Power Plant Cycle Performance Engineer

CAM Integrated Solutions; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

CAM Integrated Solutions is seeking a Power Plant Cycle Performance Engineer to maximize efficiency and economic value of simple and combined cycle plants. You will apply advanced thermodynamics, modeling, and data-driven optimization to improve heat rate, reliability, emissions, and performance.

The role involves leading cycle performance analyses, building detailed models with GT PRO/Thermoflow/Aspen, performing sensitivity studies, and guiding retrofit and testing efforts across engineering

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Energy Engineering.
• 7+ years in power plant engineering or cycle modeling.
• Strong thermodynamics, heat transfer, and turbine knowledge.
• Experience with integrated cycle optimization is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead thermodynamic cycle optimization for combined and simple cycle plants.
• Improve heat rate, efficiency, output, and cycling flexibility.
• Build and maintain detailed models with GT PRO/Thermoflow/Aspen.
• Provide design guidance on retrofits and hybrid systems.
• Lead performance testing and validate models against field results.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and operations teams.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Heat transfer

Gas turbine operation

Combined cycle integration

Power plant engineering

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, or related field

Tools

GT PRO

Thermoflow

EBSILON

Aspen

Job description

The Power Plant Cycle Performance Engineer is responsible for maximizing the performance, efficiency, and operational flexibility of simple cycle and combined cycle power plants. This role applies advanced thermodynamic analysis, modeling, and data-driven optimization techniques to improve plant heat rate, reliability, emissions performance, and overall economic value.

Key Responsibilities

Cycle Performance Optimization

• Lead the analysis and optimization of thermodynamic cycles for:
  • Combined cycle power plants
  • Simple cycle gas turbine plants
• Identify opportunities to improve:
  • Heat rate and efficiency
  • Output (MW capacity)
  • Start-up times and cycling flexibility
  • Fuel utilization and operating costs
• Develop and implement performance improvement strategies.

Advanced Modeling & Simulation

• Build and maintain detailed thermodynamic models using tools such as:
  • GT PRO, Thermoflow, EBSILON, Aspen, or equivalent
• Conduct sensitivity analyses and optimization studies.

Operational & Data Analytics

• SCADA/DCS data
• Identify performance gaps and degradation trends.
• Develop predictive models and digital optimization tools where applicable.

Design & Retrofit Support

• Provide technical guidance on design improvements and retrofit projects such as:
  • Turbine upgrades and modifications
  • HRSG enhancements
  • Cooling system optimization
  • Integration of energy storage or hybrid systems
• Support feasibility studies, FEED, and detailed engineering phases.

Performance Testing & Validation

• Lead and support performance testing activities in accordance with ASME PTC standards.
• Validate model predictions against field test results.
• Recommend corrective actions to address deviations.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with:
  • Mechanical, Electrical, and I&C engineering teams
  • Plant operations and maintenance personnel
  • OEMs, key suppliers, and project execution partners
• Provide technical support during commissioning, outages, and troubleshooting.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, or related field
• 7+ years of experience in power plant engineering, performance analysis, or cycle modeling.
• Strong expertise in:
  • Thermodynamics and heat transfer
  • Gas turbine and steam cycle operation
  • Combined cycle integration

Preferred Qualifications

• Deep experience with industry modeling tools (e.g., GT PRO, Thermoflow suite).
• Knowledge of advanced optimization techniques (e.g., AI/ML-based optimization, digital twins).
• Experience with flexible operation and grid-supportive technologies.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent.
• Advanced analytical and modeling skills
• Strong problem-solving and optimization mindset
• Technical leadership
• Effective communication with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Primarily office-based with occasional travel for collaboration with OEMs, site support, and field-testing activities.

Reporting Structure

Reports to: Lead Mechanical Engineer or Project Engineering Manager

This position offers a unique opportunity to help shape a newly established power generation business within a well-established engineering firm. This role will provide meaningful influence over business direction, support the establishment of growth strategies, and serve as a leadership position within the developing team. It will also create the opportunity to define workflows, procedures, and engineering guidelines for the new power generation engineering group while providing a strong platform for rapid career growth into broader leadership positions.