Senior Mechanical Engineer, Keephills – Temporary (12-Month)

WHO WE ARE

Our Power, Your Possibilities

At TransAlta, we don’t just generate electricity-we generate opportunity. As one of Canada’s largest publicly traded power generators, we’ve been powering communities for over 100 years across Canada, the U.S., and Australia. Our diverse energy portfolio and passionate team are driving the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

We believe in the power of purpose, the strength of collaboration, and the value of continuous learning. If you’re ready to make a real impact in a dynamic industry, you bring the energy and we’ll provide the platform.

For more information about TransAlta, visit our website at, www.transalta.com.

ABOUT THE ROLE

TransAlta is seeking a talented and experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our engineering team at the Keephills Thermal Plant. This position provides technical expertise to support the safe and efficient operation of the Keephills Generating Station, while also providing mechanical engineering support to the Battle River and Sheerness Generating Stations as required. Key responsibilities include maintenance planning, outage scope development, equipment evaluation, and troubleshooting. Additional duties include managing projects for plant upgrades and repairs, develop technical specifications, and review design and bid proposals. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on reliability and performance across our operations.

This is a temporary (12-month), safety sensitive position based out of our Keephills Thermal Plant, situated 70 kilometers west of Edmonton, AB and five kilometers south of Wabamun Lake.

This is a safety-sensitive position. The successful candidate will be required to complete pre-employment testing.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

• Develop effective maintenance plans and forecasts based on inspection results and condition monitoring for gas turbines and plant equipment.
• Prepare long-term maintenance strategies, budgets, and lifecycle plans, including capital expenditure planning for major and minor outages.
• Investigate and troubleshoot mechanical equipment issues, providing timely technical recommendations to ensure reliability.
• Lead mechanical or multi-discipline projects, including research, cost analysis, and technical solution development.
• Write technical procurement specifications, obtain competitive bids, and participate in contractor and equipment selection.
• Supervise contractors to ensure scope, quality, cost, and schedule compliance.
• Apply industry standards and best practices to maintain code compliance while balancing cost and reliability objectives.
• Perform and interpret condition monitoring analyses such as oil and vibration analysis.
• Plan and support major maintenance activities, including turnarounds and unplanned outages, with detailed work scopes and inspection plans.
• Promote Health, Safety, Security, and Environment policies and mentor Engineers and Engineers-in-Training.
• Provide support to other business areas as required.

ABOUT YOU

• Mechanical Engineering degree from a recognized institution and registered as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) with APEGA, or another provincial association with inter-provincial mobility.
• 7-10 years of relevant experience in thermal/gas-fired power generation or a comparable industry (additional experience considered an asset).
• Strong background in troubleshooting equipment, power station operations, construction, and commissioning.
• Experience with maintenance planning, work scope development, and supporting outages, turnarounds, and inspections.
• Skilled in reviewing engineering design documents (P&IDs, piping isometrics, drawings, specifications) and preparing scopes for plant modifications.
• Knowledge of root cause analysis, condition monitoring interpretation, and corrective action planning.
• Working knowledge of large rotating equipment, boilers/HRSGs, pressure equipment, piping systems, and thermodynamics.
• Familiarity with industry standards (ASME, CSA) and proficiency in Microsoft Office; SAP experience is an asset.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills; ability to work independently and lead by example.
• Comfortable with field work and extended durations during outages.
• Project management and vibration analysis training are considered assets.
• Valid Class 5 driver’s license.

Other Details

• This position is based out of our Keephills Thermal plant and will require frequent travel to remote site locations for field work up to 15% of the time.

OUR CULTURE

At TransAlta, we’re driven by a Culture of Results, Learning, and Purpose. We prioritize psychological safety, wellbeing, inclusion, and belonging - creating a space where everyone can thrive. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation and progress, and we’re committed to building a workplace where you can be your authentic self.

Ready to Power Up With Us? Excited about this role but don’t meet every single requirement? We still encourage you to apply. Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply for a job unless they meet every single qualification. You might just be the candidate we are looking for.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The successful candidate may be required to complete background checks appropriate to the role and may include criminal record, education and employment verification or credit checks. ‘Safety sensitive positions’ will be required to complete pre-employment testing.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those progressing will be contacted.