Lead Mechanical Engineer

IPS-Integrated Project Services; Cary (NC); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

IPS, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer for our Cary, North Carolina office. You will lead HVAC system design for life sciences facilities and oversee a project team from feasibility through documentation.

Responsibilities include sizing, energy analysis, coordination with clients, budget management, and ensuring codes and standards. Travel 5–20% may be required; PE is preferred but not required.

Qualifications

• 10-12 years of engineering/design experience in the building design industry (HVAC systems and utility generation equipment).
• BS in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited college or university.
• Expertise with engineering design programs and CAD tools; knowledge of codes.

Responsibilities

• Direct the design of mechanical (HVAC) systems, including air distribution, piping, and central plants for life sciences facilities.
• Prepare engineering studies and schematic designs; analyze existing systems for renovation projects.
• Lead project teams, manage scope, budget, and staffing with the Project Manager.
• Perform calculations for duct sizing, pressure drops, and equipment sizing.
• Coordinate with clients, officials, and other design professionals; review invoices and documentation.

Skills

HVAC design

Project leadership

Engineering analysis

Code compliance

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

At IPS, we are global leaders in developing innovative solutions for the consulting, architecture, engineering, project controls, procurement, construction management, and CQV of technically complex facilities, primarily in the life sciences industry. We are looking for a talented Lead Mechanical Engineer to join our team at our office in Cary, North Carolina.

In this role, you will work independently on various projects as assigned by a Project Manager or Group Lead. You may also oversee the entire design process or assist as a technical expert on a specialized design; may work on several concurrent projects; is a recognized expert in one specialized area, such as mechanical, plumbing, electrical, or process.

Additional Responsibilities

• Direct the design of mechanical (HVAC) systems, including air distribution ductwork, hot water, chilled water, condenser water pumping and piping systems, steam, condensate piping, central plants, air handling units, dehumidification units, automatic control systems, and ancillary heat transfer systems for pharmaceutical, biotech, and life science facilities.
• Prepare engineering studies and schematic designs for new mechanical systems and analyze the operation of existing systems.
• Analyze existing HVAC and utility generation systems and equipment, and determine applicability for use in renovation projects.
• Perform Project Lead responsibilities for all phases of work, including feasibility reports, building assessments, concept and basis of design reports, and detailed design and documentation.
• Assess the requirements of a project, break a project into tasks, and work with a Project Manager to determine scope of work, budget, and staffing.
• Write the scope of work for design, based on preliminary review and meetings with the client.
• Work with code officials and other design professionals when an interpretation or exception to building codes is required.
• Assign and review the work of the project design team.
• Check progress of work, and produce markups to be incorporated in drawings.
• Communicate with clients and alert the Project Manager to changes of scope or additional services.
• Review contractor applications for payment.
• Coordinate all aspects of project document completion within the company and externally with clients, as well as other design professionals.
• Perform calculations using engineering formulas and skills for design such as duct sizing and pressure drop calculations, air balance calculations, and equipment sizing.
• Prepare or review construction budgets based on experience and scope of the project.
• Promote use of and participate in the development of company design and production standards.
• Assist in the education and development of design staff and act as a resource for design questions.
• Perform additional tasks or projects as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• 10-12 years of engineering/design experience in the building design industry (e.g., HVAC systems and utility generation equipment).
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited four‑year college or university.
• Thorough understanding of the construction process.
• Expertise in computer operation for engineering design programs and computer‑aided drafting (AutoCAD/Revit).
• Thorough knowledge of mechanical system design and applicable codes.
• Experience with software for performing load calculations and energy analysis.
• 4 years of experience overseeing engineers and designers on project teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional engineer (PE).

Physical Demands

• Must be able to stand, sit, and walk for prolonged periods.
• Must possess the ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl as required.
• Must be able to lift and move objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Must be able to climb ladders as necessary.

Work Environment

• Must be able to work in both indoor and outdoor environments, which may include exposure to varying working conditions.
• Must be able to adhere to strict cleanroom gowning protocol.

Travel

• This position will have 5-20% travel or as required by the assigned project.
• You may be assigned to a client site for an extended period.
• Overnight travel or staying in the city of the client’s location is possible, depending on the assignment.
• You will visit client sites and must adhere to stated safety rules.
• Must have access to reliable transportation.
• Must have the ability to travel and commute on a daily or routine basis.

Safety

• This position is a safety‑sensitive position.
• The employee is designated for field work and attends activities at client sites where they work in construction, process, packaging, manufacturing, research, or other non‑administrative areas.

All interviews are conducted either in person or virtually, with video required.

About Us

IPS, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a global leader in technical consulting, architecture, engineering, procurement, construction management, commissioning, qualification, and validation services for technically complex facilities. IPS applies design and delivery expertise, client‑side experience, and supplier‑side insight to every project.

Specialties

Process Architecture, Process Design, Engineering, Construction, Commissioning, Qualification, LEAN Project Delivery, Strategic Master Planning, Energy Conservation Management, Project Controls, Program/Project Management, Operations/Logistics Strategy and Planning, EPCMV, and Staffing Services.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment at IPS without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran, marital, or citizenship status, or any other status protected by law. IPS is proud to be an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer.