Lead Mechanical Engineer - HVAC Systems

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Home office stipend

Professional development

Flexible hours

Retirement matching

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer specializing in HVAC for a fully remote role. You will design, develop, and oversee HVAC solutions across diverse projects, leading a distributed team of engineers and driving energy-efficient climate control innovations.

You will apply thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and building systems design expertise, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with architects and PMs to deliver integrated, compliant solutions while maintaining high

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent with HVAC specialization.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive HVAC design and project management experience.
• Experience with energy modeling and simulation software.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of complex HVAC systems for large buildings.
• Perform heating/cooling load calculations and airflow analyses.
• Specify equipment including chillers, boilers, AHUs, and controls.
• Create P&IDs and drawings using CAD/BIM tools.
• Ensure compliance with energy codes and standards (ASHRAE, local codes).
• Oversee project execution, budgets, timelines, and resources.
• Collaborate with architects, electrical engineers, and PMs.
• Provide technical guidance to remote HVAC engineers.
• Support commissioning activities and site visits as needed.
• Stay updated on HVAC innovations and sustainable design.

Skills

Leadership

Remote team management

Project management

Communication

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit MEP

HAP

TRACE 700

BIM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in sustainable building solutions, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer specializing in HVAC systems for a fully remote position. This role is critical for designing, developing, and overseeing the implementation of advanced HVAC solutions across our diverse portfolio of projects. You will lead a virtual team of engineers, driving innovation in energy-efficient climate control technologies. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, psychrometrics, and building systems design, coupled with strong leadership and project management skills. This remote-first role demands exceptional communication and collaboration abilities to work effectively with distributed teams and stakeholders. We are committed to creating innovative, eco-friendly environments, and your expertise will be pivotal in achieving these goals. Join a forward-thinking company that values sustainability, efficiency, and employee growth in a flexible, remote work setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex HVAC systems for commercial and industrial buildings.
• Perform detailed calculations for heating and cooling loads, airflow, and system performance.
• Select and specify HVAC equipment, including chillers, boilers, air handling units, and controls.
• Create P&IDs, schematics, and detailed design drawings using relevant CAD and BIM software.
• Ensure designs comply with energy efficiency standards, building codes, and environmental regulations.
• Oversee project execution, managing timelines, budgets, and resources for HVAC system installations.
• Collaborate with architects, electrical engineers, and project managers to ensure integrated design solutions.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a remote team of HVAC engineers.
• Conduct site visits (as required) and provide commissioning support for HVAC systems.
• Stay current with emerging HVAC technologies, sustainable design practices, and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience with a specialization in HVAC.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in HVAC system design and project management.
• Proven expertise in building energy modeling and simulation software (e.g., HAP, TRACE 700).
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit MEP, and other relevant design software.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer principles.
• Experience with various types of HVAC systems, including VRF, central plant, and dedicated outdoor air systems (DOAS).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills for remote team management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects from concept to completion.
• Knowledge of building codes and standards (e.g., ASHRAE, local codes).
• Professional Engineer (PE) license is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and excellent long-term incentive plans.
• We provide a comprehensive benefits package including top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• A generous home office stipend is provided to support a productive remote work environment, including technology and internet reimbursement.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including advanced training, certifications, and attendance at industry-leading conferences.
• Flexible working hours and ample paid time off to foster a healthy work-life balance.
• Our client fosters a culture of innovation, autonomy, and sustainability, with significant opportunities for career advancement.
• Retirement savings plan with substantial employer matching.
• Employee assistance program for confidential support.

Join a pioneering team dedicated to creating smarter, greener buildings through exceptional HVAC engineering.