Mechanical Engineer – HVAC & Plumbing Design

About the role

Woolpert is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to join its Mechanical Engineering team in Chicago. The role leads HVAC and plumbing design projects for complex buildings, ensuring compliance with client and industry standards while mentoring junior staff.

Key responsibilities

• Design and support HVAC and mechanical systems, including air‑cooled and liquid‑cooled cooling, chilled water plants, cooling towers, and CRAC/CRAH units.
• Perform CFD modeling (e.g., 6Sigma) to analyze airflow distribution, thermal performance, and cooling effectiveness.
• Conduct cooling load calculations, equipment sizing, and airflow analysis for high‑density and critical infrastructure environments.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to evaluate system alternatives, redundancy strategies, and present solutions to clients.
• Execute technical and QA/QC reviews to deliver code‑compliant, high‑quality engineering deliverables.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 7+ years of experience.
• Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
• Experience designing HVAC systems for commercial, mixed‑use, healthcare, aviation, hospitality, or high‑rise projects.
• Familiarity with sustainable design standards such as LEED.

Required skills

• CFD modeling software (e.g., 6Sigma).
• Autodesk Revit 3‑D modeling.
• HVAC system design and cooling load calculations.
• QA/QC coordination of design documents.
• Proficiency with MS Teams, OneDrive/SharePoint, and MS Office.

What we offer

• Flexible “Freedom to Work” program allowing remote or hybrid schedules.
• Opportunity to become an owner through the Principal program.
• Competitive salary range $101,200–$126,500 USD per year.
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Paid time off, retirement plan, fitness reimbursement, pet insurance, and technology stipend.