Mechanical Engineer - Electric Generation

059 Northern IN Public Serv Co LLC; Valparaiso (IN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

NiSource in the United States seeks a Mechanical Engineer to support Electric Generation assets, emphasizing safety, reliability, and performance across generation groups. The role covers project management, budgeting, and equipment upgrades, with duties spanning planning, procurement, inspection, and documentation.

The position has five levels (Associate through Senior) with placement based on education and experience; strong problem-solving and collaboration across departments are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering or ABET-accredited program.
• 0–12 months relevant experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Drafts clear and accurate technical documentation and utilizes feedback to achieve business goals.

Responsibilities

• Maintain safety as the prime consideration in the planning and implementation of all projects and assigned work.
• Ensure that all OSHA, NFPA, AWS, ASME, federal, state, engineering standards, and other applicable codes and regulations are followed as applicable to assigned work.
• Perform the role of Project Manager or Project Engineer for equipment modifications, upgrades, new construction, major repairs, and unit outages.
• Develop and prioritize budget proposals for plant upgrades and maintenance projects.
• Conduct cost benefits and project risk analyses.
• Provide input to project timing considering outage schedules, engineering and procurement lead times.
• Duties include project development, proposal, and specification development, bid evaluation, contract administration/management, planning, scheduling, material procurement, budget review, inspection, commissioning, testing, and completion of all associated documentation.
• Respond, as needed, to investigate and provide solutions to field problems with station equipment.
• Provide technical assistance and engineering services to various departments within Electric Generation.
• Coordinate multi‑craft projects in a Union environment.
• Knowledge of predictive maintenance diagnostic testing activities of mechanical equipment and systems.
• Assist with analyzing and reporting results for impending problems and providing mitigation recommendations.
• Document all equipment repair data and maintain accuracy of equipment literature and station drawings.
• Develop programs and procedures to maintain and improve the performance of the generating units.
• Recommend solutions with comprehensive implementation plans, including budgets, if required.
• Monitor performance of plant systems/equipment.
• Evaluate trends of operating data to identify problem areas and initiate corrective actions and verify results.
• Pursue changes in practices and technology that can improve quality of repairs, refine accuracy of test data, and raise levels of proficiency.
• Travel to repair shops to witness equipment rebuilds and ensure specifications and quality standards are being met.
• Familiar with and support the repair and operation of rotational equipment such as turbines, pumps, fans, gear boxes, motors, etc.
• Provide support to the vibration analysis program by providing repair recommendations.
• Support Nipsco Welding program.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Engineering or ABET-accredited Engineering Technology

Job description

Mechanical Engineer– Electric Generation (Job Family) Job Summary

Mechanical Engineer to support Nipsco Electric Generation assets. The primary role is to provide technical input, support daily generating station operational efficiency, long term reliability, and overall performance by working with all other Electric Generation groups as required. The results rendered would be a high unit availability rate, low production costs, environmental compliance, and proper asset management. This posting is a five‑level Mechanical Engineer job family (Associate through Senior); level placement is based on education, experience, and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain safety as the prime consideration in the planning and implementation of all projects and assigned work.
• Ensure that all OSHA, NFPA, AWS, ASME, federal, state, engineering standards, and other applicable codes and regulations are followed as applicable to assigned work.
• Perform the role of Project Manager or Project Engineer for equipment modifications, upgrades, new construction, major repairs, and unit outages.
• Develop and prioritize budget proposals for plant upgrades and maintenance projects.
• Conduct cost benefits and project risk analyses.
• Provide input to project timing considering outage schedules, engineering and procurement lead times.
• Duties include project development, proposal, and specification development, bid evaluation, contract administration/management, planning, scheduling, material procurement, budget review, inspection, commissioning, testing, and completion of all associated documentation.
• Respond, as needed, to investigate and provide solutions to field problems with station equipment.
• Provide technical assistance and engineering services to various departments within Electric Generation.
• Coordinate multi‑craft projects in a Union environment.
• Knowledge of predictive maintenance diagnostic testing activities of mechanical equipment and systems.
• Assist with analyzing and reporting results for impending problems and providing mitigation recommendations.
• Document all equipment repair data and maintain accuracy of equipment literature and station drawings.
• Develop programs and procedures to maintain and improve the performance of the generating units.
• Recommend solutions with comprehensive implementation plans, including budgets, if required.
• Monitor performance of plant systems/equipment.
• Evaluate trends of operating data to identify problem areas and initiate corrective actions and verify results.
• Pursue changes in practices and technology that can improve quality of repairs, refine accuracy of test data, and raise levels of proficiency.
• Travel to repair shops to witness equipment rebuilds and ensure specifications and quality standards are being met.
• Familiar with and support the repair and operation of rotational equipment such as turbines, pumps, fans, gear boxes, motors, etc.
• Provide support to the vibration analysis program by providing repair recommendations.
• Support Nipsco Welding program

Associate Engineer Requirements

Bachelor of Sciencein Engineering or Engineering Technology (ABET‑accredited)collegeor university programor degree earned by May 2026- Mechanical Engineering/Engineering Technology preferred. 0–12 months relevant experience Valid driver’s license With close Supervision: Applies foundational technical knowledge to help identify, analyze, and resolve routine issues with support from the engineering ring team. Supports station safety, environmental and reliability by assisting with planning, estimating, scheduling, and tracking assigned work activities. Drafts clear and accurate technical documentation and utilizes feedback to achieve business goals. Use engineering principles and problem‑solving techniques to troubleshoot and support business goals. Continuously learns and builds job‑related technical and professional skills through training, mentorship, office and field work. Collaborates effectively with peers and cross‑functional partners; communicates clearly in writing and verbally; maintains organized and accurate records. Demonstrates professionalism, strong work ethics, and a positive attitude while supporting team and company objectives. Follows applicable company procedures and industry standards/codes, asks questions, and values feedback & mentoring.

Engineer 1 Requirements

Everything in Associate Engineer level plus, with close supervision: Provides technical expertise and guidance in the identification, analysis and resolution of problems in area of expertise. Ensure accomplishment of business goals and objectives through effective planning, organizing, estimating, scheduling, and monitoring of work activities. Prepares thorough and accurate technical reports, correspondence, documentation, calculations, and sketches. Provides critical thinking and problem‑solving skills Strives to continually improve job‑related, engineering, technical and professional knowledge, skills and performance. Develops positive working relationships to effectively coordinate work activities. Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills. Maintains accurate records and files. Supports the company's goals and represents the company positively and professionally. Working knowledge of company and industry codes, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures Understanding basic engineering/technical theories and principles. Understanding of basic practices of researching technical design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations and preparing and presenting recommendations Good written and oral communication skills. Preferred: Understanding of basic principles of project management PMP Certification Experience in the electric utility industry.

Engineer 2 Requirements

4+ years of equivalent experience Everything in Engineer 1 level plus, with some supervision: Increased working knowledge of company and industry codes, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures Increased understanding of basic engineering/technical theories and principles. Increased understanding of basic practices of researching technical design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations and preparing and presenting recommendations Preferred: Understanding of basic principles of project management PMP Certification Experience in the electric utility industry.

Engineer 3 Requirements

9+ years of equivalent experience Everything in the Engineer 2 level plus, with minimal supervision: Ability to manage complex projects and mentor junior engineers Proficient in critical thinking and problem‑solving skills Proficient in developing positive working relationships to effectively coordinate work activities. Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills. Maintains accurate records and files.Proficient with company and industry codes, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures Proficient in engineering/technical theories and principles. Proficient in basic practices of researching technical design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations and preparing and presenting recommendations Proficiency in written and oral communication skills. Preferred: Proficient in principles of project management PMP Certification Experience in the electric utility industry.

Senior Engineer Requirements

12+ years of equivalent experience Everything in the Engineer 3 level plus, with minimal supervision and increased latitude for unreviewed work: Skilled in critical thinking and problem‑solving skills Skilled in developing positive working relationships to effectively coordinate work activities. Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills. Maintains accurate records and files. Skilled with company and industry codes, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures Skilled in engineering/technical theories and principles. Skilled in basic practices of researching technical design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations and preparing and presenting recommendations Skilled in written and oral communication skills. Preferred: Advanced degree in Business or Engineering Skilled in principles of project management PMP Certification Experience in the electric utility industry.

Salary Range

Associate Engineer: $69,900 – $105,000 Engineer 1: $69,900 – $105,000 Engineer 2: $82,200 - $123,200 Engineer 3: $96,600 – $144,900 Senior Engineer: $113,500 – $170,300

Disclaimer

This description outlines primary duties and qualifications but is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities. As a public utility, NiSource provides essential services to customers 24/7. Emergency needs can arise at various times throughout the year, including during storm season. Employees may be required to support emergency response efforts, which could include working outside normal hours or assisting with tasks outside of typical responsibilities.

Work Authorization

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Workplace Connection

We value a workplace where everyone feels respected, included, and able to do their best work. We encourage open dialogue, value different perspectives, and work collaboratively with employees, customers, and partners. We recognize and respect the unique experiences people bring, including different backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints. We treat others with professionalism and care, and we each play a part in creating a positive work environment.

Veteran Hiring & Inclusion

NiSource is proud to support veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses. We value the leadership, teamwork, and mission‑focused experience the military community brings, and we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth and development.

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 also be considered for other roles that match your skills and experience.

ADA Accommodations

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at [e-mail] or 1-888-640-3320

Safety Statement

Safety is a core value at NiSource. Employees are expected to follow safety requirements, report hazards, and help maintain a safe environment for themselves and their coworkers.

E-Verify

NiSourceparticipates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program. Please review the following notices regarding your rights and responsibilities under U.S. law. E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) Right to Work Poster (English and Spanish) Salary Range*: $69,900.00 - $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: 2026-09-11 Posting End Date (if applicable): Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

At NiSource, you'll be part of the team serving nearly four million customers throughout the Midwest and Mid‑Atlantic, who count on us to energize their homes and businesses. Whether speaking with customers by phone, analyzing financial data or installing new gas lines in a neighborhood, you’ll meet exciting challenges each day and make the most of your skills and talents. And you’ll be part of a company that was named by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Large Employers. We're looking for talent from all backgrounds. We invite candidates of all abilities to come as they are and do what they love. Through our years of successful growth, we’ve stayed true to our roots by making a difference in the lives of millions of our customers. If you’re interested in joining an inclusive, innovative company that fosters opportunity for growth, NiSource might be the place for you.