Principal Mechanical Engineer – Power Plant Systems

American Electric Power Co.; Columbus, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 116,000 - 151,000; Full time

Job summary

AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER is seeking a Mechanical Engineer Principal to support gas, coal, and renewable plant retrofits and new-generation projects. You will define mechanical design-basis expectations, procure rotating and static equipment, and coordinate with AE and EPC teams for reliable, safe, and compliant designs.

Role emphasizes advanced knowledge of natural gas simple cycle and combined cycle plants, with responsibilities spanning design review, RFx, vendor submittals, and lifecycle

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or equivalent.
• Master's degree or PhD in engineering preferred.
• Professional licensure (PE) preferred but not mandatory for all locations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and document mechanical design basis for plant equipment such as turbines, generators, HRSGs, boilers, heat exchangers and piping.
• Review and approve mechanical designs, drawings, and calculations with AE and EPC teams.
• Prepare procurement specifications and RFx deliverables; participate in vendor evaluations and bid reviews.
• Provide construction, commissioning, and startup support including site inspections and punch-list resolution.
• Ensure compliance with codes and standards (ASME, API, ANSI, NFPA, IEEE).

Skills

Gas turbine knowledge

Rotating equipment

Piping & mechanical design

CAD & calculation tools

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Master's degree in engineering (preferred)

Tools

AutoCAD

MicroStation

MathCAD

MATLAB

PDMS/AVEVA

Job description

AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER is seeking a Mechanical Engineer Principal to support gas, coal, and renewable plant retrofits and new-generation projects. You will define mechanical design-basis expectations, procure rotating and static equipment, and coordinate with AE and EPC teams for reliable, safe, and compliant designs.

Role emphasizes advanced knowledge of natural gas simple cycle and combined cycle plants, with responsibilities spanning design review, RFx, vendor submittals, and lifecycle