Senior Project Manager / Mechanical Engineer

CLEMU Clemson University; Seneca (SC); On-site; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Clemson University in Seneca, SC seeks a Mechanical Project Manager to oversee the planning, design, and execution of mechanical systems across construction and renovation projects. You will coordinate with design professionals, contractors, and university teams to deliver on time, within budget, and to code standards.

The role emphasizes HVAC, plumbing, and building controls, with responsibilities spanning budgeting, scheduling, risk management, and commissioning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and PM experience.
• PE license or active pursuit of license.
• Experience with CM-R or Design-Build delivery methods.
• Mechanical systems knowledge within campus infrastructure.

Responsibilities

• Oversee mechanical project scope, design, and delivery coordination.
• Manage budgets, schedules, and change control for multiple projects.
• Coordinate with university stakeholders, design professionals, and contractors.
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards and best practices.
• Lead inspections, testing, startup, and commissioning activities.

Skills

Project management

Mechanical systems

HVAC systems

Coordination

Cross-functional collaboration

Code compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Professional Engineer (PE) license

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Construction Manager at Risk (CM-R)

Design-Build (D-B)

Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Mechanical Project Manager oversees the planning, design, and execution of new construction and renovation projects with a primary focus on mechanical systems, including HVAC, plumbing, and building controls, while supporting other assigned projects as needed. This role ensures projects comply with University, State, and Federal standards, applicable codes and regulations, and industry best practices, delivering high‑quality outcomes on schedule and within budget. The Mechanical Project Manager collaborates closely with cross‑functional teams, including design professionals, contractors, Utilities and Maintenance teams, and University stakeholders, to successfully achieve project objectives. This position requires expertise in managing complex mechanical systems integration within campus infrastructure and experience with alternative delivery procurement methods, such as Construction Manager at Risk (CM‑R) and Design‑Build (D‑B). Projects assigned may range in value from $10K to $75M. Performs other duties as assigned.

JOB DUTIES:

5% Training & Mentorship:

• Participates in project management training, leadership development programs, and workshops to strengthen coordination, communication, and delivery skills.
• Provides guidance and support to staff and fellow project managers throughout all phases of design, construction, and closeout, with emphasis on mechanical scope coordination and best practices.
• Actively engages in industry training, professional organizations, and continuing education to stay current on advancements in mechanical systems, project delivery methods, and applicable codes and standards.
• Contributes to continuous improvement initiatives by sharing lessons learned, improving processes, and supporting innovations that enhance the efficiency, quality, and consistency of project delivery.

25% Coordination and Consultation:

• Serves as the primary liaison for mechanical project scope between University leadership, faculty, facilities and maintenance staff, and external consultants on assigned projects.
• Leads and facilitates project coordination and progress meetings, preparing clear status updates and technical reports to ensure transparent and effective communication among stakeholders.
• Coordinates with Facilities Maintenance, Utilities, Energy Management, IT, and other campus departments to integrate mechanical systems with building infrastructure and operational requirements.
• Engages with utility providers and service partners to support mechanical utility connections, metering requirements, and energy efficiency initiatives as applicable.
• Reviews mechanical designs for constructability, code compliance, operational efficiency, and long‑term maintainability.
• Ensures HVAC, plumbing, building automation, life‑safety interfaces, and related mechanical systems meet project specifications, performance criteria, and institutional standards.
• Oversees inspections, testing, startup, and commissioning of mechanical systems to verify proper installation, functionality, and operational readiness.
• Promotes and supports the implementation of energy‑efficient and sustainable solutions, including high‑efficiency HVAC systems, building automation optimization, heat recovery, and other energy conservation measures where appropriate.

25% Financial and Schedule Control:

• The Project Manager is responsible for maintaining comprehensive financial and schedule control for all assigned projects, ensuring work is delivered on time and within approved budgets. This role provides regular communication to customers, University leadership, and key stakeholders regarding project schedules, milestones, risks, and overall progress.
• The Project Manager develops, manages, and monitors detailed project budgets, ensuring appropriate allocation of funds while delivering high‑quality, functional outcomes with a emphasis on mechanical systems. This includes identifying and evaluating potential budget impacts related to mechanical scope coordination, long‑lead equipment procurement, system integration, and unforeseen site conditions, and recommending corrective actions as needed. The role may manage projects with multiple funding sources and incorporates contingency planning to mitigate financial and schedule risk.
• This position coordinates and directs internal and external project teams—including design professionals, mechanical engineers, contractors, testing and commissioning teams, and University facilities staff—to ensure mechanical scopes are effectively integrated within the overall project delivery.
• The Project Manager maintains accurate and complete project documentation, including cost tracking, schedule updates, change management, and contract records.
• The Project Manager prepares and updates project cost estimates and financial forecasts and develops and maintains detailed schedules that coordinate mechanical construction activities, equipment deliveries, utility shutdowns, and commissioning with other project disciplines. The role proactively identifies schedule risks and recommends mitigation strategies to support timely project completion.
• This position administers and enforces contract requirements, ensuring compliance with project specifications, procurement regulations, and construction milestones. Responsibilities include participating in bid reviews, evaluating contractor proposals, addressing bid irregularities, and providing recommendations to support contract award decisions.
• The Project Manager supports the broader project management team by sharing best practices and lessons learned related to mechanical scope coordination, constructability, and risk management, while maintaining overall accountability for project delivery.

45% Project Management:

• Manages the full lifecycle of construction projects ranging from $10K to $75M, with a strong emphasis on mechanical systems (HVAC, plumbing, process piping, and building controls), along with other systems as assigned based on division needs.
• Leads mechanical design and construction efforts, ensuring compatibility with existing campus infrastructure and consideration for future expansion and scalability.
• Develops project scope, objectives, and detailed mechanical design criteria and technical specifications in collaboration with engineers, contractors, commissioning agents, and University stakeholders.
• Evaluates project feasibility and ensures compliance with University standards, State and Federal codes, and industry best practices.
• Has experience supporting or overseeing alternative delivery procurement methods, including Construction Manager at Risk (CM‑R) and Design‑Build (D‑B), to optimize project outcomes.
• Ensures mechanical system reliability, efficiency, and maintainability by coordinating with campus utilities, facilities operations, and maintenance teams.
• Develops and implements risk mitigation strategies, including contingency planning related to system redundancy, equipment failure, and operational continuity.
• Identifies potential risks associated with mechanical safety, system performance, constructability, energy efficiency, and system integration.
• Ensures adherence to applicable codes and standards, including International Mechanical Code (IMC), ASHRAE standards, NFPA, OSHA, and other regulatory requirements.
• Collaborates with University safety, facilities, and commissioning teams to address life‑safety considerations, system testing, startup, and commissioning requirements.

JOB CODE: AK04 EMPLOYEE TYPE: Regular FTE Staff Minimum Requirements: A bachelor's degree and relevant project management experience. Preferred Requirements: Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field 3 years experience in Project Management with focus on Mechanical Projects Professional Engineer (PE)- Mechanical License

RESPONSIBILITIES: JOB KNOWLEDGE Comprehensive knowledge of theories, concepts and practices and ability to use in complex, difficult and/or unprecedented situations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Not responsible for supervising employees.

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES No fiscal responsibility for the department's budget.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ascend or descend (i.e. stairs, ladder): 20%
• Sit (stationary position) for prolonged period: 50%
• Stand for Prolonged Period: 20%
• Perceive, observe, clarity of vision: 100%
• Recognize or inspect visually: 50%
• Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself: 100%
• Walk or move about: 40%

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Mechanical hazards: 10%
• Vibration: 15%
• Overnight travel: 5%
• Electrical hazards: 25%
• Wet and/or humid: 10%
• Exposure to heat or cold: 10%
• Noise: 15%
• Exposure to dust/fumes: 10%

WORK SCHEDULE:

Standard Hours: 37.5

COMPENSATION INFORMATION:

Expected Salary Range $75,000 - $90,000 Salary is dependent upon several factors including, but not limited to, a candidate's previous experience, knowledge, skills and performance in accordance with Clemson's compensation guidelines.

ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL LEVEL:

Normal Operations - Required to follow emergency facility closure and modified operations directives, and not normally expected to work on-site during emergency situations.

JOB LOCATION:

Seneca, SC

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

November 20, 2026

MILITARY AND VETERAN:

Military Equivalency: Clemson University is proud to allow educational equivalency for military technical certifications and trainings that directly relate to the job duties.

Veteran Preference: South Carolina provides employment preference to eligible veterans for qualifying full‑time permanent positions. To be considered, applicants must meet the minimum qualifications, have been discharged under honorable conditions, and indicate their veteran status in the application by uploading a DD‑214 for confidential review. A request for Veteran Preference can be made via the application process. Please contact [e-mail] with any questions or issues.

CLOSING STATEMENT:

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.