Principal Engineer Mechanical (Lead)

Position Description

The Lead Mechanical Engineer is a senior-level role responsible for overseeing the mechanical engineering function on EPC power generation projects for Zachry Group. This position leads the design, specification, and integration of key mechanical systems and equipment while ensuring alignment with project objectives, technical standards, and regulatory requirements.

The role requires full accountability for mechanical engineering deliverables across all project phases—from proposal development and detailed design through construction support and commissioning. The Lead Mechanical Engineer serves as the primary point of contact for mechanical scope, providing direction to internal teams, coordinating with clients and vendors, and ensuring that engineering solutions are practical, cost-effective, and constructible.

This position demands strong leadership, deep technical expertise in power plant systems, and the ability to manage resources, schedules, and quality in a fast-paced EPC environment. The individual will mentor engineering staff, drive continuous improvement, and uphold Zachry Group’s commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as Mechanical Lead on EPC power projects, accountable for technical execution and deliverable quality
• Lead mechanical design efforts and coordinate across disciplines, clients, and vendors
• Manage project schedules, budgets, and resource plans; provide regular status updates and reports
• Develop RFQ packages and lead technical bid evaluations with recommendation summaries
• Review and approve vendor submittals for compliance with project specifications and industry codes
• Develop technical scopes of work, job notes, and engineering deliverables
• Conduct field walkdowns to gather data and support design validation
• Prepare man-hour estimates for proposals and project planning
• Participate in and lead client, vendor, and internal project meetings
• Present technical information and resolve engineering issues or system challenges
• Apply sound engineering judgment to evaluate, select, and adapt standard techniques and procedures
• Provide mentorship, technical guidance, and training to engineers and project personnel
• Supervise and review work of engineers and designers, as required
• Ensure engineering documentation meets applicable standards; sign and seal work if licensed

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
• 15+ years of experience in power generation or relevant industrial sectors (e.g., oil & gas, chemical, or heavy industrial EPC)
• Strong expertise in rotating and static equipment, including pumps, heat exchangers, and ASME pressure vessels
• Working knowledge of ASME codes and standards for pressure vessels and piping systems
• Experience specifying major power plant equipment (e.g., CTGs, STGs, HRSGs)
• Proven experience working within an EPC project execution environment
• Strong leadership, communication, and coordination skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive project outcomes
• Compliance with site-specific requirements, including drug/alcohol programs and safety policies

Preferred Qualifications

• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE)
• Experience as Mechanical Lead on EPC combined cycle power plant projects
• Demonstrated experience managing multidisciplinary engineering teams
• Strong understanding of construction, commissioning, and startup phases