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Power Generation Engineering Jobs in Portland, OR

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Power Generation Engineering information

See Portland, OR salary details

$23.9K

$103.2K

$181.3K

How much do power generation engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for power generation engineering in Portland, OR is $103,192.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $141,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Portland, OR? For Power Generation Engineering jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Power Generation Engineering jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Power Generation Engineering jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Power Generation Engineering job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,192 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Associate Project Manager - Power Generation

Aligneddc

Portland, OR

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!
We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.

Associate Project Manager - Power Generation

Does the thought of joining one of the fastest-growing, privately held data center companies sound exciting to you? Do you enjoy collaborating with team members to drive and operate some of the industry's leading and most innovative infrastructure solutions?

At Aligned Data Centers, not only do we celebrate success across our platform, we celebrate the very teams that drive and support that success! Our culture is founded in passion, engineered from innovation, and driven by the pursuit of operational excellence. We are a company dedicated to driving positive change in the industry through continuous data center innovation, diversity and inclusion, and corporate sustainability.

We realize not only is providing a comprehensive benefits package important, but we also provide a generous 401k match with immediate vesting, free membership to Gympass which provides our employees a rich health and wellness benefit and competitive time off plan.Giving back and having fun is important to our team whether it be serving our communities or employee and customer events.Our Aligned DNA is what makes us unique and successful!

As part of our exciting growth, we are currently searching for an Associate Project Manager - Power Generation.

The Associate Project Manager - Power Generation supports the planning, execution, and delivery of power infrastructure projects across our data center portfolio. Working within a high-stakes, dynamic high-pace environment, this role assists in coordinating behind-the-meter power systems, switchgear installation, utility tie-ins, and other critical power initiatives from inception through commissioning. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated early-career professional to grow within the data center industry under the guidance of experienced project leaders.

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist in managing the full project lifecycle for power generation initiatives, including scope development, scheduling, budgeting, and closeout documentation.
  • Coordinate with internal teams - including facilities, electrical engineering, construction, and operations - as well as external contractors, equipment vendors, and utility providers.
  • Track project milestones, deliverables, and action items; maintain accurate project schedules and status reports using PM tools such as MS Project, Smartsheet, or similar platforms.
  • Support procurement activities including RFP preparation, vendor quote reviews, and purchase order tracking.
  • Monitor project budgets, flag variances, and assist in forecasting spending for power generation capital projects.
  • Attend and document site walks, construction meetings, and commissioning activities; maintain detailed meeting minutes and follow up on open items.
  • Help ensure all work is performed in compliance with applicable electrical codes, NFPA standards, OSHA regulations, and company safety policies.
  • Assist in coordinating outage windows, power maintenance events, and generator load bank testing with operations teams to minimize impact to live data center environments.
  • Maintain project files, as-built drawings, equipment submittals, and commissioning records in accordance with document control standards.
  • Provide regular project status updates to senior PMs and stakeholders.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
  • 1-3 years of project coordination or project management experience, preferably in fossil power construction, Data Center Facilities, critical facilities, utilities, or heavy construction.
  • Basic familiarity with power generation systems such as Turbine generators, Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engines, Fuel Cells, Transformers, UPS systems, PDUs, automatic transfer switches (ATS), and switchgear is a plus.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with project management software (Smartsheet, Procore, MS Project) preferred.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills; comfortable interfacing with contractors, engineers, and leadership.
  • PMP, PMI-CP or CAPM certification, or active pursuit of certification, is a plus.
  • Ability to work on-site at data center facilities.
  • Travel is between 25% and 50% monthly.

Work Environment

This role operates primarily on-site at data center facilities and active construction environments. Candidates must be comfortable working around energized electrical equipment and adhering to strict safety protocols. Some after-hours or weekend availability may be required to support outage coordination or critical project milestones.

BENEFITS & PERKS:

Aligned Data Centers is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to support the health, well-being, and financial security of our team members. Eligible employees have access to:

  • Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts: HSA with employer contribution for eligible participants. FSA's offered for health and dependent care to increase tax savings.

  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company match

  • Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay

  • Company-Sponsored Insurance: Short-Term Disability, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability (with medical election)

  • Optional Benefits: Voluntary life, critical illness, legal, and additional disability coverage

  • Wellness Programs: Employee assistance program (EAP), Wellhub gym membership, and other wellness initiatives

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements.Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

At Aligned, we are committed to transparency and fostering a positive employee experience from your very first interaction with us. In compliance with Illinois pay disclosure requirements, when you join Aligned, you'll have access to the following benefits: medical, dental, vision, short and long disability, life insurance and other voluntary benefits, 401k with employer match, bonus opportunities, paid time off, wellness benefits and professional development opportunities, all designed to support your well-being and career growth. We want you to have a clear understanding of what we offer, so you can make informed decisions about your future with us.

Aligned is equally committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and providing equal employment opportunities for all employees. We ensure that all applicants and team members are considered for employment, advancement, and all other employment-related matters without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential functions of your job due to a disability or medical condition, please contact our People & Culture team. Accommodation requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis in accordance with applicable laws. Aligned will make reasonable accommodations where necessary to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their role.