Contractual Thermodynamic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Description Power Plant Cycle Performance Engineer Position Overview A Houston engineering and construction firm is adding a Power Plant Cycle Performance Engineer to its power practice. This position focuses on how generating facilities behave under real operating conditions-not merely how they perform at a single design point. The engineer will use thermodynamic modeling, operating data, and field-test results to improve output, heat rate, flexibility, and lifecycle value across simple-cycle and combined-cycle plants.

The role also supports new facility development, equipment selection, modernization studies, and performance validation. Core Responsibilities Create and refine thermodynamic models for gas-turbine and combined-cycle configurations. Predict plant performance across changes in ambient temperature, humidity, elevation, fuel composition, equipment condition, and operating load.

Quantify expected output, heat rate, auxiliary consumption, steam production, cooling demand, and other key performance indicators. Compare plant data with model predictions to identify degradation, losses, or operating constraints. Analyze historian, DCS, SCADA, and performance-test data using sound engineering and statistical methods.

Evaluate cycle alternatives during feasibility studies, technology selection, and front-end engineering. Assess opportunities involving turbine upgrades, HRSG modifications, inlet conditioning, condenser improvements, cooling-system changes, and balance-of-plant optimization. Examine the effect of cycling, rapid starts, part-load operation, and changing dispatch requirements on plant performance.

Support the technical evaluation of generation equipment and performance guarantees. Develop test procedures and assist with field testing under applicable ASME Performance Test Codes. Correct test results to agreed reference conditions and document whether contractual requirements have been met.

Reconcile discrepancies among supplier predictions, engineering models, and observed plant results. Present findings in a form that supports investment, design, operating, and commercial decisions. Partner with mechanical, electrical, controls, commissioning, operations, and OEM teams.

Contribute to hybrid-generation studies involving energy storage or other grid-supporting technologies. 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. Preferred 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. Ideal Candidate Profile The ideal candidate is naturally skeptical of unexplained performance gaps, comfortable working with imperfect field data, and able to distinguish a model limitation from a genuine equipment or operating problem.