Senior Mechanical Engineer (HVAC & Plumbing) - Cedar Rapids, Iowa

MissionHires; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

MissionHires is seeking a Department Head for Mechanical Engineering based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Professional Engineering license, as well as 7-15 years of hands-on experience in mechanical systems design.

This full-time role involves leading a team of engineers, overseeing HVAC and plumbing designs, ensuring project quality, and supporting business development. If you're ready to step into a leadership position with growth opportunities, apply now.

Qualifications

• 7-15 years of hands-on experience in mechanical systems design and consulting.
• Strong background in HVAC systems.
• Experience mentoring junior team members.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers.
• Oversee mechanical design efforts including HVAC and plumbing systems.
• Participate in project meetings and support business development.

Skills

HVAC system load calculations

Mentoring junior engineers

Communication skills

Mechanical systems knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Professional Engineering (PE) license

Tools

Trane Trace 700

Microsoft Office

Revit

AutoCAD

Job description

Department Head - Mechanical Engineering (Consulting)

Are you a mechanically inclined design expert with a solid foundation in HVAC and plumbing systems, and ready to step into a leadership role? We are seeking a mid-level Mechanical Engineer with strong technical design skills and a desire to grow into departmental leadership. This full-time opportunity is with an established engineering consulting firm based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This position combines project oversight, mentorship, and strategic input, supporting a team focused on delivering HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems for commercial and institutional projects. If you're looking for a career move that blends leadership, growth, and technical challenge, this could be your next step.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers and designers.

• Oversee mechanical design efforts including HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems across all project phases.

• Act as the main mechanical point of contact across multiple concurrent projects.

• Ensure high-quality, code-compliant deliverables are completed on time and within budget.

• Participate in project meetings with clients and internal teams.

• Support business development and contribute to proposal writing.

• Review design documents, coordinate schedules, and guide team performance evaluations.

• Conduct construction administration tasks including shop drawing reviews and site visits.

• Prepare energy models, system evaluations, and technical specifications.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university (required).
• Professional Engineering (PE) license required. Licensure in another state is acceptable; however, the candidate must obtain Iowa PE licensure upon hire.
• 7-15 years of hands‑on experience in mechanical systems design and consulting.
• Strong background in HVAC system load calculations, layout, and equipment selection.
• Experience mentoring junior team members and managing engineering workflows.
• Familiarity with mechanical codes, building standards, and permitting.
• Proficiency with Trane Trace 700, Microsoft Office, and technical spec software.
• Working knowledge of Revit and AutoCAD preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Broad knowledge of HVAC and hydronic systems, air-side systems, heat pump and geothermal systems.
• Experience in cost estimating and technical report writing.
• Interest in staying current with evolving mechanical system technologies and codes.
• Leadership potential with a collaborative and team-oriented mindset.