Mechanical Engineering Leader

Buffkin / Baker; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Benefits

Long-term growth opportunities

Job summary

Buffkin / Baker is seeking a Director of Mechanical Engineering in Cincinnati, Ohio. This leadership position requires expertise in industrial ventilation systems, overseeing a technical team responsible for design, analysis, and project execution.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, significant experience in HVAC systems, and strong leadership skills. Competitive compensation and benefits are included.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering is required.
• Experience in industrial ventilation and HVAC systems design is essential.
• Proven leadership or department management experience is needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Mechanical/Industrial Ventilation department.
• Own the design and analysis of industrial ventilation and HVAC systems.
• Mentor and develop talent across the team.

Skills

Leadership

Industrial Ventilation Design

HVAC Systems Knowledge

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Design and Simulation Software

Job description

About Buffkin/Baker Buffkin/Baker is a premier executive search firm recognized for placing transformative leaders across high-growth industries. We partner with clients to identify and recruit senior talent who drive organizational performance and long-term value.

Position Overview

Our client, a full-service engineering firm serving industrial and manufacturing sectors, is seeking a Director of Mechanical Engineering with deep expertise in industrial ventilation systems. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a technically strong engineer ready to own both the strategic and hands-on dimensions of a specialized, high-performing department.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Mechanical/Industrial Ventilation department, including engineers, designers, and support staff
• Own the design and analysis of industrial ventilation, dust collection, HVAC, and process exhaust systems
• Serve as the technical authority on mechanical engineering deliverables, ensuring quality and consistency
• Partner with project managers and discipline leads to execute complex, multi-discipline projects
• Mentor and develop talent across the team, driving both technical and professional growth
• Own department standards, tools, and best practices — and continuously raise the bar
• Contribute to client relationships and business development, including proposals and estimating
• Ensure adherence to safety, regulatory, and environmental compliance standards

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Meaningful experience in industrial ventilation and HVAC systems design
• Demonstrated leadership or department management experience
• Strong working knowledge of industrial ventilation standards — ACGIH, NFPA, ASHRAE
• Background in industrial project environments — chemical, manufacturing, pulp & paper, or similar
• Proficiency in relevant design and simulation software
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills

Why This Role

• Step into a visible leadership seat with real influence over department direction and growth
• Work on technically complex, specialized projects with an established and respected team
• Competitive compensation, benefits, and long-term upside