Mechanical Engineering Manager (Gas Turbine- Power Generation)

Pacifico Energy; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Pacifico Energy is currently looking for a Mechanical Engineering Manager specializing in gas turbines for power generation. You will lead projects that involve cutting-edge energy technologies, ensuring the optimal performance of gas turbines and integrating them with PV solar and energy storage solutions.

Ideal candidates have over 5 years of direct experience in mechanical engineering roles, specifically in gas turbine design and optimization, and must be proficient in related project management skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience with gas turbines for power generation.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics and mechanical design principles.
• Proficiency in engineering performance analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop gas turbine systems for power generation.
• Analyze gas turbine performance and identify improvement opportunities.
• Oversee installation and commissioning of gas turbines.

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Gas turbine performance analysis

Thermodynamics and fluid mechanics

Project management

Collaboration and teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree or relevant certifications (Gas Turbine Certification, ASME)

Tools

AutoCAD

MATLAB

Thermoflow

GT Pro

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Mechanical Engineering Manager with a focus on gas turbines for power generation projects that integrate gas turbines, PV solar, BESS, and other technologies to meet the unique energy demands of large industrial facilities and data centers. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in mechanical engineering, with a specialization in the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of gas turbines in power plants. This role will involve working on cutting‑edge energy projects, optimizing turbine performance, ensuring reliable operation, and addressing technical challenges in the energy production process.

Key Responsibilities

• Gas Turbine System Design & Development
  • Design and develop gas turbine systems and subsystems for power generation applications, ensuring they meet project specifications, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
  • Conduct thermodynamic and mechanical performance analysis to optimize gas turbine efficiency and associated systems.
  • Collaborate with electrical and civil engineers to integrate gas turbine systems within the overall power plant design.
• Performance Monitoring & Optimization
  • Analyze the performance of gas turbines and related systems, using both real‑time data and simulations.
  • Identify opportunities for performance improvements, cost reductions, and efficiency gains through modifications, upgrades, and preventive maintenance.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical issues, diagnosing root causes of performance deviations or failures and developing solutions to mitigate risks.
• Installation & Commissioning
  • Oversee the mechanical installation and commissioning of gas turbines and associated equipment, ensuring that they meet design specifications and industry standards.
  • Provide technical support during the start‑up phase and troubleshooting to ensure smooth system integration.
  • Ensure that all installation work complies with safety protocols, environmental standards, and operational requirements.
• Maintenance & Reliability Engineering
  • Develop and implement maintenance strategies to ensure the long‑term reliability and efficiency of gas turbines.
  • Create and maintain detailed records of turbine performance, maintenance activities, and inspections.
  • Recommend improvements to enhance turbine longevity, reduce downtime, and optimize operation cycles.
• Project Management & Coordination
  • Work closely with gas turbine OEMs and lead technology screening and gas turbine selection for projects portfolio.
  • Prepare scope of work for gas turbine RFPs and evaluate proposals, leading technical clarifications and negotiations.
  • Manage the execution of gas turbine‑related projects, ensuring that schedules, budgets, and resources are effectively coordinated.
  • Work closely with project managers, contractors, and suppliers to ensure the timely and cost‑effective delivery of power generation systems.
  • Review and approve technical specifications, contracts, and documentation related to turbine procurement and installations.
• Technical Support & Troubleshooting
  • Provide expert technical support during plant operation, including troubleshooting turbine performance issues and offering on‑site solutions.
  • Work with plant operators and maintenance teams to identify and resolve operational or mechanical issues quickly and efficiently.
  • Stay up‑to‑date with the latest advancements in gas turbine technologies, energy generation systems, and industry best practices.
  • Assess the impact of new technologies or materials on turbine performance and make recommendations for their integration.
• Compliance & Safety
  • Ensure that all work is performed in accordance with safety guidelines, environmental regulations, and industry standards (e.g., ASME, API, ISO).
  • Conduct risk assessments and safety audits related to gas turbine operations and maintenance.
  • Implement safety measures to prevent accidents, mechanical failures, and environmental hazards.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Power Engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Gas Turbine Certification, ASME) would be a plus.
• Experience
  • Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in mechanical engineering, specifically working with gas turbines for power generation.
  • Proven experience in the design, operation, maintenance, and optimization of gas turbine systems in power plants.
  • Familiarity with different types of gas turbines (heavy‑duty, aero‑derivative, industrial) and associated auxiliary systems (compressors, combustion chambers, etc.).
  • Experience with microgrid design and implementation, particularly in industrial and data center environments.
  • Expertise in the operation, integration, and optimization of gas turbines, PV solar systems, and energy storage solutions in hybrid configurations.
• Technical Skills
  • Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mechanical design principles.
  • Proficiency in engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, MATLAB, Thermoflow, GT Pro).
  • Experience with gas turbine performance analysis tools and troubleshooting techniques.
• Project Management Skills
  • Ability to manage projects from conception through execution, including timeline management, budgeting, and coordination with cross‑functional teams.
• Communication & Teamwork
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills to coordinate effectively with engineers, management, and other stakeholders.
  • Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.

Desirable Skills & Attributes

• Familiarity with advanced gas turbine technologies, including combined‑cycle and cogeneration systems.
• Knowledge of gas turbines and associated systems: Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG), etc.
• Knowledge of control systems and instrumentation related to gas turbines.
• Experience with energy efficiency programs, emissions reduction, and sustainability initiatives.
• Strong problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet project deadlines.