Associate Principal/Senior Mechanical Design Engineer
- Compensation
- $120K–$150K / yr
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Work setup
- Hybrid
- Seniority
- Principal
- Employment
- Not specified
- Experience
- 10+ years
- Category
- Engineering design
- Posted
Skills
Must have
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
- At least 10 years of experience in MEP mechanical design and consulting.
- Demonstrated team-leadership and staff-management experience.
- Project management experience within the MEP industry.
- Strong client-service, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
- Comprehensive understanding of applicable building codes and HVAC design systems.
Nice to have
- Professional Engineer license or equivalent depth of experience.
- LEED accreditation.
- Working knowledge of IES-VE.
- A relationship-driven leadership style and the ability to support both technical delivery and practice growth.
Full description
Overview
A nationally recognized building-systems engineering consultancy is seeking an Associate Principal/Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to help lead its Chicago practice. The organization delivers sophisticated, high-performance MEP solutions for complex buildings across healthcare, education, commercial, hospitality, transportation, and other markets.
This is an opportunity for an established mechanical engineering leader to shape a local team, deepen client relationships, and take ownership of technically challenging work from early planning through construction.
Position Description
The Associate Principal/Senior Mechanical Design Engineer will serve as a discipline leader across multiple MEP projects. This person will blend advanced HVAC design expertise with team leadership, business development, project delivery, construction-phase support, and exceptional client service.
Key Responsibilities:
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Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing local MEP design team.
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Develop and maintain trusted relationships with architects, owners, and other local clients.
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Lead HVAC system selection, engineering, design, and interdisciplinary coordination.
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Prepare and oversee HVAC drawings, analyses, specifications, calculations, and other technical deliverables.
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Direct and support HVAC design staff while maintaining high standards for quality, accountability, and collaboration.
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Provide construction administration and conduct site observations for assigned projects.
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Communicate clearly with clients and project partners while providing responsive service to internal and external teams.
Requirements:
-
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
-
At least 10 years of experience in MEP mechanical design and consulting.
-
Demonstrated team-leadership and staff-management experience.
-
Project management experience within the MEP industry.
-
Strong client-service, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
-
Comprehensive understanding of applicable building codes and HVAC design systems.
Desired Experience & Skills:
-
Professional Engineer license or equivalent depth of experience.