Southern Company

Engineer (New Generation / Combined Cycle) [BHM or ATL]

Southern Company • $80K — $110K *
Birmingham, AL 35242In-Person
Energy & Utilities
Less than 5 years of experience
1 week ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • B.S. in Engineering required; P.E. License is a plus.
  • Knowledge of power generation systems, particularly combined cycle plants and auxiliary systems.
  • Experience with Distributed Control Systems and/or PLCs required; Emerson (Ovation) and MHI Netmation experience is a plus.
  • Basic knowledge of networking design and troubleshooting preferred, with additional skills in OT/Windows Server administration and protocols like Modbus TCP/IP an advantage.
  • Knowledge of industry cyber security best practices desirable.
  • Basic knowledge of instrumentation design (temperature, level, pressure, flow) required.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills essential for effective project teamwork.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and support DCS/Simulator design activities including specifications and system layouts.
  • Provide vendor oversight during design reviews and factory witness tests.
  • Act as subject matter expert on I&C-related matters across engineering disciplines.
  • Participate in project meetings including EPC updates and schedule reviews.
  • Provide onsite field support for DCS and Simulator installation and testing.
  • Assist with operational troubleshooting and corrective actions in partnership with plant personnel.
  • Develop and implement enhancements to improve unit reliability and performance.

Benefits

  • Flexible work location in Birmingham, AL or Atlanta, GA.
  • Relocation assistance available for eligible candidates.
  • Opportunity for a hybrid work schedule with a balance of in-office and telecommuting days.
  • Engagement in a collaborative team environment.
  • Exposure and participation in industry conferences and networking opportunities.
Full Job Description
Job Description

WORK LOCATION / SCHEDULE
  • This position is flexible to be based out of either Birmingham, AL or Atlanta, GA
  • Work schedule (in-office, field and telecommute); currently four (4) days in-office and one (1) day telecommute (subject to adjustment).
  • This position will require a mixture of both field and office work.
  • Relocation assistance is available if you do not already live within a reasonable commute distance.


PLEASE NOTE: This position will be filled at the appropriate level based on the relevant experience and qualifications of the successful candidate.

JOB SUMMARY

This position manages and supports I&C-related activities across new generation and combined cycle projects, including scope, schedule, budget, procurement, and performance tracking. The role provides project support beginning with front-end planning, detailed design and field execution, and continuing through startup and commissioning. The role also drives consistency across new generation projects and evaluates emerging technologies, including generative AI and autonomous control solutions.

Key responsibilities include:
  • Lead and support DCS / Simulator design activities such as issuing technical specifications, developing system layouts, IO list development, control logic, graphics and alarm management.
  • Provide vendor oversight and support for DCS / Simulator software and hardware through design reviews and factory witness tests.
  • Serve as subject matter expert for all I&C-related matters with other engineering disciplines and project representatives.
  • Participate in all project related meetings, including weekly/monthly EPC updates, 3D-model reviews, schedule and procurement reviews, and site walkdowns.
  • Provide onsite field support during construction and startup project phases, assisting with DCS and Simulator installation, power/ground checks, functional I/O testing and system checkout for all combined cycle, turbine, and balance of plant processes.
  • Provide operational troubleshooting and corrective-action support by partnering with plant personnel to diagnose issues, mitigate impacts, and improve unit performance.
  • Develop and implement operational enhancements that increase unit reliability, flexibility, and operability.
  • Develop and deliver CC/CT system training and support, as needed.


JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education:
  • B.S. in Engineering is required
  • P.E. License is a plus


Skills / Experience:
  • Knowledge of power generation systems, particularly combined cycle plants, as well as associated auxiliary systems.
    • Power plant experience or prior assignment within a plant is a plus.
  • Experience with Distributed Control Systems and/or PLCs is required.
    • Experience in Emerson (Ovation) is a plus
    • Experience in MHI Netmation is a plus
  • Basic knowledge of networking design and troubleshooting is preferred.
    • OT / Windows Server administration skills are a plus.
    • Experience with protocols such as Modbus TCP/IP, Modbus Serial, DNP3, OPC is a plus.
  • Knowledge of industry cyber security best practices including physical and electronic access limitations is desirable.
  • Basic knowledge of instrumentation design (temperature, level, pressure, flow, vibration, analytical) is required.
  • Possess strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with project teams, plant personnel, vendors, and other stakeholders to develop and execute successful project deliverables.
  • Exhibit organizational and leadership skills to coordinate multi-discipline project activities within established scopes, budgets and schedules.
  • High proficiency in Microsoft Office suite is required.
  • Actively participate in relevant industry conferences, forums and committees.


Behavioral Attributes:
  • Demonstrate Southern Company Values and be customer focused.
  • Possess a strong personal safety record with a Safety-First mindset.
  • The candidate must possess strong project management and operational analytical skills and must be able to manage multiple projects and assignments.
  • Must be able to work both independently with no supervision or as a member of a team with direction, as required.
  • Exhibit excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to present studies, reports, and evaluations to senior and executive leadership.


TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
  • This position requires travel (approximately 25%) outside the normal office location.
  • Some travel outside the Southern Company system to other sites and vendors will also be required.


For a list of our benefits, please review this link.

About the Team

Southern Company Services

About Southern Company

With 4.4 million customers and more than 42,000 megawatts of generating capacity, Atlanta-based Southern Company is the premier energy company serving the Southeast. A leading U.S. producer of electricity, Southern Company owns electric utilities in four states and a growing competitive generation company, as well as fiber optics and wireless communications. Southern Company brands are known for excellent customer service, high reliability and retail electric prices that are significantly below the national average. Southern Company has been listed the top ranking U.S. electric service provider in customer satisfaction for nine consecutive years by the American Customer Satisfaction Index.

Southern Company Careers

Join the dynamic team at Southern Company, a leader in energy innovation and a champion of sustainable practices. As one of the most respected companies in the energy sector, Southern Company offers unparalleled job opportunities that promise not only professional growth but also a commitment to diversity and leadership development.

Work You’ll Do

At Southern Company, we are not just about power generation; we are about empowering our team to innovate and lead the industry. By joining our team, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field, using your skills to solve complex problems and drive meaningful change.

Explore a World of Opportunities

Whether you are looking for a full-time position, an internship, or a leadership role, Southern Company has a place for you. Our wide range of employment options ensures that every team member can find a path that best suits their career ambitions and skills.

Innovate and Lead

Southern Company is at the forefront of technological innovation in the energy sector. Our team members are encouraged to lead projects and initiatives that push the boundaries of what is possible in energy production and management.

Grow and Develop

We believe in nurturing the potential of our employees through targeted diversity training, leadership workshops, and continuous professional development. Career growth at Southern Company is not just a possibility—it is an expectation.

Be Part of Our Culture

Southern Company’s culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and inclusion. We celebrate diversity and believe that it drives innovation. Our team is our family, and we support each other in achieving personal and professional goals.

Benefits That Go Beyond

Choosing a career at Southern Company means enjoying a range of benefits designed to enrich your life and support your lifestyle. From health and wellness programs to retirement plans, we ensure our team members are taken care of.

Join Our Team

Ready to power up your career? Explore the job opportunities at Southern Company today. We are actively hiring and looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven individuals. Enhance your skills, join a community of innovators, and work towards a sustainable future.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Southern Company by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and practical tips to advance your career.

Networking and Career Advancement

At Southern Company, networking and internal mobility are key components of career advancement. Connect with leaders, engage in cross-departmental projects, and take your professional journey to new heights.

Prepare for Your Interview

Make your mark from the first interview. Visit our career site for tips on crafting your resume, preparing for interviews, and making a lasting impression.

Join Southern Company—where careers glow brighter!

SEARCH SOUTHERN COMPANY JOBS Stay ahead of the curve in your career with Southern Company, where innovation meets tradition and every employee is empowered to excel.
Learn more about Southern Company
Size
27,000 employees
Market Cap
$77.6 billion
Industry
Energy & Utilities
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+3%
Revenue
$20.3 billion
* Ladders Estimates

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