master's degree
- P.E. license
- Startup testing of hydro powerhouses
- Demonstrated experience in plant engineering testing concepts and methods
- Experience in the application of predictive maintenance tools including vibration monitoring, governor testing, generator heat runs, and index testing
- Experience in acoustic testing, analysis, and noise mitigation
- CAD and FEA experience such as SolidWorks and ANSYS
- Understanding of quality assurance concepts and practices
- Experience with test instrumentation application and usage
- Strong investigative and analytical problem-solving skills
- Demonstrated communication, presentation, and teamwork skills
- Experience in a client-focused environment
- Good mechanical aptitude
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Opportunities for professional development
- Health insurance
- Retirement savings plan
- Paid time off
- Flexible work arrangements
