Leon Otindo
Louisville,KY
Summary
Detail-oriented and motivated Mechanical Engineering graduate student with hands-on experience in the maintenance, operation, and automation of industrial systems and power plant equipment. Skilled in working with centrifugal pumps, compressors, piping, control valves, and hydraulic systems, applying preventive maintenance and root-cause analysis to improve reliability and uptime. Proficient in CAD design (SolidWorks and AutoCAD) and data-driven troubleshooting, with a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and teamwork within manufacturing and energy environments.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Mechanical Engineer- Automation
MAS Intimates Kenya EPZ, Ltd
09.2024 - 11.2024
- Performed process assessments to identify inefficiencies and recommend automation opportunities, focusing on improving equipment reliability, energy efficiency, and system uptime within production environments.
- Collaborated with production planners and maintenance technicians to streamline workflows, reduce downtime bottlenecks, and consistently achieve key performance targets.
- Interpreted and implemented process flow diagrams and standard operating procedures to ensure adherence to manufacturing protocols, minimize operational errors, and maintain high product quality standards.
- Applied fixture, layout, and tooling design principles while setting up and calibrating tapping machines, drilling machines, and CNC routers, ensuring precision, safety, and smooth integration within automated lines.
- Implemented 5S and lean manufacturing principles within the automation lab, maintaining organized workspaces, improving tool accessibility, and reinforcing safety and compliance culture.
- Utilized CAD software (SolidWorks and AutoCAD) to design and model precision components for CNC router machining, supporting the development and installation of automated and control-based systems.
Mechanical Engineering Intern
KenGen, Kiambere Hydroelectric Power Station
11.2023 - 04.2024
- Performed repair, preventive, and corrective maintenance on power plant auxiliaries and rotating equipment, including centrifugal pumps, compressors, and control valves, using root-cause analysis to restore reliability and minimize downtime.
- Operated and utilized workshop equipment such as lathes, drilling, and welding machines to fabricate and refurbish components for mechanical and piping systems.
- Assisted in the installation and commissioning of power plant machinery and process equipment, ensuring accurate alignment, proper calibration, and integration of piping systems and actuators.
- Monitored and evaluated maintenance programs and energy generation efficiency, analyzing equipment performance trends and comparing operational data to identify performance deviations and improve maintenance scheduling.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary maintenance teams to diagnose and resolve electrical and instrumentation issues affecting plant operations, reinforcing safe work practices and minimizing process interruptions.
Assistant Technician
National Youth Service
05.2021 - 08.2021
- Inspected, diagnosed, and repaired clutch motor assemblies and mechanical components of industrial sewing machines to restore optimal performance and reliability.
- Performed preventive and corrective maintenance by replacing, realigning, and lubricating moving parts, reducing unplanned equipment downtime and improving operational consistency.
- Identified defects, excessive wear, and dimensional deviations through precision measurement and visual inspection, ensuring adherence to mechanical tolerances and component specifications.
- Collaborated with management to recommend equipment upgrades and design modifications, contributing to improved machine productivity, operator safety, and long-term maintenance planning.
Mechanical Engineering Intern
KenGen, Masinga Hydroelectric Power Station
06.2019 - 08.2019
- Assisted in the operation and maintenance of turbine auxiliary systems, including high-pressure (HP) pumps, turbine oil circuits, and thrust-bearing coolers, gaining practical knowledge of rotating equipment and lubrication systems.
- Observed control room processes and SCADA-based monitoring systems, developing an understanding of industrial process control, equipment performance tracking, and alarm management.
- Observed and supported maintenance of turbine governor control systems, learning their role in speed regulation and process automation.
- Studied the general layout and functional integration of power plant systems, strengthening comprehension of mechanical, electrical, and control interdependencies within large-scale energy generation facilities.
Education
Master of Science - Mechanical Engineering
University of Louisvill
Louisville, KY05-2026
BSc. - Mechanical Engineering
University of Nairobi
Kenya09.2022
Skills
- Proficient in SolidWorks and AutoCAD for 3D modeling, assembly design, and technical drafting
- Strong understanding of mechanical systems, Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T), and component fit principles
- Skilled in drilling, machining, and fabrication techniques for precision part manufacturing
- Knowledge of developing PLC ladder logic for automation and process control systems
- Proficient in data collection, processing, and interpretation for performance and reliability analysis
- Demonstrated practical problem-solving skills through maintenance and system optimization projects
- Skilled in using Microsoft Office Suite for reporting, documentation, and data presentation
- Detail-oriented and methodical in approach to engineering documentation and task execution
- Effective communicator, capable of delivering clear technical presentations and written reports
- Collaborative team player, responsive to new challenges and adaptive to multidisciplinary environments
Accomplishments
- Certificate of Completion (2024) KenGen Internship
- PLC Level 1 (2022) Centurion Systems Engineering Training Center
- Autodesk AutoCAD (2019) Webbs Institute
Timeline
Mechanical Engineer- Automation
MAS Intimates Kenya EPZ, Ltd
09.2024 - 11.2024
Mechanical Engineering Intern
KenGen, Kiambere Hydroelectric Power Station
11.2023 - 04.2024
Assistant Technician
National Youth Service
05.2021 - 08.2021
Mechanical Engineering Intern
KenGen, Masinga Hydroelectric Power Station
06.2019 - 08.2019
Master of Science - Mechanical Engineering
University of Louisvill
BSc. - Mechanical Engineering
University of Nairobi