Thermal Performance Engineer

As a Senior Thermal Performance Engineer, you will monitor and improve plant heat rate, reliability, and availability across our power generation fleet. You will use thermodynamics, data analysis, and project management expertise to optimize thermal efficiency and support economic dispatch in a wholesale utility environment. This role blends hands-on performance testing, engineering analysis, and cross-functional collaboration to drive measurable improvements in plant operations.

What You’ll Do

• Lead fleet-wide unit performance testing initiatives, including heat rate, capacity, and system optimization studies.
• Provide advanced analysis of thermal performance KPIs and present actionable insights to senior leadership.
• Identify, scope, and manage complex heat rate improvement projects from feasibility analysis through execution and post-implementation validation.
• Serve as a technical advisor to operations, maintenance, and instrumentation teams to resolve complex performance challenges.
• Develop long-range performance improvement strategies aligned with asset management and capital planning objectives.
• Oversee engineering scopes, budgets, schedules, and third-party engineering resources to ensure successful project delivery.

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering or physical science, or comparable experience.
• Ideal candidate will have five years of related experience in power generation or industrial systems; of minimum two years required.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics and plant operations.
• Experience with data analysis, technical reporting, and performance testing.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work across teams.

Preferred

• Engineer in Training certification.
• Experience supporting coal or gas generation assets.
• Project management experience in an industrial or utility setting.
• Familiarity with regulatory performance reporting requirements.

• We are committed to rewarding talent with top pay. Your efforts will be recognized with a total compensation package that reflects your experience and contributions.
• Plan for your future with confidence! We offer a robust 401(k) program with a generous employer match to help you build the financial future you deserve.
• We know how important work-life integration is. Recharge with PTO and enjoy paid holidays, ensuring you have time to unwind and pursue your passions outside of work.
• Your health matters to us! Stay covered beginning on your first day of employment with our premier healthcare plan that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.

At Associated Electric Cooperative, we’re committed to providing reliable energy to the communities we serve with passion and precision. We’re a tight-knit team dedicated to keeping the lights on and the energy flowing smoothly across our expansive network!

From technical to operational to professional disciplines, our team brings a wide variety of skills, talents, and expertise to the table. We believe in both dedicating ourselves to excellence and investing in your growth., At Associated Electric Cooperative, all of our 700+ employees across MO/AR/OK territory play a crucial role in powering our mission! Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, you’ll find endless opportunities for career development here. Join us in an environment where your contribution is valued, and your career can thrive as we work together to keep the lights on!