Sr. Mechanical Engineer (HVAC)

Stratus®; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Stratus is hiring a Sr. Mechanical Engineer (HVAC) to lead technical aspects of complex engineering projects in Cincinnati, Ohio. The role requires providing expert guidance to ensure designs meet client expectations and regulatory requirements.

You will mentor junior staff, oversee design development, perform load calculations, equipment sizing, and system layouts, and contribute to project success. Ideal candidates will hold a PE license, have 6–8 years of experience in mechanical design and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical engineering from ABET-accredited university.
• 6–8 years of engineering design and project management experience.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and analysis of HVAC systems, including load calculations, equipment sizing, ducts, and hydronics.
• Set design criteria with clients and vendors for mechanical, refrigeration, and HVAC systems.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables to ensure on-time completion.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship on steam, condensate, refrigeration, and air systems.
• Review bids and oversee quality assurance activities.
• Develop life‑cycle costs and feasibility for design options.
• Assess existing systems for energy improvements and expansion capacity.
• Evaluate loads, diversity, and capacity for future growth.
• Travel to construction sites to verify conformance with the design intent.
• Support startup and commissioning activities.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Project management

Education

ABET-accredited Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

Revit MEP

BIM tools

Job description

About Stratus

Stratus is a multidisciplinary firm specializing in engineering, architecture, interior design, and consulting. Built on the union of deeply rooted firms and recognized industry leaders, we bring together broad expertise and a robust talent pool to deliver comprehensive end‑to‑end solutions. Serving public and private clients across Civic, Commercial, Industrial, Transportation, Education, and Government sectors, we approach every project—whether a targeted renovation or large‑scale infrastructure—with precision, insight, and purpose. Stratus designs spaces that work, last, and make an impact.

Job Summary

We’re hiring for a Sr. Mechanical Engineer (HVAC) that is a licensed professional engineer responsible for leading technical aspects of engineering projects. This role involves providing expert‑level technical guidance, ensuring that designs meet client expectations and regulatory requirements. The Sr. Mechanical Engineer (HVAC) oversees the technical development of projects, mentors junior staff, and serves as a subject matter expert in the field.

Primary Essential Functions

• Lead the design and analysis of HVAC systems, including load calculations, equipment selection, ductwork layout, and hydronic system design.
• Work with clients, their engineering teams and their process vendors to establish design criteria for mechanical, refrigeration and HVAC systems.
• Oversee project timelines, budgets, and deliverables to ensure successful completion.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to the engineering team in steam and condensate, refrigeration, hot and chilled media, compressed air, nitrogen, water supply treatment, and HVAC systems.
• Lead the design and documentation of the systems above.
• Lead and conduct quality assurance reviews.
• Develop life‑cycle costs and feasibility for design options.
• Evaluate existing systems for operational improvements or available capacity for expansion.
• Determine loads, load diversity, and capacity for future growth.
• Review alternatives for equipment and system configuration for client and project fit. Present pros and cons for each approach.
• Evaluate energy efficiency and energy recovery opportunities.
• Have thorough knowledge and understanding of applicable codes and standards.
• Participate in contractor bid review and evaluation.
• Travel to construction sites to confirm conformance to the design intent.
• Provide project support during start‑up/commissioning.

Secondary Essential Functions

• Perform all other duties as assigned.
• Work collaboratively and effectively with clients and colleagues including cross‑functional teams, peers, direct reports, and leadership, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Adapt to changing business needs and priorities, demonstrating flexibility in taking on new responsibilities and adjusting to evolving challenges.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical engineering from ABET‑accredited university.
• 6‑8 years of experience in engineering design and project management.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license
• Strong knowledge of industrial steam, refrigeration, compressed air and HVAC systems.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and decision‑making skills.
• Exceptional communication and leadership abilities.

Preferred

• Proficiency in HVAC modeling, equipment sizing, and system layout using Revit MEP or similar BIM tools.
• Strong diagnostic and analytical skills for troubleshooting HVAC system performance issues.
• Ability to communicate HVAC design concepts through diagrams, schematics, and technical presentations.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Stratus is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy‑related conditions, and lactation), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Stratus Team’s management Team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment.