Mechanical Engineering Intern/Co-op Student

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 Mechanical Engineering Intern/Co-op Student for an
8 to 16 month term, starting early May 2026.

Under the supervision of a Mechanical Engineer, the Co-op student will take on challenging opportunities in an environment where teamwork and a willingness to learn are highly valued. You will have the opportunity to develop and apply your knowledge of engineering principles and gain valuable hands-on experience by solving engineering and design problems for our generating assets. The role will be primarily supporting the Mechanical Engineer with work on our gas turbine fleet, combined with occasional field work at our Generating sites.

This is a full-time, temporary position based at our Head Office in downtown Calgary, AB, with up to 15% travel to field-based sites.

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

A DAY IN THE LIFE

• Assist the Mechanical Engineer in engineering activities relating to supporting mechanical projects, maintenance requests and planned outages.
• Participate in the investigation, troubleshooting and resolution of issues at the generating facilities
• Collaborate on projects with Operations teams to support repair requests and plant improvements.
• Review asset information and complete data analysis to identify maintenance work to increase up time on equipment.
• Participate in developing engineering work scopes for effective repairs and upgrades as required for outage scopes.
• Participate in outage planning and defining the scope of inspections for gas turbines and balance of plant equipment during outages.
• Gather field measurements and data to assist engineers
• Potentially participate in field work execution to support plant outages.
• Develop knowledge of process plant operation and equipment including gas turbines.
• Focus on safety, cost reduction and reliability improvements

ABOUT YOU

• Mechanical Engineering student at a recognized post-secondary institution.  Is committed to an eight-month (May – Dec 2026), or a twelve-month (May 2026 – Apr 2027), or a sixteen-month (May 2026 – August 2027) work term.  Preference will be given to students who are in their 3rd or 4th year of studies and intend to resume full-time studies upon completion of this work term.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with a keen eye on problem solving, technical report preparation and presentations.
• Self-starter who can work independently, is coachable, and is motivated to learn and develop.
• Critical thinker with strong analytical skills.
• Team player with strong interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to take ownership of assigned work.
• Seeks feedback from other team members and clients to improve quality of deliverables; committed to building on existing and developing new skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Good organizational skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and cloud-based software.
• Valid Class 5 driver’s license or equivalent out of province license.
• Comfortable with occasional travel to remote sites and working in the field to support plant outages.
• Previous engineering experience, field experience in an operating facility or experience supporting outages is considered an asset but not a pre-requisite.
• An interest in the power generation industry would be an asset.

THE PERKS

• Opportunity to work for a leading Energy Provider
• Hands-on experience and industry exposure
• Flexible work arrangements (for specific roles)
• Competitive market rates
• Opportunity to develop your skills in an environment that cultivates psychological safety
• Access to mentorship and training and development opportunities

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.