Mechanical (HVAC) Design Engineer

NextPlay Jobs; Arlington Heights (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A mechanical contracting firm in the Chicagoland area is looking for a Mechanical (HVAC) Design Engineer. The role involves designing HVAC systems for commercial projects, performing load calculations, and coordinating with project teams. Ideal candidates will have 3+ years of experience in HVAC/MEP design, proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD, and a degree in Mechanical Engineering. This is an on-site position with a competitive salary ranging from $90,000 to $110,000.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of HVAC/MEP design experience, ideally more.
• Experience in a consulting/design office, design-build environment preferred.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC systems, equipment selection, and pressure drop.

Responsibilities

• Design HVAC systems for commercial projects in a design-build environment.
• Perform heating/cooling load calculations and system sizing.
• Coordinate with architects and project teams for system integration.

Skills

HVAC systems design

Revit (BIM)

AutoCAD

Heating/cooling load calculations

Duct/pipe sizing

Clear communication

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

HAP

TRACE 700

Job description

Mechanical (HVAC) Design Engineer - Building Systems (MEP / Design-Build)

Location: Chicagoland area

Work setting: On-site (in-office)

Compensation: $90,000–$110,000

The Opportunity

Our client is a long-established mechanical contractor with a strong design-build practice. They’re hiring a Mechanical (HVAC) Design Engineer to join a small, collaborative engineering group and support commercial and high-rise residential projects from design through installation support.

This is a great fit for someone coming from an MEP consulting/design office environment who enjoys practical, buildable designs and close collaboration with construction teams.

What You’ll Do

• Design HVAC systems for commercial and/or high-rise residential projects (design-build environment)
• Perform heating/cooling load calculations and system sizing
• Complete duct/pipe sizing and pressure drop calculations
• Coordinate with architects, structural partners, and internal project teams for system integration
• Review technical submittals and support engineering during construction

Must-Haves

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related)
• 3+ years HVAC/MEP design experience (3 is the minimum; 5+ ideal)
• Experience working in a consulting/design office environment (MEP/building systems); design-build exposure is a plus
• Proficiency with Revit (BIM) and AutoCAD
• Experience with load-calculation / HVAC design tools (ex: HAP, TRACE 700, similar)
• Strong knowledge of HVAC systems design, including equipment selection, duct/pipe layout, and pressure drop
• Familiarity with applicable codes/standards (ASHRAE, SMACNA, NFPA, local codes)
• Able to manage multiple priorities, communicate clearly, and work cross-functionally

Preferred (Nice to Have)

• EIT/FE or PE (or on track)
• Energy modeling / sustainability exposure (LEED experience a plus)