GE Vernova is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Application Engineer to lead the technical solution design and cost estimation for large-scale EPC and BOP projects related to VFD systems and associated technologies. The role focuses on developing integrated solutions, assessing technical risks, and providing competitive proposals to enhance the company's success in high-value tenders.
Responsibilities:
- Lead the technical review and response for complex VFD systems/STATCOM/Synchronous condenser tenders, ensuring proposed solutions are technically sound, compliant with specifications, risk mitigated and competitively costed. This includes preparing comprehensive and detailed technical cost estimates for our entire scope, factoring in equipment, site-specific requirements, materials, labor, and contingencies
- Conduct detailed site surveys (remotely or physically, as required) to understand existing infrastructure, identify potential integration challenges, and gather critical data for system design and accurate cost estimation. Translate site conditions and unique project constraints into precise cost implications
- Develop comprehensive system architectures for VFD systems/STATCOM/Synchronous condenser integration, considering the entire balance of plant, grid codes, control philosophies, and relevant industry standards. Proactively apply value engineering principles to optimize technical solutions for cost-effectiveness without compromising performance or tender compliance
- Translate customer functional and technical requirements from tenders into detailed system designs and specifications, including interfaces, control logic, protection schemes, and communication protocols. Provide precise costing input for all required interfaces, integration components, and third-party equipment
- Collaborate closely with sales, and commercial teams to clearly define the technical scope, identify technical risks, and support commercial negotiations by providing robust technical justifications and detailed, accurate overall solution cost estimations
- Define and manage technical interfaces with other OEMs (e.g., transformers, switchgear, control systems, generators) and sub-suppliers. Actively solicit technical data and cost inputs from potential sub-suppliers to incorporate into tender proposals
- Proactively identify potential technical, logistical, and cost-related risks associated with integrated solutions and propose effective mitigation strategies during the tender phase
- Present complex technical solutions clearly and effectively to customers, consultants, and internal stakeholders, addressing their concerns and building strong technical relationships throughout the tender process, including comprehensive justification of technical choices and their impact on cost
- Contribute to the development and improvement of internal technical standards, tools, and best practices for VFD systems/STATCOM/Synchronous condenser systems integration and estimation, incorporating lessons learned from successful tender outcomes
Requirements:
- Bachelors degree from an accredited university or college
- Minimum 10 years of experience relevant to the role
- Experience in project engineering or application engineering or technical sales support for high-power electrical equipment, with a strong focus on VFD systems/STATCOM/Synchronous condenser
- In-depth knowledge of power electronics, power system dynamics, grid codes, and international standards relevant to VFD systems/STATCOM/Synchronous condenser applications
- Proven experience working on large-scale EPC tenders and a deep understanding of the extended Balance of Plant (BOP) scope in power plants, renewable energy, or heavy industrial facilities, with a practical understanding of how site constraints and procedures impact overall project cost
- Strong understanding of control systems, communication protocols and network architectures
- Demonstrated ability to read and interpret complex electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and P&IDs, and accurately extrapolate costing information
- Proven experience with cost estimation methodologies, quotation preparation, and supporting technical-commercial negotiations for complex electrical systems
- Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills, especially in developing innovative, cost-effective solutions for tender responses
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills
- Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 30% of time as required for site surveys, customer meetings, and internal meetings
- Masters degree
- P.Eng. or equivalent professional engineering license