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Location: Charlotte (Location Flexible)
Contract Type: Permanent

Our client, a global leader in hydropower engineering and renewable‑energy solutions, is seeking a highly experienced Hydropower Subject Matter Expert (SME) to join their North American engineering team. With more than 185 years of technical heritage and a global presence spanning over 40 countries, the company is at the forefront of delivering sustainable hydropower systems that support the global transition to clean energy.

Joining this team means contributing to some of the industry's most complex and impactful hydroelectric projects, providing expert guidance across design, manufacturing, installation, and commissioning.

Role Overview

The Hydropower Subject Matter Expert will report directly to the Engineering Manager for U.S. hydropower and serve as the technical lead on high‑priority, time‑sensitive projects. This position is responsible for addressing the most complex engineering challenges related to hydroelectric turbines, generators, gates, and balance‑of‑plant (BOP) systems.

The SME will provide advanced technical consultation, mentor engineers across experience levels, lead design reviews, and support risk analysis, proposal development, and strategic decision-making throughout the project lifecycle. This role is critical in ensuring quality, reliability, and technical excellence across all hydropower engineering activities.

Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership & Engineering SupportProvide documented technical guidance on field and design‑related issues.Lead design reviews and issue formal technical recommendations.Conduct or support mechanical stack‑up calculations and design interface assessments.Mentor engineers in turbine and generator design methodologies and best practices.Analyze mechanical components using in‑house tools or developing custom calculations.Review and approve mechanical drawings to ensure compliance with contractual and internal standards.Project & Risk ManagementSupport proposal development, including budgetary and schedule reviews.Identify technical risks, propose mitigation strategies, and contribute to strategic technical decisions.Record and communicate lessons learned, including corrective and preventive actions.Assist in planning engineering activities across multiple project phases.Quality, Testing & Field SupportPrepare technical reports addressing non‑conformances and required dispositions.Define technical requirements for manufacturing, installation, and testing.Review and interpret site data and field testing results.Provide technical support during manufacturing, installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting.Participate in problem‑solving and root‑cause analysis efforts. Candidate ProfileExperience & Expertise15+ years of experience in hydropower engineering.Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.Deep technical mastery of hydroelectric turbines, generators, and associated systems.Broad experience across hydropower product development, installation, and commissioning.Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.Skills & AttributesStrong mentorship capabilities and ability to guide multi‑disciplinary engineering teams.High sense of urgency and ability to address critical technical needs in real time.Comfortable working in complex, fast‑paced environments with shifting priorities.Excellent written communication skills for conveying complex technical issues.Ability to navigate large organizations and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.Technical CompetenciesProficiency in CAD tools (Siemens NX preferred).Strong knowledge of engineering and business processes.Excellent command of MS Office Suite and relevant IT tools.Ability to travel 10-15% domestically and internationally.What the Company OffersLife, disability, dental, and extended health insurance401(k) matchingHybrid work modelAnnual bonus programEmployee assistance programIndividualized training and career development plans Final Summary

This role represents a key technical leadership position for an accomplished hydropower engineer seeking to influence high‑impact renewable‑energy projects. The Hydropower Subject Matter Expert will serve as the organization's primary authority on turbine, generator, and BOP engineering challenges, while guiding teams, shaping project strategy, and ensuring technical excellence across all stages of project execution. Candidates with deep hydropower expertise, strong communication skills, and a passion for solving complex engineering problems will thrive in this highly visible and rewarding role.