Power Generation Entry Mechanical Engineer

Open until filled - Candidates are encouraged to apply early as this posting may close at any time without notice on or after May 27, 2026.

SMUD delivers power to more than 1.5 million customers throughout the Sacramento area. As a community‑owned, not‑for‑profit electric service, we’ve been providing low‑cost, reliable electricity for over 75 years. Our hydroelectric system is a key part of that, transforming Sierra water resources into clean, renewable energy for our communities.

SMUD is seeking a mechanical engineer with power generation or heavy industrial experience to support maintenance projects at the nine hydroelectric powerhouses in the Upper American River Project. In this hands‑on role, you will be working with the maintenance engineering group in Pollock Pines, CA to maintain and upgrade the mechanical equipment that keeps our hydropower system at peak reliability. The ideal candidate is a good communicator, comfortable managing projects in the field, and enjoys working alongside skilled craft workers on construction projects.

Under general supervision, assists in performing minor to moderately complex mechanical engineering core responsibilities, including problem resolution and project assignments, in the most efficient, safe, and cost‑effective manner, and that comply with regulatory requirements and restrictions.

• Assist in performing minor to moderately complex engineering designs for mechanical systems, applying State and National codes, SMUD standards, and construction guidelines. Assist in making modifications that enhance asset reliability and efficiency.
• Assist in preparation of project documentation, including Design Change Notification (DCN) packages, and manage revisions using the Generation Design document control system.
• Assist in the development of bid package specifications for procurement of materials and services related to mechanical projects, ensuring compliance with SMUD project standards. Coordinate procurement processes for less complex projects with supply chain services.
• Utilize Computer‑Aided Design (CAD) software to create and update engineering drawings.
• For projects with lower complexity, assume a primary role in coordinating and communicating from job initiation to completion, ensuring all tasks are executed on time and within designated budgets.
• Conduct field investigations to gather measurements and collect data, verifying existing configurations against project documentation, ensuring proper installation by contractors. Assist in producing as‑built drawings and perform on‑site visits to ensure facility installations comply with design specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Support the transition of projects from the design phase to operational status by creating schedules, defining testing and acceptance criteria, and compiling reports, ensuring adherence to established regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with senior engineers and project teams to ensure that asset modifications enhance reliability and efficiency while complying with regulatory requirements and cost‑efficiency targets.
• Perform other related duties as needed; schedules, hours and locations may fluctuate based on business needs.

• Assist with routine inspections and basic performance monitoring of hydroelectric turbines, generators, penstocks, gates, valves, hydraulic systems, and auxiliary equipment (e.g., cooling water systems, lubricating oil systems, air compressors).
• Support troubleshooting activities by collecting operational data, evaluating vibration/noise issues, and documenting maintenance needs for mechanical components of hydro plants.
• Participate in preventive and corrective maintenance planning, including scheduling, coordinating with plant staff, and updating computerized maintenance systems with outcomes.
• Support regulatory and safety inspections by preparing required reports and assisting with documentation related to dam safety, pressure vessel certifications, and plant safety features.
• Assist in the development and update of Standard Operating Procedures for mechanical…