Power Plant Cycle Performance Engineer
On-siteHouston, Texas, United States
Job Summary
Create and refine thermodynamic models for gas-turbine and combined-cycle configurations to predict plant performance across ambient conditions, fuel composition, and operating loads. Quantify key metrics such as output, heat rate, and auxiliary consumption by comparing historical DCS and SCADA data against model predictions to identify degradation or constraints. Evaluate cycle alternatives during feasibility studies, assess turbine upgrades and balance-of-plant optimizations, and develop test procedures for field validation under ASME Performance Test Codes. Reconcile discrepancies among supplier predictions, engineering models, and observed results to support investment and design decisions. Partner with mechanical, electrical, controls, and OEM teams while contributing to hybrid-generation studies involving energy storage.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, or a closely related discipline
- Seven or more years of experience in cycle analysis, plant performance, thermal engineering, or power-generation engineering
- Advanced understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, gas-turbine performance, steam cycles, and combined-cycle integration
- Experience developing or applying detailed plant-performance models
- Ability to interpret operating data and convert analysis into clear engineering recommendations
- Strong technical writing and communication skills
Desired Qualifications
- Extensive use of GT PRO, Thermoflow, EBSILON, Aspen, or an equivalent modeling platform
- Experience planning, executing, or analyzing contractual plant-performance tests
- Knowledge of digital twins, predictive analytics, optimization algorithms, or machine-learning applications for industrial assets
- Familiarity with flexible generation, energy storage, or grid-support services
- Professional Engineer license
- Previous work within an EPC, owner's engineering, OEM, or power-plant operating organization
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