Senior Mechanical Engineer

Epinc; Brookings (SD); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and development of HVAC and plumbing systems for various projects. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience and must possess a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a PE license. This role involves mentoring junior staff, managing complex projects, and ensuring compliance with codes and standards. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential for building client relationships.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in mechanical engineering design, preferably in an MEP consulting or A/E firm.
• Ability to break down complex mechanical systems into understandable components.
• Strong communication skills for client and team interactions.
• Located within 60 miles of Brookings, SD.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design efforts for HVAC and plumbing systems.
• Prepare detailed mechanical drawings and specifications.
• Mentor junior engineers and designers.
• Provide project leadership, mentorship, and QA reviews.
• Support client relations and construction administration activities.

Skills

Leadership

HVAC design

Plumbing systems knowledge

Project management

Team mentorship

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering

Professional Engineer (PE) license

Job description

Description

The Senior Mechanical Engineer leads the design, development, and delivery of high-quality HVAC and plumbing systems for a wide range of building and facility projects. This role requires advanced technical knowledge, leadership, and collaboration to guide project teams and ensure all work meets applicable codes, standards, and project objectives.

The Senior Mechanical Engineer must demonstrate the ability to break down complex mechanical systems into clear, buildable solutions, apply technical expertise with confidence, and support innovation in design and delivery. Success in this role depends on being reliable and approachable, maintaining strong self-awareness, and fostering a collaborative environment that encourages learning, mentorship, and professional growth. This position also requires building trusted relationships with clients and project partners while ensuring that project documentation and construction administration efforts are accurate, timely, and code-compliant.

Design & Technical Leadership

• Lead mechanical design efforts for projects of varying size and complexity, with a focus on HVAC and plumbing systems.
• Develop comprehensive, code-compliant mechanical system designs that meet project performance, constructability, and energy efficiency goals.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed mechanical drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
• Coordinate mechanical system design with architectural, structural, electrical, and other disciplines to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Conduct facility assessments, feasibility studies, and site verifications to support design decisions.
• Provide technical direction, review, and quality assurance for mechanical design work prepared by others.
• Break down complex systems into clear, understandable components to support team learning and effective execution.

Project Management & Client Coordination

• Plan, organize, and manage mechanical engineering tasks throughout all phases of a project from concept through construction.
• Collaborate with owners, architects, and other engineering disciplines to ensure coordinated, constructible designs.
• Lead project meetings, communicate design intent clearly, and address client and contractor inquiries.
• Prepare schematic design reports, design narratives, and addenda documentation.
• Offer responsive construction administration services including RFI and submittal reviews.
• Maintain strong client relationships through reliability, responsiveness, and technical excellence.
• Manage multiple projects and competing priorities effectively while meeting deadlines.

Team Development & Mentorship

• Mentor and coach junior engineers and designers, providing technical and professional development guidance.
• Break down complex concepts to help others understand design intent and system interactions.
• Perform routine project quality reviews and use these opportunities to train staff.
• Share expertise in mechanical technologies, energy codes, and emerging design practices.
• Promote a culture of learning and teamwork.

Document Production & Tools

• Ensure mechanical construction documents are complete, accurate, and well-coordinated, in compliance with EP drafting standards and project requirements.
• Oversee the use of design and analysis tools to support high-quality HVAC and plumbing system documentation.
• Maintain organized digital files and ensure proper recordkeeping, version control, and documentation standards are followed.
• Coordinate effectively with internal teams and external partners to support integrated document delivery.
• Review design documents for accuracy, consistency, and constructability using established quality control processes.
• Set a standard for responsive, reliable construction administration support throughout the project lifecycle.

Professional Responsibility & Team Engagement

• Lead by example through innovation, accountability, and professionalism.
• Maintain approachability and open communication within the team and with clients.
• Demonstrate self-awareness in interactions, feedback, and decision-making.
• Manage workload proactively and demonstrate accountability for quality and performance.
• Participate actively in meetings, discussions, and collaborative design reviews.
• Balance project responsibilities with continued professional development and well-being.

Business Development & Client Engagement

• Collaborate with Client Managers to pursue project opportunities with existing clients and strengthen ongoing relationships.
• Partner with the Business Development team to support pursuit of new clients, markets, and industries aligned with EP’s strategic objectives.
• Represent EP at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to increase visibility and strengthen market presence.
• Support the development of trusted client relationships through professionalism, responsiveness, and technical credibility.

Requirements

POSITION REQUIREMENTS (MINIMUM)

• Authorization to work in the US. No visa sponsorship available.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from an ABET accredited program.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
• Minimum of 10+ years of experience in mechanical engineering design, preferably within an MEP consulting or A/E firm.
• Located in or within 60 miles of Brookings, South Dakota.