Professional Staff

Ralph Nelson, P.E.

Senior Engineering Consultant

“I am thrilled to return to Kleinschmidt, where I began my career, and work with such an experienced, innovative team dedicated to serving the hydropower industry. I look forward to contributing my skills and expertise to help the team achieve its goals”


Ralph, a seasoned civil/structural hydraulic engineer, brings over four decades of diverse experience to his new role. His expertise spans planning, licensing, permitting support, and the design and construction of hydroelectric and industrial projects. As a former Project Manager, Project Engineer, and Engineer, he has led feasibility and environmental studies, hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, and provided critical support for licensing and permitting activities. His design experience includes work with steel, wood, and concrete, and he has conducted structural analyses for powerhouses, dams, intake structures, and related facilities. Ralph has designed several fish passage structures, including nature-like fishways, Denil, vertical slots, and eel ramps. 

Ralph holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Northeastern University. He is an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Maine Section. Ralph is also a Registered Professional Engineer in Maine.