Senior Piping Engineer (Gas Power Generation Projects)

About us

TAaKA Engineering is a Tokyo-based engineering consulting company that specializes in prime power, dispatchable power, gas, data centers, and commercial and industrial energy projects in the U.S. Our current portfolio predominantly consists of solar projects, but we are expanding our expertise to include microgrids and data center infrastructure. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, we aim to revolutionize the energy engineering landscape.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Piping Engineer to support power generation systems that integrate gas turbines, PV solar, BESS, and other technologies to meet the unique energy demands of large industrial facilities and data centers. The ideal candidate will have expertise in the design, installation, and maintenance of piping systems for gas-based power plants. This role will involve managing all aspects of piping engineering, from the design phase to commissioning, ensuring that all systems meet the required performance, safety, and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Piping System Design

   • Design piping systems for gas power generation plants, including gas, steam, water, and fuel piping systems.

   • Ensure that piping designs comply with industry codes, standards, and regulations (e.g., ASME, ANSI, API, ISO).

   • Prepare detailed piping layout drawings, system schematics, and support design, ensuring systems are efficient, safe, and cost-effective.

   • Conduct stress analysis, fluid dynamics calculations, and sizing of pipes, valves, pumps, and associated components for optimal system performance.

2. Piping Materials & Equipment Selection

   • Select appropriate materials for piping systems based on fluid types, temperature, pressure, and corrosion considerations.

   • Specify and select valves, fittings, supports, and other components in line with project requirements.

   • Coordinate with procurement teams to ensure the timely acquisition of materials and equipment for construction.

3. Piping Layout & Integration

   • Develop 3D piping layouts and detailed drawings to facilitate the efficient construction of gas power plants.

   • Work closely with other engineers (mechanical, electrical, civil) to ensure proper integration of piping systems with other plant components.

   • Ensure that piping systems are designed to minimize interference with other plant systems and equipment while maintaining safety and operational efficiency.

4. Stress Analysis & Flow Assurance

   • Perform stress analysis and ensure that piping systems can handle thermal expansion, pressure changes, and mechanical loads.

   • Conduct flow assurance studies to verify that the piping system design supports the proper flow rates and system pressures.

   • Address potential vibration, fatigue, or other dynamic issues to avoid operational disruptions and ensure the long-term reliability of the system.

5. Installation, Commissioning & Supervision

   • Oversee the installation of piping systems, ensuring that all components are installed per design specifications and industry standards.

   • Provide technical guidance during the commissioning phase to ensure all systems are functioning as intended.

   • Supervise piping construction teams, ensuring adherence to quality control processes, safety standards, and project schedules.

6. Quality Control & Compliance

   • Ensure that all piping designs and installations comply with relevant quality standards and regulations.

   • Conduct regular inspections, weld checks, and testing to confirm the integrity of piping systems.

   • Maintain detailed documentation of design changes, material certifications, installation procedures, and inspection results.

7. Maintenance & Troubleshooting

   • Develop preventive maintenance programs for piping systems to ensure the safe and reliable operation of gas power plants.

   • Provide troubleshooting support for any piping-related issues during plant operation, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions as needed.

   • Recommend modifications or upgrades to improve the performance or safety of existing piping systems.

8. Collaboration & Reporting

   • Coordinate with project managers, contractors, and other engineers to ensure the successful execution of piping-related activities within power generation projects.

   • Provide technical input during project design reviews and progress meetings.

   • Prepare and present regular reports on project progress, technical challenges, and solutions.

Required Qualifications & Skills:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering or a related field. Professional certifications (e.g., Piping Design, ASME) would be advantageous.

• Experience:

  • 5+ years of experience in piping engineering, specifically in gas power generation projects or similar energy sectors.

  • Proven expertise in the design, installation, and maintenance of piping systems in industrial applications.

  • Hands-on experience with piping stress analysis software (e.g., CAESAR II, AutoPIPE) and familiarity with relevant codes and standards (ASME B31.1, ASME B31.3, etc.).

• Technical Skills:

  • In-depth knowledge of piping materials, pipe support systems, and welding techniques.

  • Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and pressure drop calculations.

  • Proficiency in engineering software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or 3D modeling tools for piping design.

  • Knowledge of system integration, including HVAC, steam, and fuel systems for power plants.

• Project Management Skills:

  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously, adhering to project timelines, budgets, and safety standards.

  • Experience in managing piping teams and working with contractors and vendors to deliver high-quality systems.

• Communication & Teamwork:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively collaborate with internal teams, contractors, and clients.

  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.

  • Proficiency in English.

Desirable Skills & Attributes:

• Experience with gas turbine power generation and associated piping systems.

• Familiarity with advanced piping design methods, such as flexible pipe designs and high-pressure systems.

• Strong focus on sustainability and energy-efficient design practices.

• Ability to address complex engineering challenges and provide creative solutions.

• Knowledge of plant safety standards and risk management practices.