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Power Generation Engineering Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Buckeye Power Sales

Inside Sales Engineer

Twinsburg, OH · On-site

$60K - $62K/yr

From power generation to light construction to grounds care - we have the machines, equipment ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction, or Technical Field preferred but not required

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Power Generation Engineering information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Power Generation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Generation Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and practical experience in power systems. Familiarity with industry-standard software (such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and SCADA systems), as well as certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, is often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills set candidates apart in this field. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable generation and delivery of power, supporting critical infrastructure and energy needs.

What engineers make $500,000?

Power generation engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in systems design, and specialized certifications can reach salaries around $500,000, especially in senior or executive roles such as engineering managers or directors in large energy companies. High compensation often reflects leadership responsibilities, project management, and expertise in renewable or nuclear energy sectors.

What are some common challenges faced by power generation engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Power generation engineers often face challenges such as maintaining system reliability, adapting to evolving environmental regulations, and integrating renewable energy sources with traditional power systems. Staying updated with technological advancements and participating in ongoing training can help address these issues. Additionally, effective teamwork with operations, maintenance, and environmental teams is crucial for resolving operational problems and ensuring compliance.

What is power generation engineering?

Power generation engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the design, operation, and maintenance of systems and equipment that produce electricity. Professionals in this field work with various energy sources, including fossil fuels, nuclear, hydroelectric, solar, and wind power, to ensure reliable and efficient electricity generation. They are involved in tasks such as plant design, performance analysis, troubleshooting, and implementing new technologies to improve energy efficiency and sustainability. Power generation engineers play a critical role in meeting the world’s energy needs while addressing environmental and regulatory challenges.

What does a power generation engineer do?

A power generation engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that produce electrical power, such as turbines, generators, and power plants. They analyze system performance, ensure safety and efficiency, and often use tools like CAD software and simulation programs, requiring technical knowledge and relevant certifications. Their work supports reliable energy supply and involves troubleshooting and optimizing power generation processes.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Power generation engineers, including electrical engineers in the energy sector, can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. Such high salaries are typically found in senior positions, specialized consulting, or management within large companies or projects. Entry-level or mid-career electrical engineers usually earn significantly less, with salaries increasing with expertise and responsibility.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Power generation engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in areas such as turbine design, control systems, or project management can earn $200,000 or more annually. Senior roles often require professional licensure, certifications, and leadership responsibilities within large energy companies or infrastructure projects.

What is the difference between Power Generation Engineering vs Power Plant Operations?

AspectPower Generation EngineeringPower Plant Operations
Primary FocusDesign, development, and optimization of power generation systemsDay-to-day running and maintenance of power plants
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Power Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) often preferredTechnical training, certifications in plant operation, and hands-on experience
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, engineering offices, project sitesPower plants, control rooms, maintenance facilities
Industry UsageDesigning new plants, improving existing systemsOperating and maintaining existing power plants

Power Generation Engineering focuses on designing and improving power systems, while Power Plant Operations involves managing the daily functions of power plants. Both roles are essential in the energy sector but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Power Generation Engineering jobs in Ohio? For Power Generation Engineering jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Power Generation Engineering jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Power Generation Engineering jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Power Generation Engineering jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Power Generation Engineering job openings:
Power Generation Engineering jobs near you
Lead Project Estimator-Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure

Lead Project Estimator-Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure

NiSource, Inc.

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

NiSource rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 52 rated energy and utility

Job description

Lead Project Cost Estimator - Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure
Location: Columbus, OH / Valparaiso, IN / Project Sites / Hybrid
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
At NiSource, we are committed to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable energy to the communities we serve. We are seeking a Lead Project Estimator to support the development and execution of major capital power and energy infrastructure projects.
This role plays a critical part in ensuring that cost estimates are accurate, transparent, and aligned with regulatory expectations, supporting sound investment decisions and long-term planning. The Senior Project Estimator partners across engineering, project development, supply chain, and construction teams to develop estimates that reflect technical scope, market conditions, and execution strategy.
Projects may include:
  • Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) generation

  • Simple cycle / peaking generation

  • Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

  • Renewable energy (solar, wind)

  • Transmission interconnections and substations

  • Grid improvement technologies

Key Responsibilities
Cost Estimating & Analysis
  • Lead development of Class 5 through Class 1 estimates in alignment with AACE principles

  • Prepare total installed cost (TIC) estimates including EPC, owner's costs, contingency, and escalation

  • Perform quantity takeoffs from engineering drawings, specifications, and conceptual designs

  • Develop detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and indirect costs

  • Clearly define estimate bases, assumptions, exclusions, and methodologies

  • Prepare estimate packages that are suitable for governance reviews and investment decisions, including basis of estimate documentation, assumptions, exclusions, key risks, and confidence ranges

Capital Planning & Regulatory Support
  • Support capital planning, integrated resource planning (IRP), and long-term investment strategies

  • Provide cost inputs to support regulatory filings, rate cases, and investment approvals

  • Develop estimate ranges and confidence levels aligned to project stage and governance requirements

  • Evaluate alternative project configurations and execution strategies to support least-cost, best-fit solutions

Technical Integration & Project Development
  • Translate engineering scope into cost drivers across major systems, including:

  • Gas turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, and balance of plant

  • Electrical systems, substations, and grid interconnection

  • Energy storage systems (BESS, inverters, controls)

  • Participate in technology selection, site evaluations, and constructability reviews

  • Support project development activities from early-stage screening through execution readiness

Risk, Market Awareness & Benchmarking
  • Perform cost validation, benchmarking, and estimate reconciliation

  • Lead risk assessment and contingency development, incorporating uncertainty and market variability

  • Monitor and incorporate:

  • Labor availability and productivity trends

  • Commodity pricing and escalation

  • Equipment and supply chain constraints

  • Maintain and enhance historical cost databases and estimating benchmarks

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Work closely with engineering, project management, supply chain, finance, and regulatory teams

  • Present estimates, assumptions, and key cost drivers to leadership and governance teams

  • Develop Independent Cost Estimates (ICEs) and support contractor bid evaluations and negotiations

  • Support review of contractor change notices and validation of change orders for approval

  • Interface with EPC contractors, vendors, and consulting partners

  • Support estimate refinement through project development, contract award, and execution by validating commercial changes, reconciling contractor pricing, and informing forecast updates

Continuous Improvement
  • Strengthen estimating tools, processes, and data governance

  • Promote consistency and best practices across the capital portfolio

  • Mentor and support development of junior estimators and staff as necessary

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)

  • 10+ years of experience in cost estimating

  • Minimum 5+ years supporting power generation, transmission, or energy infrastructure projects

  • Proven ability to develop estimates for large-scale capital projects ($100M+)

  • Strong understanding of:

  • Engineering design development

  • Construction practices and execution strategies

  • Procurement and contracting approaches

  • Proficiency with estimating tools such as:

  • Aspen Capital Cost Estimator

  • InEight Estimate

  • Cleopatra, Sage, or similar

  • Advanced Excel modeling

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience within a regulated utility environment

  • Experience estimating:

  • CCGT or simple cycle generation

  • Battery energy storage systems (BESS)

  • Renewable energy and grid infrastructure

  • Professional certifications such as AACE CCP, PMP, or equivalent

  • Experience supporting IRP, rate cases, or regulatory filings

  • Experience in EPC, EPCM, or owner's project delivery models

Key Competencies
  • Commitment to safety and operational excellence

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

  • Clear and effective communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders

  • Ability to balance detail-oriented analysis with strategic decision-making

  • Collaboration and stakeholder alignment

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment

Why Join NiSource
  • Contribute to critical infrastructure investments that power and connect communities

  • Support the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future

  • Work on large, impactful capital projects across a diverse portfolio

  • Collaborate with experienced professionals in a safety-first, values-driven organization

Success in This Role
In the first 12 months, you will:
  • Establish consistent estimating practices across assigned projects

  • Improve estimate accuracy, transparency, and confidence levels

  • Support successful regulatory and investment approvals

  • Build and enhance cost benchmarking tools and data

  • Strengthen collaboration across development, engineering, and construction teams

As a public utility, NiSource is required to provide continuous service to customers at all times. To ensure we fulfill that obligation, employees may be required to work outside their normal work hours and perform tasks outside of their normal responsibilities in support of emergency operations.
Work Authorization
Authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.
Workplace Connection
Value inclusion within your day to day responsibilities by respecting others perspectives/convictions, engaging others opinions, creating a safe environment where people, ideas, and opinions are valued within your Team/Customers and external partners.
Respect the unique lived experiences within your Team/Customers and external work partners by valuing different world views, challenges, and cultures that represents all walks of life and all backgrounds.
Treat others with respect and consideration. Actively participate in creating and contributing to a positive work environment.
Equal Employment Opportunity
NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.
By applying, you may be considered for other job opportunities.
ADA Accommodations
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at OneHR@nisource.com or 1-888-640-3320
Safety Statement
Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program. Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries. Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers. Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits.
E-Verify
NiSource participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program. As part of this process, we provide the following notices to all job applicants: These documents inform you of your rights and responsibilities under U.S. law. You can view or download them using the links below:
  • E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish
  • Right to Work Poster (English and Spanish) If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away

Salary Range*:
$113,500.00 - $170,300.00
*The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills, job-related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity.
Posting Start Date:
2026-07-08
Posting End Date (if applicable):
2026-07-22Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

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