Senior Mechanical Engineer – Power Generation (Combined Cycle)
The Charlotte office of Zachry offers a unique opportunity to join a high-growth team at the center of critical infrastructure work across the region. Our team supports a large and expanding portfolio driven by strong, long-standing partnership with major utility providers. This gives our employees consistent exposure to high-impact, technically challenging projects with real visibility.
Because of the volume and continuity of work, team members in Charlotte benefit from both stability and variety—working on meaningful projects while continuing to develop new skills and advance their careers. The environment is fast-paced and collaborative, where individuals are empowered to take ownership, contribute ideas, and make a tangible difference from day one.
If you’re looking for a role where your work matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is visible, the Charlotte Zachry team is the place to be.
Zachry Group is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to support our Charlotte Design Center, focused on power generation projects, including combined-cycle and other thermal generation facilities. This role is ideal for a seasoned engineer who thrives in leading mechanical design efforts for complex, utility-scale projects.
You will play a key role in delivering high-quality engineering solutions across the full project lifecycle—from early design through construction support and commissioning—while mentoring teams and driving technical excellence.
ResponsibilitiesKey Responsibilities
- Lead and mentor a team of 3–5 mechanical engineers supporting power generation projects.
- Drive the mechanical design and technical execution for combined-cycle and thermal power facilities (gas turbines, HRSGs, steam systems, and balance of plant).
- Coordinate across disciplines (electrical, civil/structural, I&C) to ensure integrated and constructible design solutions.
- Manage project schedules, budgets, and deliverables, providing regular status updates and identifying risks or mitigation strategies.
- Develop and maintain resource plans aligned with project demands.
- Prepare RFQ packages and technical specifications for major equipment, including:
- Heat Recovery Steam Generators (HRSGs)
- Pumps, heat exchangers, and pressure vessels
- Balance of plant mechanical systems
- Perform technical bid evaluations and provide equipment recommendations.
- Review vendor documentation for compliance with project requirements, codes, and industry standards (ASME, API, etc.).
- Develop technical scopes of work, design criteria, and engineering deliverables.
- Support field activities, including walkdowns, construction support, and troubleshooting.
- Prepare man-hour estimates and support proposal development.
- Collaborate with clients, vendors, and internal teams to ensure successful project execution.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related discipline) from an accredited program.
- 15+ years of experience in power generation, with a strong focus on combined-cycle or thermal power plant design.
- Proven experience leading mechanical engineering teams on large-scale industrial or utility projects.
- Strong understanding of power plant systems, including gas turbines, steam turbines, HRSGs, and balance of plant.
- Expertise in fixed and rotating equipment specification and selection.
- Working knowledge of ASME codes, piping systems, and material selection.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to coordinate across engineering, construction, vendors, and clients.
- Highly organized, self-directed, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Willingness to travel and support both office and field work.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with EPC or EPCm power generation projects.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- Familiarity with industry standards (ASME, API, NFPA/NEC as applicable to power generation).
- Experience supporting plant startup, commissioning, and performance testing.
- Background in construction-driven design, modularization, or Advanced Work Packaging (AWP).
Why Zachry
- Work on mission-critical power infrastructure projects across a growing portfolio.
- Join a collaborative, high-performance team with strong client relationships.
- Gain exposure to technically complex, large-scale energy projects with real impact.
Opportunity to lead, mentor, and shape engineering execution within a respected EPC organization.
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Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline from an accredited program
- 15+ years of experience in power generation, particularly combined-cycle or thermal power plant design
- Experience leading mechanical engineering teams on large-scale industrial or utility projects
- Strong understanding of gas turbines, steam turbines, HRSGs, and balance of plant systems
- Expertise in fixed and rotating equipment specification and selection
- Working knowledge of ASME codes, piping systems, and material selection
- Strong communication and cross-functional coordination skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Willingness to travel and support office and field work
- Experience with EPC or EPCm power generation projects
- Professional Engineer license
- Familiarity with ASME, API, NFPA, and NEC standards applicable to power generation
- Experience supporting plant startup, commissioning, and performance testing
- Experience with construction-driven design, modularization, or Advanced Work Packaging
What We Do
Zachry Nuclear Engineering, Inc. provides comprehensive engineering, design, and project management services for the nuclear industry. The company supports the modification of existing nuclear power plants and the development of new facilities, including small modular reactors. With over 50 years of experience, it offers expertise in electrical, mechanical, structural, and controls engineering, as well as turnkey construction and maintenance services.
