Mechanical Utilities Engineer - Expansion & Commissioning

Vulcan Elements; Benson (NC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Vulcan Elements is hiring a Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, installation, startup, and handover of critical mechanical utility systems in an industrial manufacturing expansion. Initial work will occur in Durham, NC with a planned move to Benson, NC upon facility completion.

The role emphasizes CAD-driven design, piping and equipment layouts, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure safety, reliability, and long-term asset stewardship in a high‑tech, defense‑oriented environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Engineering Technology.
• 3+ years of experience in mechanical engineering within an industrial, manufacturing, or heavy-industry environment.
• Strong understanding of mechanical utility systems, piping design, fluid systems, and industrial equipment.
• Experience with industrial utilities such as chilled water, cooling water, compressed air, or industrial gases.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (AutoCAD, Inventor, SolidWorks) and project management software.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, schematics, and technical specifications.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in active industrial environments and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, specification, and installation of mechanical utility systems.
• Work with EPC contractors on layouts, P&IDs, equipment specs, and install packages.
• Manage installation activities with EPC, GC, contractors, OEMs, and maintenance teams.
• Oversee commissioning, testing, troubleshooting, and performance validation.
• Support production equipment installation with proper utility integration.
• Conduct field inspections for quality, safety, and standards compliance.
• Develop project scopes, schedules, budgets, and technical docs.
• Support procurement, cost tracking, and reporting.
• Lead continuous improvement for reliability and energy efficiency.
• Ensure OSHA and safety standards are followed throughout project phases.
• Communicate status, risks, and milestones to leadership and teams.
• Provide startup support and training during handover to ops.

Skills

Strong communication

Organization

Problem-solving

Active industrial environments

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Engineering Technology

Tools

AutoCAD

Inventor

SolidWorks

Job description

Vulcan Elements is hiring a Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, installation, startup, and handover of critical mechanical utility systems in an industrial manufacturing expansion. Initial work will occur in Durham, NC with a planned move to Benson, NC upon facility completion.

The role emphasizes CAD-driven design, piping and equipment layouts, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure safety, reliability, and long-term asset stewardship in a high‑tech, defense‑oriented environment.