Senior Mechanical Designer (Architecture and Engineering)

The Senior Mechanical Designer is responsible for the design, coordination, and preparation of construction documents for HVAC, plumbing, and related building systems for commercial, retail, industrial, multifamily, and institutional projects. Working under the direction of a Licensed Professional Engineer, this position applies advanced technical knowledge and practical design experience to develop accurate, code-compliant, and coordinated design solutions.

The Senior Mechanical Designer serves as a technical resource for project teams, supports project execution from concept through construction, and provides guidance to junior designers. This position regularly coordinates with engineers, project managers, architects, contractors, and other disciplines to ensure successful project delivery.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with a minimum of 5 years of building systems design experience; EIT certification preferred. - OR -
• Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Drafting, Design, or a related field with a minimum of 7 years of HVAC and/or plumbing design experience under the supervision of a Professional Engineer.

Preferred Qualifications

• EIT certification.
• Experience working in an Architecture and Engineering (A&E) consulting environment.
• Experience with commercial, retail, industrial, multifamily, healthcare, hospitality, or mixed-use projects.
• Strong BIM and Revit experience.

Essential Responsibilities

Technical Design & Engineering

• Prepare and coordinate HVAC, plumbing, and related building system designs for assigned projects.
• Develop plans, details, schedules, specifications, and construction documents with minimal supervision.
• Perform system layouts, equipment selection, and design calculations under the supervision of a Professional Engineer.
• Research and evaluate mechanical systems, equipment, and products for project applications.
• Identify and resolve design conflicts and coordination issues during project development.
• Review project documents for completeness, accuracy, and code compliance.
• Assist licensed engineers with engineering studies, reports, and technical analyses.

Project Coordination

• Participate in project kickoff meetings, design reviews, and client coordination meetings.
• Coordinate design work with architectural, structural, electrical, fire protection, and civil disciplines.
• Assist Project Managers and Engineers in maintaining project schedules, budgets, and deliverables.
• Support project planning and production efforts to meet client expectations and project deadlines.
• Coordinate utility requirements and external agency information as required.

Construction Administration Support

• Review and respond to RFIs, submittals, shop drawings, and contractor questions.
• Assist with resolving permit comments and design-related issues during the permitting process.
• Conduct field observations and site visits as required.
• Assist in resolving construction-related issues and providing technical support during construction.
• Participate in punch list reviews and project closeout activities.

Leadership & Mentorship

• Serve as a technical resource for Mechanical Designers and junior staff.
• Provide guidance, training, and mentorship to entry-level designers.
• Assist with the review and coordination of work prepared by junior team members.
• Promote quality standards, best practices, and continuous improvement within the department.

Professional Development

• Maintain knowledge of industry trends, building codes, engineering standards, and emerging technologies.
• Support departmental initiatives and process improvement efforts.
• Pursue professional development opportunities and EIT/PE progression when applicable.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Technical Skills

• Advanced knowledge of HVAC and plumbing building systems.
• Strong understanding of building, mechanical, plumbing, and energy codes.
• Proficiency in Revit and BIM modeling workflows.
• Experience with load calculations, equipment selection, and construction document preparation.
• Ability to review technical drawings, specifications, and submittals.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and PDF/document management software.

Professional Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work independently with limited oversight.

Communication Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong coordination and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with engineers, clients, contractors, and project stakeholders.
• Ability to present technical information clearly and professionally.