Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - HVAC and Plumbing Design (PE License Required)

J T; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) retirement plan

Healthcare insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

BKV Group in Chicago, IL seeks a Senior Mechanical Engineer with 8+ years of HVAC and plumbing design experience for leading-edge commercial projects. The role requires strong leadership and the ability to interface with clients during presentations and workshops.

Responsibilities include directing HVAC/plumbing calculations, coordinating with multi-disciplinary teams, and mentoring staff while upholding firm design standards and QA/QC processes.

Qualifications

• Active PE license in Mechanical Engineering.
• 8+ years of HVAC and plumbing design experience on commercial projects.
• Advanced proficiency in Autodesk Revit and Office Suite.
• Hands-on energy/load calculations using TRACE or similar.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design for commercial and mixed-use projects.
• Perform HVAC and plumbing calculations, models, drawings, and specs.
• Coordinate with architecture, structural, electrical, and PM teams.

Skills

PE license

HVAC design

Leadership

Client communication

Tools

Revit

Trane TRACE

Job description

Salary Range: $150,000 – $170,000 / year (commensurate with experience)

About the Role

Seeking an accomplished and collaborative Senior Mechanical Engineer with 8+ years of HVAC and plumbing design experience to join the BKV Group team in Chicago, IL.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering design, systems selections, and basis-of-design documentation for leading-edge commercial and mixed-use projects.
• Direct and execute comprehensive HVAC and plumbing calculations, models, drawings, and specifications.
• Coordinate mechanical and plumbing engineering designs seamlessly with architecture, structural, electrical, and project management disciplines.
• Represent the Mechanical discipline at client presentations, stakeholder meetings, and design workshops.
• Support the construction administration phase by reviewing contractor submittals, responding to RFIs, and addressing site inquiries.
• Provide technical mentorship, coaching, and career guidance to mechanical engineers and designers.
• Maintain, refine, and implement firm-wide mechanical and plumbing design standards in collaboration with senior leadership.
• Partner with the Mechanical Director to conduct rigorous quality control and quality assurance (QA/QC) reviews on all project deliverables.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Licensure: Active Professional Engineer (PE) license in Mechanical Engineering.
• Experience: Minimum of 8 years of focused mechanical (HVAC) and plumbing design experience, with a strong background in commercial building projects.
• Software Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in Autodesk Revit and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Hands-on experience with Trane TRACE (or comparable building energy and load calculation software).
• Codes & Standards: Comprehensive knowledge of ASHRAE standards, International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Plumbing Code (IPC), energy codes (IECC), and local municipal building codes.
• Communication & Leadership: Strong presentation and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead technical discussions, resolve design challenges collaboratively, and interface directly with clients.

Benefits & Compensation

• Competitive salary with flexible work schedules
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options
• Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution options
• Professional development, licensure renewal support, and continuing education programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law.