Job Summary
The Mechanical Design Principal serves as the senior technical authority for HVAC system design across multifamily and commercial projects. This role establishes engineering standards, oversees complex design challenges, ensures quality across all HVAC deliverables, and drives innovation in system design, energy efficiency, and design-build integration. As a strategic technical leader, the Principal mentors engineering teams, advances department capabilities, and represents the organization's engineering expertise with clients and project partners.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership & Standards
- Serve as the final technical authority for HVAC system design decisions across multiple projects.
- Develop, maintain, and improve HVAC design standards, engineering calculation templates, and Revit MEP workflows.
- Lead design innovation initiatives, including advanced energy modeling, alternative system selection, and prefabrication-focused design.
- Perform or oversee complex engineering analyses, including:
- HVAC load calculations
- Psychrometric analysis
- Duct and piping system optimization
- Hydronic system balancing
- Equipment selection
- Ensure compliance with all applicable mechanical, energy, and building codes, including CMC, IMC, ASHRAE, IECC, CBC, Title 24, and local jurisdiction requirements.
- Establish BIM coordination standards, clash detection protocols, and multidisciplinary design workflows.
Quality Assurance & Design Oversight
- Serve as the final reviewer for HVAC design packages before permit or client submission.
- Implement and maintain QA/QC processes throughout the design lifecycle.
- Conduct design audits to verify accuracy, code compliance, and constructability.
- Establish peer review standards and ensure engineering documents meet professional licensing requirements.
Mentorship & Team Development
- Mentor Design Managers and senior mechanical engineers.
- Lead technical training sessions covering HVAC systems, software, and code updates.
- Assist with recruiting, technical interviews, and onboarding of engineering staff.
- Partner with leadership to develop technical growth plans for the engineering team.
Strategic & Client-Facing Responsibilities
- Support business development by providing technical expertise for proposals and client presentations.
- Represent the engineering team during meetings with clients, architects, consultants, and project stakeholders.
- Identify value engineering opportunities that improve system performance while reducing project cost and schedule.
- Collaborate with fabrication, prefabrication, and construction teams to ensure design intent is successfully executed.
- Provide technical recommendations on department strategy, engineering tools, and future capabilities.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering required; Master's degree preferred.
- 12+ years of progressive HVAC design experience.
- Minimum of 5 years in a senior technical leadership role.
- Active California Professional Engineer (PE) license required; additional state licenses are a plus.
- Extensive experience designing HVAC systems for multifamily, mixed-use, or commercial projects.
- LEED AP, Certified Energy Manager (CEM), or similar sustainability credential preferred.
Technical Skills
- Expert proficiency with Revit MEP, AutoCAD, and HVAC design software such as HAP, Trane TRACE, EnergyPlus, or equivalent.
- Advanced knowledge of HVAC systems including:
- Central plant
- VRF
- PTAC
- Fan coil
- Hydronic systems
- DX systems
- ERV/HRV
- Hybrid systems
INDLV
Pay: $200,000.00 - $300,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Application Question(s):
- Do you have Multifamily construction design experience? If so, how many years?
- Do you have a Valid PE License for the state of California?
Work Location: In person
