American Electric Power

CEMS Engineer Associate (entry-level) | GENERATION FLEET

American Electric Power$86K — $90K *
Energy & Utilities
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related technical field in Instrumentation/Electronics.
  • Experience in instrumentation, controls, environmental monitoring, or power plant systems.
  • Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude with willingness to work in operating plant environments.
  • Ability to quickly learn CEMS hardware, sample systems, DAHS platforms, and basic operational aspects of code and regulation requirements.
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel periodically.

Responsibilities

  • Assist with maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of CEMS gas analyzers and sample systems.
  • Provide remote and on-site support for CEMS instrumentation and DAHS systems.
  • Support DAHS operations, data validation, and quality assurance reviews.
  • Participate in linearity tests and cylinder gas audits.
  • Review CEMS data for accuracy and assist in resolving data gaps.
  • Contribute to project teams evaluating CEMS and DAHS requirements.
  • Support Environmental Services on technical matters regarding CEMS function.

Benefits

  • Discretionary annual incentive.
  • 401(k) plan and pension.
  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Vacation time and educational assistance.
Full Job Description
Job Posting End Date
08-29-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

As an Associate CEMS Engineer, you will develop hands-on experience supporting Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems across our Gas and Coal fleet. This role provides exposure to a unique mix of instrumentation, controls, analyzers, sample systems, DAHS platforms, alarming, and field troubleshooting while helping improve system reliability, data integrity, and fleet standardization. You will work with experienced engineers, plant personnel, and Environmental Services to learn a specialized area that is critical to reliable and compliant generation operations.

Job Description

More Specific to This Opportunity:

Key Responsibilities
  • Assist with maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of CEMS gas analyzers, flow monitors, opacity, mercury, particulate systems, probes, and sample systems.
  • Provide remote and on-site support for configuration, troubleshooting, diagnosis, and calibration coordination of CEMS instrumentation and DAHS systems.
  • Support DAHS operations, data validation, quality assurance reviews, and alarming.
  • Participate in linearity tests, cylinder gas audits, RATA support, and QA/QC activities.
  • Review CEMS data for accuracy, identify issues, and help resolve data gaps or system performance concerns before data is handed off to Environmental Services.
  • Participate as an I&C resource to project teams to evaluate and implement CEMS and DAHS project requirements.
  • Support Environmental Services and plant operations personnel on technical matters related to CEMS/DAHS system function and configuration.
  • Interpret and follow applicable regulations, codes, and standards relevant to CEMS/DAHS systems, with guidance from experienced engineering and Environmental Services personnel.
  • Document work and contribute to procedures and fleet standardization efforts.
  • Travel to generating stations for field support as needed.


WHAT YOU'LL DO

Technical Expertise: Possesses entry-level knowledge and experience in the application of theory to solve well-defined problems or provide analysis, with guidance from higher-level engineers. Assists higher-level engineers in handling well-defined portions of more complex problems and analyses. Exhibits fundamental understanding of standards, codes and regulations relevant to the area of assignment. Gains familiarity with standards, codes and regulations relevant to the area of assignment. Gains familiarity with pertinent equipment, materials, systems and business processes.

Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others as required to resolve routine engineering tasks. Demonstrates working knowledge of appropriate policies and procedures; however, activities are generally monitored by higher-level employees to ensure work is performed in accordance with established guidelines. Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher-level employees. Demonstrates ability to work with others in both supplying information and seeking assistance as necessary. Demonstrates willingness and capabilities to assume leadership roles.

Planning & Organization Ability: Provides input to routine project planning documents related to scheduling and understands the use of scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Monitors project status and recommends action accordingly. Prepares cost estimates using established standards. Develops understanding of the workflow for routine engineering projects. Accomplishes work according to plans and schedules established by higher-level employees.

Problem Solving & Initiative: Actively seeks out information and understanding of engineering problems and solution techniques applicable to area of responsibility. Applies basic techniques to perform analysis associated with the resolution of routine technical problems. Uses initiative in looking for opportunities and presenting new ideas and new approaches.

Communication: Assists and participates in the preparation of reports and technical papers. Assimilates information and instructions readily. Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing and presents ideas clearly. Listens to and understands instructions, and requests clarification as required.

Interpersonal Skills: Begins networking with peers to share information and encourage cooperation. Understands the agendas and perspectives of others. Develops effective give-and-take relationship. Demonstrates the ability to be a team player. Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.

Decision Making: Knows which decisions they are authorized to make. Develops decision-making skills under guidance of higher-level employees and makes routine decisions subject to review and contributes to team decision-making.

Business Awareness & Characteristics: Demonstrates an attitude and desire to listen to and satisfy both internal and external customers who use and depend upon their organizational unit's work. Applies economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Pursues effective ways to protect and enhance the environment while providing reliable electricity at a competitive cost. Active participation in professional and business organizations is encouraged. Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the department.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

This is an entry-level position for new graduates with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*; Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future licensing as a Professional Engineer (PE) is encouraged and preferred.

Individuals with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

*VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non ABET accredited program

Other Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related technical field in Instrumentation/Electronics plus relevant experience.
  • Experience in instrumentation, controls, environmental monitoring, or power plant systems.
  • Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude with willingness to work in operating plant environments.
  • Ability to quickly learn CEMS hardware, sample systems, DAHS platforms, and basic operational aspects of code and regulation requirements.
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel periodically.

Knowledge and Skills
  • Basic knowledge, understanding, and application of process/industrial control and monitoring systems.
  • Basic knowledge of process instrumentation, including CEMS-specific equipment (e.g., gas analyzers, sampling systems, probes).
  • Basic knowledge of, or aptitude to learn, DAHS configuration and administration.
  • Familiarity with PLC programming is a plus.
  • Basic experience with computer networking, in addition to Modbus, OPC, and other communications protocols, including the ability to troubleshoot issues.
  • Ability to analyze and interpret technical writings and drawings such as SAMA logic diagrams, flow diagrams, one-line diagrams, electrical elementary diagrams, wiring diagrams, P&IDs, schematics, and other technical documentation.
  • Comfortable with data tools (Excel required; SQL or similar a plus).
  • Strong analytical skills (verbal and written) and clear communication skills.
  • Willingness to develop OT network and cybersecurity awareness as they apply to CEMS.
  • Experience with computer-based instruments is a plus.

Working Conditions
  • Primarily day shift with overtime as required.
  • Periodic travel (day trips and overnight stays) to generating stations.
  • Indoor/outdoor work with exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, fumes, and operating equipment.
  • Mandatory PPE at stations: hard hat, eye/hearing protection, steel-toed shoes with heels and non-slip soles.
  • Strict adherence to site-specific safety requirements.


Join a team building real bench strength in CEMS and emissions monitoring across the generation fleet.

WHAT YOU'LL GET

Base Salary: approximately $86K - $90K

In addition to base salary, AEP offers competitive Total Rewards including: discretionary annual incentive, 401(k), pension, health insurance, vacation, educational assistance, etc.

AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER (on-site)

$86K - $90K / Year

#AEPCareers

#LI-ONSITE

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-006

Compensation Range:

$74,551.00 - $128,688.00

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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About American Electric Power

American Electric Power generates, transmits, and distributes electricity, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers nationwide. AEP serves millions of customers across 11 states. It operates in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, providing power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. AEP generates electricity using diverse sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable energy like wind and solar. The company maintains a vast transmission network that delivers electricity from power plants to local distribution systems, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. AEP is actively involved in renewable energy initiatives, investing in wind farms and solar facilities to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, the company engages in community outreach, supporting education, environmental conservation, and various social initiatives.

American Electric Power Careers

Join the dynamic team at American Electric Power (AEP), one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, and ignite your career with a company known for its commitment to innovation and leadership in the energy sector.

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Embark on a journey of growth and professional development with AEP. Our company is at the forefront of the energy industry’s transformation, integrating sustainable and innovative practices that not only lead the market but also contribute to a greener planet. Engage in work that challenges the status quo, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the energy sector.

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AEP is dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, where every team member’s contribution is valued. We offer competitive benefits that support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. From comprehensive health benefits to professional development programs and diversity training, AEP ensures that our team is equipped for both personal and professional success.

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Leadership at AEP means more than guiding teams – it involves inspiring change and driving innovation. With leadership development programs, employees are prepared to take on challenging roles that shape the future of the company and the industry. Our focus on leadership and continuous improvement creates an environment where ambitious professionals can thrive.

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Learn more about American Electric Power
Size
16,688 employees
Market Cap
$48.8 billion
Industry
Net Income
$2.2 billion
Founded
1906
5 Year Trend
+0.5%
Revenue
$14.9 billion
NASDAQ

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