Project Development Engineer

Title: Project Development Engineer

Position Type: Contract

Location: Alliquippa, PA

Reports to: Project Director

Key Requirements:

• 10+ years of experience in power project development, engineering, or EPC support
• Familiarity with gas turbine power generation systems, especially greenfield development
• Strong understanding of permitting, BOP systems, and early-phase engineering
• Hands-on approach with excellent cross-functional coordination skills
• Ability to support transition from development to execution and field mobilization

Job Summary:

NAES has a great opportunity for an experienced Project Development Engineer to support the early-stage development of a simple-cycle natural gas power plant located in Western Pennsylvania. This role will play a critical part in advancing the technical and commercial readiness of the project by supporting front-end engineering, equipment selection, permitting coordination, and construction planning activities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support technical development and design coordination for a large-scale power generation project
• Conduct feasibility analyses, engineering reviews, and risk assessments
• Collaborate with OEMs and EPCs to develop technical scopes, schedules, and cost estimates
• Assist with the procurement of major equipment and BOP systems
• Participate in permitting and environmental compliance processes
• Provide input into project budgeting, scheduling, and execution planning
• Conduct site assessments and support constructability and logistics planning
• Coordinate with internal teams, consultants, and external stakeholders to move the project from development to construction readiness
• Contribute to regular project updates and leadership presentations

Job Requirements:

• Strong knowledge of gas turbine systems and balance-of-plant (BOP) infrastructure
• Experience supporting permitting, interconnection, and environmental compliance processes
• Proven ability to review and interpret engineering design packages and technical specifications
• Familiarity with procurement planning, budgeting, and early-stage project scheduling
• Demonstrated success collaborating with OEMs, EPCs, and internal cross-functional teams
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present technical concepts to leadership
• Ability to work independently and drive development activities with minimal oversight
• Proficiency in tools such as MS Project, Excel, and engineering collaboration platforms preferred

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods and participate in meetings on-site or virtually.
• Occasional project site visits may require walking, climbing stairs/ladders, and wearing appropriate safety gear.

Education / Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or similar) required
• 10+ years of relevant experience in project development or early-phase EPC projects
• Experience with natural gas or power generation projects strongly preferred
• Master's degree or relevant certifications a plus