Sr. Mechanical Engineer (HVAC)

Stratus®; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Stratus is a multidisciplinary engineering firm seeking a Sr. Mechanical Engineer (HVAC) who is a licensed professional engineer to lead technical aspects of projects and mentor junior staff.

The role focuses on providing expert guidance and ensuring designs meet client expectations and regulatory requirements. The candidate will supervise HVAC system design, assess energy efficiency opportunities, and work with clients, their teams, and vendors to establish design criteria.

Qualifications

• ABET- or equivalent ABET-accredited degree in mechanical engineering.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and analysis of HVAC systems, including load calculations, equipment selection, ductwork layout, and hydronic design.
• Coordinate with clients, engineering teams and 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, and water treatment.
• Lead design and documentation of the systems above and conduct quality assurance reviews.
• Develop life-cycle costs and feasibility for design options.
• Evaluate existing systems for improvements or expansion capacity.
• Determine loads, load diversity and capacity for future growth.
• Review equipment/configuration options and present pros/cons.

Skills

Project leadership

HVAC systems knowledge

Analytical problem-solving

Excellent communication

Education

ABET-accredited mechanical engineering degree

Tools

Revit MEP

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.