The posting
Our client is seeking an experienced Mechanical Project Engineer to design HVAC systems for diverse building projects in their Roanoke, VA office.
ABOUT THE FIRM
Our client is an established multidisciplinary engineering firm with a strong presence in the Roanoke region. Their portfolio spans educational facilities, civic buildings, arts and cultural venues, and commercial developments. They pride themselves on delivering high-quality mechanical systems design while fostering a collaborative team environment where experienced engineers mentor emerging talent.
THE OPPORTUNITY
This role offers the chance to lead HVAC design across a diverse mix of meaningful projects—from schools and government buildings to performing arts centers and commercial developments. You'll work closely with architects, clients, and internal teams while mentoring junior engineers and contributing to the growth of the mechanical engineering practice.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
Design & Engineering:
- Lead HVAC system design for educational, civic, arts, and commercial building projects
- Perform design load calculations and energy modeling to optimize system performance
- Develop mechanical system designs from concept through construction documentation
- Apply knowledge of building codes, energy standards, and industry best practices
- Select equipment, design ductwork and piping systems, and coordinate with other disciplines
- Prepare specifications and technical documentation for mechanical systems
Project Management:
- Manage project timelines and budgets to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery
- Coordinate with project teams, architects, and other engineering disciplines
- Review contractor submittals and respond to RFIs during construction
- Conduct site visits to observe installation and verify conformance with design intent
Communication & Collaboration:
- Communicate effectively with clients, architects, contractors, and team members
- Present design concepts and recommendations clearly to stakeholders
- Participate in design meetings and coordinate mechanical system integration with building architecture
- Work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment
Mentorship & Leadership:
- Mentor junior staff members in design principles, calculations, and technical skills
- Provide guidance and quality control review of work produced by less experienced engineers
- Support the professional development of emerging engineers
- Contribute to building the firm's mechanical engineering capabilities
WHAT YOU BRING
Required:
- Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the Commonwealth of Virginia (mechanical engineering)
- 7-10 years of professional mechanical engineering experience
- Strong HVAC system design background across multiple building types
- Proficiency in design load calculation software (Trane Trace or similar)
- Experience with energy modeling programs (ComCheck, etc.)
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
- Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
- Ability to work effectively in team-based, collaborative environment
- Demonstrated ability to manage project schedules and budgets
- Willingness and ability to mentor junior staff
Preferred:
- Proficiency in Revit MEP for 3D modeling and BIM coordination
- Experience with educational facility design (K-12, higher education)
- Familiarity with LEED or other sustainable design certifications
- Experience with civic and cultural building types (performing arts centers, government buildings, etc.)
- Knowledge of Virginia building codes and energy standards
WHAT THEY OFFER
Location & Stability:
- Downtown Roanoke, VA office location
- Established firm with diverse project pipeline
- Regional presence with long-standing client relationships
Professional Environment:
- Collaborative, team-oriented culture
- Opportunity to work on meaningful civic, educational, and cultural projects
- Diverse project types (not repetitive work)
- Mentorship responsibilities that contribute to your leadership development
- Multidisciplinary coordination experience
Career Development:
- Growth potential within mechanical engineering practice
- Opportunity to shape and mentor the next generation of engineers
- Increasing project leadership responsibilities
IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE
You're a licensed mechanical engineer with substantial HVAC design experience who's ready to take on project leadership and mentorship responsibilities. You're comfortable managing projects from concept through construction, coordinating with architects and other disciplines, and communicating technical concepts to clients. You enjoy the variety of working on schools, civic buildings, arts facilities, and commercial projects rather than specializing in a single building type. You're committed to quality design, understand the importance of budget and schedule, and take pride in developing junior engineers.
