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Contract Power Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Mechanical Power Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$104K - $126K/yr

Check design deliverables in accordance with industry codes and standards, contract requirements ... the Power or Heavy Industrial Market Sectors. * Engineering experience in the following areas:

We are seeking a qualified Senior Electrical Engineer to help our clients develop, contract, and ... The Senior Electrical Power Engineer candidate should have experience within the utility scale ...

Senior Mechanical Power Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

As a result, our national Power Generation team is poised for monumental growth ... We are seeking a qualified Senior Mechanical Engineer to help our clients develop, contract, and ...

Senior Traction Power Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $186K/yr

Given our growing business, Arup is looking for an accomplished Senior Traction Power Engineer ... contract, and you will be instrumental in developing Arup's business and capability in Traction ...

Senior Electrical Power Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$105K - $137K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Senior Electrical Engineer to help our clients develop, contract, and ... The Senior Electrical Power Engineer candidate should have experience within the utility scale ...

Senior Electrical Power Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$105K - $137K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Senior Electrical Engineer to help our clients develop, contract, and ... The Senior Electrical Power Engineer candidate should have experience within the utility scale ...

As a result, our national Power Generation team is poised for monumental growth ... We are seeking a qualified Senior Mechanical Engineer to help our clients develop, contract, and ...

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Contract Power Engineer information

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$30

$48

$99

How much do contract power engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract power engineer in the United States is $48.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.11 and $50.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Contract Power Engineer do?

A Contract Power Engineer is a temporary or freelance professional responsible for designing, analyzing, and maintaining power systems. They work on a contractual basis for utilities, industries, or engineering firms, ensuring compliance with regulations and optimizing energy efficiency. Their tasks may include system design, troubleshooting, testing, and managing upgrades. Because they work on contracts, they may handle multiple projects for different clients. This role requires expertise in power distribution, generation, and transmission.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Contract Power Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Power Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, power systems analysis, and experience with utility or industrial power projects, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and, often, a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard software like ETAP, PowerWorld, and AutoCAD, as well as knowledge of applicable codes and regulations, is important. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and the ability to work independently with multiple stakeholders are key soft skills. These skills ensure high-quality project delivery, safe and reliable power system solutions, and successful collaboration on contract-based assignments.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Power Engineers and how can they be addressed?

Contract Power Engineers often face the challenge of quickly adapting to different project environments and clients while managing tight deadlines. They may need to work with diverse teams or clients who have varying expectations and technical standards. Building strong communication channels and staying organized helps in overcoming these challenges, as does staying current with the latest industry standards and software tools. Seeking clarification on project scopes early and establishing clear deliverables can also make transitions between contracts smoother and more successful.

More about Contract Power Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Power Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Power Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Power Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Power Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Power Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Power Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Power Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Contract Power Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,781 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Lead Mechanical Power Engineer

Lead Mechanical Power Engineer

HDR

Tampa, FL • On-site

$104K - $126K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 368 rated engineering


Job description

#LI-JG9

About Us
At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists. That's why we believe diversity is our greatest strength. HDR is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and an affirmative action employer.

We believe electricity powers modern life. As part of our Power sector, you'll help shape how electricity is generated, transmitted and delivered as global energy demands grow. From massive data centers to modernizing transmission systems, our industry-recognized engineers and scientists have been at the forefront of grid transformation for more than a century. You'll work side-by-side with these experts and contribute to reliable, resilient and sustainable power systems, helping communities thrive and industries expand. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to drive infrastructure forward, power innovation and leave your mark on our energy future.

Our Power Generation and Renewable department in the Southeast is growing rapidly and there is an opportunity to join on the front end and become a key team member with endless potential for career growth.


Primary Responsibilities

HDR is seeking a highly motivated Lead Mechanical Engineer with a strong work ethic.  This individual will be a key member of HDR's rapidly growing engineering team and will provide day-to-day execution of mechanical engineering and design deliverables for power generating facilities; primarily simple cycle, combined cycle, PV solar, battery energy storage and microgrid. It is expected that the successful candidate will support the following: 

  • Lead, manage, and coordinate the work of the design team through the schematic design development and contract document phase of a project.
  • Lead, manage, mentor and develop less experienced engineers and designers. 
  • Manage and coordinate workload to complete the deliverables on schedule.
  • Conduct field visits at the project site in conjunction with the Project Manager and other disciplines.
  • Perform high complexity engineering designs including analysis, calculations, research, and equipment selection
  • Develop mechanical piping and instrument diagrams (P&IDs) for power plant systems including steam cycles, boiler feed, condensate, water treatment, flue gas, hydrogen, fuel handling, heat transfer systems, and utility systems
  • Prepare sizing calculations and specifications for major equipment including, but not limited to, boilers, condensers, cooling towers, tanks, blowers and pumps
  • Prepare mechanical engineering designs, equipment lists, general arrangements, aux power demands, and process flow diagrams (PFDs)
  • Check design deliverables in accordance with industry codes and standards, contract requirements and company standards
  • Prepare requisite mechanical documentation for construction
  • Assist in the development of schedules, work assignments, and staffing requirements to ensure successful project completion
  • Provide technical mentoring and/or oversight
  • Balance multiple engineering tasks concurrently
  • Testing and commissioning plans.
  • Review of engineering work deliverables following HDR Quality Process.
  • Lead project teams and provide status updates as needed.
  • Maintain good relationships with peers, client organizations, vendor representatives and sub-consultants.
  • Identify and develop new strategic relationships that will support winning and executing assignments for the Power Generation and Renewable team and other groups within HDR.
  • Occasional travel is required.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar.
  • Previous supervisory experience.
  • Previous proposal development and client management experience.
  • A minimum of 7 years' experience in project execution with the Power or Heavy Industrial Market Sectors.
  • Engineering experience in the following areas:
  • Design experience for simple/combined cycle gas turbines, renewables, coal and hydroelectric 
  • Mechanical powerhouse and balance of plant controls and power systems. 
  • Knowledge of large-scale power generation mechanical systems 
  • Prior experience in a consulting engineering environment is highly desirable.
  • Produce design drawings including one-lines, three-lines, schematics, general arrangements, and bill of materials.
  • Experience developing proposals and estimates for Power Generation and Renewable projects.
  • Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering
  • A minimum of 10 years of experience
  • Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
  • Extensive experience in project execution within the Power Market Sector
  • Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Office as well as standard Power Market Sector design software (examples include PLS CAD, AutoCAD, Plant 3D, AutoPipe, and Revit)
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.


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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917