Mechanical Engineer

About the role

Alaska Power & Telephone (AP&T) is an employee-owned, vertically integrated utility that independently owns and operates ten isolated power systems across a large expanse of Alaska, incorporating hydro, solar, and diesel resources to provide economic power to the communities served. As a small utility, AP&T offers a diversity of experience: integrating innovative new generation resources and renewables, addressing day-to-day operational issues, installing and maintaining rotating equipment, and meeting regulatory requirements. The successful candidate will find their strengths within the engineering staff and ultimately take leadership on a variety of projects. This full-time Mechanical Engineer position is based out of an APT&T office or a home-based location in Alaska or the Pacific Northwest, with up to 25% field travel.

Responsibilities

• Develop engineering designs, conceptual through construction, for rotating equipment: generators, motors, auxiliary systems, and other plant equipment
• Support hydroelectric and diesel plant maintenance programs
• Provide operational support across diesel, hydro, and other plant facilities, including occasional after-hours emergency troubleshooting
• Investigate and resolve design problems; develop corrective-action plans; prepare reports, standards, specifications, RFPs, and material requisitions
• Perform equipment installation, testing, startup, upgrades, and repairs, working closely with mechanics, plant operators, and electricians
• Prepare SOPs and safety procedures, and review facilities for NESC compliance
• Work with technical staff on yearly budgeting, planning, and project tracking

Requirements

• 2- or 4-year engineering or technical degree in a relevant area of study
• Five or more years of field and design experience with plant typical of small utility or industrial installations (50 to 5000 kW range)
• Basic knowledge of diesel engine technologies and construction practices
• Ability to self-motivate, manage time, plan projects, and communicate with team members
• Ability to safely identify hazards and work around electrical and mechanical equipment
• Familiar with AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, and similar basic computer tools
• Current passport and ability to travel to other locations (up to 25% of workload; reduced if in or near AP&T served communities)
• Mental flexibility, willingness to learn unfamiliar parts of the job, and a positive attitude
• Must pass a pre-employment drug test and background check; may be subject to random screening
• Background in power generation and distribution systems, equipment, and design practices

Qualifications

• Professional Engineer registered in Alaska
• Seven or more years of utility or industrial experience
• Familiar with isolated Alaskan communities and challenges of travel and project planning in the region
• Hands-on experience specifying, supervising installation, and maintenance of hydro and diesel electric generation systems
• High level of skill in Pelton and Turgo hydroelectric turbine design and systems
• Knowledge of engineering design principles and engineering standards and codes applicable to electric utility
• Experience with the use of hand and power tools

Physical requirements

• Work at times in loud environments requiring hearing protection
• Work at times in non-temperature-controlled environments
• Work at times around rotating equipment
• Work at times while sitting, standing, crouching, squatting, and reaching at heights
• Work at times in a standard office environment with regularly scheduled working hours
• Capable of safely lifting up to 60 pounds on occasion, maintaining good balance
• Safety and PPE must be worn at all times when performing work in the field
• Occasional travel may be required by small planes, ferry, helicopter, boats, and/or ATV

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan
• $5,000 annual medical travel reimbursement
• Up to $125 annual medevac insurance reimbursement
• Employee stock ownership options
• $200 annual company logowear allowance
• Ongoing employee appreciation and recognition

Pay

$100,000 – $140,000 annually (DOE)

Schedule

Full-time; up to 25% travel. Work from an APT&T office or home-based in Alaska or the Pacific Northwest.