Sr. Mechanical Engineer (HVAC)

Stratus®; Holland (MI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Stratus is seeking a Sr. Mechanical Engineer (HVAC) with a PE license to lead technical work on engineering projects. You will guide design decisions, ensure code compliance, and mentor junior staff.

You will oversee HVAC system design, load calculations, equipment sizing, and coordination with clients, vendors, and cross‑functional teams to deliver projects on time and within budget.

Travel to job sites may be 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead HVAC system design and analysis, including load calculations and equipment sizing.
• Coordinate with clients, vendors, and project teams to set design criteria.
• Oversee schedules, budgets, and deliverables to ensure on‑time completion.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship across the team.
• Review and approve design documentation and QA procedures.
• Evaluate energy efficiency opportunities and lifecycle costs.
• Travel to construction sites to verify conformance.
• Support start‑up and commissioning activities.

Skills

Project management

HVAC design

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Communication

Education

ABET-accredited Mechanical Engineering degree

PE license

Tools

Revit MEP

Autodesk BIM 360

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.