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