Associate Mechanical Engineer - Hydropower

Together, we own our company, our future, and our shared success. As an employee-owned company, our people are Black & Veatch. We put them at the center of everything we do and empower them to grow, explore new possibilities, and use their diverse talents and perspectives to solve humanity's biggest challenges in an ever-evolving world.

About the role

In this role, you will design and manage new and upgraded projects on hydropower systems, including:

• Hydro turbines (condition assessments, hydraulic evaluations, and calculations)
• Dam and water conveyance (radial gates and large valves)
• Generator cooling systems
• Raw water and oil systems
• Fire protection and HVAC systems
• Turbine and generator bearings
• Compressed air systems
• Instrumentation support
• Crane/hoist systems

You may also perform limited commissioning support, on-site data collection, and inspections of powerhouse and dam-related assets. Projects will span concept to completion, offering insight into the influence of initial decisions and the satisfaction of commissioning.

The Team

Black & Veatch has delivered hydropower solutions worldwide for more than 40 years, producing results on nearly 500 projects and over 50,000 megawatts in hydropower design. Our expertise ranges from studies and valuations to optimizing existing operations, handling full services for facilities of all sizes. Clients rely on us for thorough studies, project management, design services, construction support, and ensuring operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Continue learning and remain current on departmental design guides, standards, systems, applicable engineering codes, and B&V policies and procedures.
• Apply and independently develop engineering knowledge to assigned tasks.
• Comply with B&V’s quality program and support continuous improvement and change management efforts.
• Prepare increasingly complex engineering deliverables, perform research, and develop recommendations for equipment/materials selection.
• Collect, assimilate, and manage data for engineering work; prepare complex engineering calculations following standard methods and principles.
• Understand and adhere to budget, schedule, and quality requirements; recognize, define, and resolve problems within assigned area.
• Provide direction and guidance to entry-level professionals and interns; coordinate with project leadership and internal/external team members on less complex projects.
• Interact with other disciplines on design details; understand external and internal clients' interests and drivers through regular communication.
• Support business development or pursuit activities; share knowledge of latest technology and processes.
• Assist with performance management, recognition, and corrective actions; actively mentor entry-level professionals and interns.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering from a recognized accredited program.
• Minimum of 1 year of related work experience.
• Ability to complete pre-employment onboarding requirements, including background checks, drug screens, and motor vehicle records searches.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of mechanical engineering experience in hydropower or a related field.
• Previous experience with engineering projects in a utility setting.
• Interest in design and operation support of mechanical systems related to dams and water storage facilities.
• Previous experience in a client-facing role.

Work Environment

This position primarily operates in a typical office environment, with prolonged periods of sitting and computer use. It may also require physical tasks during site visits, including crouching, grasping, and standing/walking for extended periods. Occasional travel (up to 15% of the time) is required. Hybrid or flexible work options may be offered after the first 90 days of employment.

Pay

Annual compensation range for this role in California: $91,047 – $152,053. Final compensation is determined based on skills, experience, qualifications, internal alignment, geographic location, and other factors permitted by law.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care benefits (medical, dental, vision, disability, and wellness programs).
• Flexible work schedules, paid vacation, holiday, sick time, and dependent sick time.
• Company-matched 401k plan, adoption reimbursement, tuition reimbursement, vendor discounts, and an employment referral program.
• AD&D insurance, pre-taxed accounts, voluntary legal plan, and B&V Credit Union access.
• Eligibility for a performance-based bonus program.
• 100% ESOP-owned company, empowering employees to share in long-term success through stock ownership.