Principal Mechanical Engineer - HVAC Design

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer with HVAC specialization to lead the mechanical engineering discipline in Durban, driving energy-efficient, compliant HVAC designs for large-scale projects. The role includes mentoring engineers, coordinating with architects and other disciplines, and guiding commissioning to ensure design intent is achieved.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, 12+ years of HVAC experience, and a track record of leading complex

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 12+ years in mechanical engineering with HVAC building services.
• Proven track record leading HVAC projects end-to-end.
• Pr.Eng. registration or eligibility desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead HVAC design for large-scale commercial, industrial, and institutional projects.
• Develop designs, drawings, specifications, and calculations for HVAC systems.
• Perform load calculations and energy analyses, optimizing for efficiency.
• Mentor junior engineers and ensure quality control of designs.
• Coordinate with architects, clients, and other disciplines for integrated delivery.
• Oversee commissioning and verify performance against design intent.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Client management

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

HAP

TRACE 700

Revit MEP

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished engineering consultancy firm renowned for its sustainable building solutions, is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer with specialized expertise in HVAC design to join their esteemed practice in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior position requires a visionary leader to guide the mechanical engineering discipline, focusing on the design and implementation of high-performance heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for a diverse portfolio of commercial and industrial projects. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in mentoring a team of engineers, ensuring the delivery of innovative, energy-efficient, and compliant HVAC solutions. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to landmark projects and drive technical excellence within a highly respected organization in the Durban area.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical engineering design process for HVAC systems in large-scale commercial, industrial, and institutional projects.
• Develop conceptual designs, detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and calculations for HVAC systems, ensuring compliance with all relevant codes and standards.
• Perform load calculations, airflow analysis, and equipment selection, optimizing for energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
• Conduct thorough technical reviews of designs produced by the engineering team, providing constructive feedback and ensuring quality control.
• Manage project schedules, budgets, and client communications related to mechanical engineering aspects.
• Liaise with architects, clients, and other engineering disciplines (structural, electrical, plumbing) to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Oversee the commissioning process of HVAC systems, troubleshooting issues and verifying performance against design intent.
• Mentor and develop junior mechanical engineers and designers, fostering their technical skills and professional growth.
• Stay current with emerging HVAC technologies, sustainable design practices, and relevant industry standards.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for project stakeholders and client meetings.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with a strong specialization in HVAC design for building services.
• Proven track record in leading complex HVAC design projects from conception through to completion.
• Expertise in HVAC system design principles, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and psychrometrics.
• Proficiency in industry-standard HVAC design software (e.g., HAP, TRACE 700, Revit MEP, AutoCAD).
• In-depth knowledge of building codes, ASHRAE standards, SANS codes, and other relevant regulations.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and client management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration or eligibility is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive compensation package including an attractive annual salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a robust retirement savings plan. This position offers significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership development. The hybrid work model allows for a balance between collaborative office work at our Durban location and remote flexibility. Additional perks include generous annual leave, performance-related bonuses, and access to cutting-edge project opportunities in the region.