Aviation Mechanical Engineering Lead – Associate Principal

Buro Happold; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 151,000 - 212,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous benefits package

Annual discretionary bonus

Generous PTO 5 weeks + holidays

401k with company match

License reimbursements

Job summary

Buro Happold is seeking an Associate Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead complex aviation projects in Washington, DC, blending technical oversight with strong client management.

The role demands extensive experience in mechanical design, aviation sector expertise, and leadership across multidisciplinary teams, with a focus on delivering high-quality, compliant engineering solutions.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of Mechanical Engineering design in building services/construction.
• 10+ years of aviation experience.
• Senior leadership within MEP for an architectural engineering consultancy.
• Ability to manage project scope, budgets, schedules, and resources.
• Strong client relationship management and business development skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for project teams, driving successful outcomes.
• Lead design and technical specifications of mechanical systems.
• Manage project scope, budgets, schedules, resources, and delivery.
• Develop and maintain client relationships for business development.
• Guide graduates and junior engineers in their development.
• Communicate with clients, architects, and project partners.
• Oversee multiple projects ensuring quality engineering solutions.

Skills

12+ years experience

Aviation experience

Senior leadership

FAA knowledge

Client relationship mgmt

Business development

Revit

Communication

Education

BS/MS Mechanical Engineering or related

Professional Engineer (P.E.) preferred

LEED AP preferred

Tools

Revit

Computational analysis tools

Job description

Buro Happold is seeking an Associate Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead complex aviation projects in Washington, DC, blending technical oversight with strong client management.

The role demands extensive experience in mechanical design, aviation sector expertise, and leadership across multidisciplinary teams, with a focus on delivering high-quality, compliant engineering solutions.