Mechanical Engineer

General Summary of Job Responsibilities

The Mechanical Engineer assists in the development, design and testing of new products or systems. The incumbent works on a team with other engineers, scientist and technicians on moderately complex projects to ensure that their projects meet all relevant safety standards and specifications. Tests mechanical and electromechanical products and systems and is responsible for the mechanical testing and maintenance of products in production, as well as testing prototypes. 

Transmission Enhancements for Deliverability and Integrity (TED-I) Engineering is responsible for the engineering and design of Remote Control Valves (RCVs), Rupture Mitigation Valves (RMVs), Major Gas Transmission pipelines, including the lowering of gas pipelines and relocations, emergency valve replacements, and other compliance-driven pipeline projects. TED-I Engineering also provides engineering, field, and technical expertise to other departments

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Serving as primary Project Engineer on a wide variety of transmission pipeline projects, including RCVs, RMVs, valve replacements, major pipeline replacements and relocations, pipeline lowerings, and other projects performed in support of pipeline safety, deliverability, integrity, and compliance.
• Interfacing with internal and external contacts to execute transmission pipeline projects. Internal contacts include but not limited to Project Management, Project Controls, Supply Chain, Operations, Pipeline Integrity, Gas Control, and Real Estate. External contacts include but not limited to Contractors, Governmental Agencies, other utilities and companies.
• Execution of engineering-specific project tasks, such as pipeline design, material selection, scope document creation, submission of purchase and service requisitions, project outage procedures, emergency plan revisions, drawings review, and field technical support.
• Constructing, Writing, collaborating on, and providing input to, Consumers Energy's own engineering specifications, engineering standard revisions, approved materials, and established processes.
• Performing engineering studies related to pipeline safety, including external loading, buoyancy, and maximum
• allowable operating pressure (MAOP).
• Conducting project site walk-downs, coordinating meetings, and providing project/program updates to Consumers Energy management and the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
• Supporting studies related to field-identified changes in population density, construction, depth of cover, and other
• pipeline issues.
• Establishing and strengthening the transmission pipeline engineering department commitment as Trusted Energy Partner for internal and external customers.
• Helping to develop the strategic plan for transmission pipeline asset relocation.
• Supporting other transmission pipeline engineering activities as needed.

The reporting location of this position is negotiable.  Reporting location may be limited during first several months depending on experience level of selected candidate and departmental needs.  Ability to travel and support project work across the state is required.

Other Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with customers, coworkers, and others to discuss existing or potential engineering products or projects
• Perform a wide range of engineering tasks by operating computer-assisted design or engineering software and equipment
• Ensure that installation and operations conform to standards and customer requirements by preparing mechanical systems specifications, technical drawings, or topographical maps
• Ensure compliance with specifications, codes, or customer requirements by directing or coordinating installation, manufacturing, construction, maintenance, documentation, support, or testing activities
• Write reports and compile data regarding existing and potential mechanical engineering projects and studies
• Prepare specifications for purchases of mechanical equipment and materials and estimate material, labor, or construction costs for budget preparation
• Design, control, and implement mechanical systems and products
• Design, maintain, implement, or improve mechanical instruments, facilities, components, equipment products, or systems for industrial, commercial, or domestic purposes
• Other duties as assigned or may be necessary
• Establish construction, manufacturing, or installation standards or specifications by performing a wide range of detailed calculations

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Written and verbal communication skills
• Strong understanding of GD&T principles
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Mechanical and technical skills
• Proficient with computer-assisted design (CAD) software; SolidWorks, Inventor or Cre preferred
• Organizational skills and attention to detail
• Proficient in MS Office, with aptitude for learning new software

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from an ABET accredited program OR Engineering degree from a non-ABET accredited program plus a Professional Engineering license with 2 years of experience in mechanical engineering roles

The following skills and qualifications are preferred:

• Experience in pipeline engineering
• Knowledge of ASME B31.8, 49 CFR 192, and the Michigan Gas Safety Standards
• Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the State of Michigan
• Knowledge and application of regulatory compliance and utility trends
• Knowledge and/or experience in utility operations, preferred in Gas Operations
• Experience mentoring employees and leading teams
• The ability to meet and manage multiple deadlines
• Excellent communication skills
• The ability to solve complex problems; taking new perspectives using existing solutions
• Proficiency in SAP, Microsoft applications such as Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.