Thermal & Wind Generation Plant Engineer

NorthWestern Energy; Billings (MT); On-site; USD 66,600 - 143,300; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and retirement benefits

Competitive salary

Regular full-time employment

Job summary

NorthWestern Energy is looking for a Thermal & Wind Generation Plant Engineer in Billings, MT, responsible for overseeing engineering and technical support for our generation facilities. The Engineer will coordinate projects, manage compliance, and provide technical support to ensure safe and reliable plant operations.

This role requires a Bachelor's degree in engineering and experience in thermal power generation. The position offers a competitive salary range of $66,600 to $143,300 per year, along with health and retirement benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering required, Electrical, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering preferred.
• Experience in thermal power generation engineering preferred.
• Working knowledge of NERC/WECC regulatory requirements and compliance documentation strategies.

Responsibilities

• Oversee engineering support personnel for compliance and technical operation.
• Manage plant projects and coordinate resources effectively.
• Provide technical support and facilitate troubleshooting for plant operations.

Skills

Thermal power generation engineering

Project management

NERC/WECC compliance

Troubleshooting

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Engineer in Training (EIT) License

Professional Engineering (PE) License

Tools

Electrical plant drawings

Mechanical plant drawings

Job description

About This Position

The Thermal & Wind Generation Plant Engineer is responsible for oversight, coordination, and execution of engineering and technical support of the NorthWestern Energy Thermal and Wind Generation facilities. The Engineer will support development and execution of capital project plans for the Montana and South Dakota Generation facilities as well as coordinating the work of contract resources as applicable. The Engineer will work closely with the Thermal & Wind Power Generation Manager and the Thermal and Wind Senior Technical Advisor to set priorities, budgets, and develop long term strategies for maintaining and improving the Thermal and Wind Generation facilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the activities of contract engineering support personnel on all plant needs including NERC/WECC compliance
• Be a leader in safety performance
• Able to interact effectively with company employees, contractors, and other internal departments
• Facilitate, participate, and/or oversee Root Cause Analysis activities as required for plant related events
• Provide technical support to the plants as required to maintain safe, reliable, and compliant operation
• Monitor progress and performance of vendors providing products and services
• Serve as project manager for plant projects as applicable
• Occasional travel required, up to 30% including overnights
• Develop strategic budget recommendations for plant improvement, and work to accomplish those projects (as assigned) within approved budgets
• Coordinate and prioritize resources as necessary for plant support
• Stay current on emerging technologies and identify beneficial upgrades to the plants
• Be available by phone or in person for plant troubleshooting and real time response
• Assist with document management efforts to organize and maintain plant drawings and compliance records
• Perform individual lifts and carry supplies up to 35 pounds
• The ability to maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position, consistent with applicable laws and reasonable accommodation requirements
• All NorthWestern Energy employees are required to adhere to company safety standards and the Code of Business Conduct & Ethics
• Ensure all actions are consistent with NorthWestern Energy's values, mission, and strategic business objective

Qualifications

• Demonstrate and maintain a good personal safety record
• Bachelor's degree in engineering required, Electrical, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering preferred
• Engineer in Training (EIT) and/or Professional Engineering (PE) License preferred
• Experience, and expertise in thermal power generation engineering preferred
• Able to quickly learn new technologies
• Able to work in a dynamic environment with potentially rapidly changing issues and priorities
• Working knowledge of NERC/WECC regulatory requirements and compliance documentation strategies
• Demonstrated expertise in troubleshooting plant electrical, mechanical, and controls issues including application of corrective measures preferred
• Large project management experience preferred
• Perform individual lifts and manipulate items up to 25 pounds
• Ability to read and comprehend electrical, civil, and mechanical plant drawings
• Demonstrated practical knowledge of generation, plant operation, and maintenance
• Valid driver\'s license and satisfactory driving record
• Must pass physical test to access all areas of the Thermal and Wind Power Generation facilities, including climbing ladders, confined and cramped wet slippery quarters and traveling rough terrain
• Energy Industry Fundamentals 2.0 certification is a plus

Location and Travel

Work locations include Billings/Laurel, MT or Aberdeen, SD preferred. Other major generation locations in Montana may be considered.

Compensation and Benefits

Pay range: $66,600 to $143,300 per year. Regular full-time employment. Benefits described by the company include eligible health, retirement, and other programs as listed in the job posting.