Principal Mechanical Engineer (MEP)

Lvi-Associates; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 180,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee ownership

Performance bonuses

PTO & holidays

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Job summary

LVI Associates in Columbus, Ohio seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer (MEP) to lead major HVAC and building systems projects, providing technical direction and mentorship to engineering teams.

You will guide design strategies, oversee QA/QC, and collaborate with estimating, operations, construction, and clients on complex facilities from healthcare to institutional settings. This role offers ownership and growth in an employee-owned firm with strong bonus and benefits.

Qualifications

• Experience designing HVAC and mechanical systems for large facilities.
• Ability to lead projects and mentor teams.
• Knowledge of mechanical building systems and design standards.
• Strong communication with clients, contractors, and leadership.
• Proficiency with CAD/BIM and MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual design and engineering strategy for HVAC/mechanical systems.
• Act as principal mechanical engineering resource for teams and clients.
• Provide technical oversight across multiple projects.
• Establish engineering standards, best practices, QC procedures.
• Collaborate with estimating, operations, construction, and project management during planning.
• Develop preliminary designs, redline layouts, and solutions for pursuits.
• Perform advanced analyses: load calculations, sizing, airflow, friction.

Skills

HVAC design

Mechanical systems

Project leadership

Mentoring teams

Client communication

CAD/BIM

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

Principal Mechanical Engineer (MEP) (PR/618009) Columbus, Ohio

Salary: USD180000 - USD210000 per year

Principal Mechanical Engineer

Lead High-Impact Projects. Influence Design Strategy. Mentor the Next Generation of Engineers.

An established, employee-owned design build firm is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to provide technical leadership, guide conceptual design efforts, and support the successful delivery of complex building systems projects.

What You'll Do

• Lead conceptual design and engineering strategy for complex HVAC and mechanical systems projects
• Serve as the principal mechanical engineering resource for project teams, clients, and internal stakeholders
• Provide technical oversight and guidance to engineers across multiple projects
• Establish and uphold engineering standards, best practices, and quality-control procedures
• Collaborate with estimating, operations, construction, and project management teams during project planning and execution
• Develop preliminary design concepts, redline layouts, and technical solutions for project pursuits and budgeting efforts
• Perform advanced engineering analyses including:
  • Heating and cooling load calculations
  • Equipment selection and sizing
  • Airflow and hydronic system design
  • Friction loss and pressure drop calculations
• Participate in client meetings and present technical recommendations and design concepts
• Conduct site visits, construction reviews, and field investigations to ensure design intent is achieved
• Provide engineering support during construction and assist with resolving complex design and installation challenges

What We're Looking For

• Extensive experience designing complex HVAC and mechanical systems for commercial, healthcare, mission-critical, industrial, higher education, laboratory, or large institutional facilities
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects, influence technical decisions, and mentor engineering teams
• Expert knowledge of mechanical building systems and industry design standards
• Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to engage effectively with clients, contractors, and executive leadership
• Proficiency with engineering design software, CAD/BIM platforms, and Microsoft Office tools
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field required
• Master's degree preferred
• Professional Engineer (PE) license strongly preferred

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Join a 100% employee-owned organization where your contributions directly impact company success
• Work on highly visible, technically challenging projects that push engineering innovation
• Influence design standards, project delivery strategies, and organizational growth
• Collaborate with industry-leading professionals in a highly respected engineering environment
• Enjoy significant opportunities for mentorship, leadership development, and career advancement
• Competitive compensation package with annual performance-based bonuses
• Employee ownership program
• Generous 401(k) plan with strong company match and immediate vesting
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid parental leave
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Professional development, training, and continuing education support
• Company-paid professional memberships and licensing assistance
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
• Life and disability insurance coverage

Ideal Candidate

This role is a strong fit for a Senior Mechanical Engineer, Mechanical Discipline Lead, Associate Principal, Engineering Manager, Technical Director, or Principal Engineer seeking an opportunity to lead major projects, influence technical direction, mentor high‑performing teams, and participate in the long‑term success of an employee‑owned organization.