Principal/Sr. Engineer - Heat Mass Balance

Role: Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer (Power) - Heat & Mass Balance Lead (Combined‑Cycle / CCGT)
Type: Contract-to-Hire|Initial term:12 months
Location: Charlotte, NC (Hybrid/Remote) with minimal site travel (commissioning/PG tests)

Be the engineer who defines the plant's performance. You'll own the Heat & Mass Balance (HMB) for high‑efficiency combined‑cycle programs-shaping scope from day one, steering technical procurement, and mentoring the next generation, all within a top North American EPC known for complex industrial delivery and a safety‑first culture.

Why this opportunity stands out

• Build for impact with a construction‑driven EPC that executes major power and industrial projects end‑to‑end (FEL/FEED → EPC), with early alignment, rigorous safety, and quality at scale.
• Solve real‑world performance challenges: translate models into scope, vendor packages, guarantees, and acceptance testing-so plants deliver what they promise.

What you'll do

• Own the cycle: Build and refine the HMB in THERMOFLEX (mandatory); experience with GT PRO/PEACE/STEAM PRO a plus. Deliver base and off‑design cases with clear operating envelopes.
• Translate to scope: Convert model outputs into CT/ST/HRSG datasheets, BOP requirements, and RFQ packages.
• Compare vendors fairly: Lead technical bid evaluations; normalize site conditions, part‑load, and auxiliary power to deliver apples‑to‑apples recommendations.
• Underwrite performance: Define net MW, heat rate, and emissions guarantees; draft ASME/PTC test & correction methodology; support commissioning and PG tests.
• Set key parameters: Establish HRSG pressure levels, pinch/approach, duct‑firing ranges, catalyst windows, condenser/ACC backpressure strategy, and auxiliary power allowances.
• Lead & interface: Present trade‑offs to owners/OEMs; review vendor submittals for spec and constructability; mentor 1-4 engineers; PE sealing where applicable.
• Guide delivery: Issue job notes & technical scopes; develop man‑hour estimates for proposals and resource planning; collaborate across disciplines through execution.

What you bring

• 10+ years in power generation with proven combined‑cycle experience and HMB ownership (not just review).
• Thermoflex proficiency (mandatory); familiarity with GT PRO/PEACE/STEAM PRO preferred.
• Solid HRSG fundamentals (pinch/approach, ΔP, catalyst/stack impacts) and condenser/ACC backpressure effects on ST power/heat rate.
• Hands‑on ASME/PTC testing and ISO/ambient/fuel corrections; acceptance testing experience preferred.
• RFQ/spec authorship and technical bid evaluation leadership for CT/ST/HRSG packages.
• BSME (or related); PE‑Mechanical preferred (or in progress). Crisp vendor/client communication.

Nice to have

EPC power environment experience; commissioning/PG testing leadership; TIC estimating; digital project delivery (e.g., AWP) exposure.

Ready to lead the model that leads the plant?
👉 Apply here
📩 Questions first? Send me a message.

Nice to have
OEM or Owner/Operator exposure (applications/performance), fuel LHV variability, part‑load/fast‑start strategies, emissions coupling (DLN/SCR/CO cat), and commissioning troubleshooting.

How to apply

Send a resume plus 3-5 bullets on a recent Thermoflow project you owned (config, your role, tools used, outcomes).