Associate Principal/Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Overview

A nationally recognized building-systems engineering consultancy is seeking an Associate Principal/Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to help lead its Chicago practice. The organization delivers sophisticated, high-performance MEP solutions for complex buildings across healthcare, education, commercial, hospitality, transportation, and other markets.

This is an opportunity for an established mechanical engineering leader to shape a local team, deepen client relationships, and take ownership of technically challenging work from early planning through construction.

Position Description

The Associate Principal/Senior Mechanical Design Engineer will serve as a discipline leader across multiple MEP projects. This person will blend advanced HVAC design expertise with team leadership, business development, project delivery, construction-phase support, and exceptional client service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing local MEP design team.

• Develop and maintain trusted relationships with architects, owners, and other local clients.

• Lead HVAC system selection, engineering, design, and interdisciplinary coordination.

• Prepare and oversee HVAC drawings, analyses, specifications, calculations, and other technical deliverables.

• Direct and support HVAC design staff while maintaining high standards for quality, accountability, and collaboration.

• Provide construction administration and conduct site observations for assigned projects.

• Communicate clearly with clients and project partners while providing responsive service to internal and external teams.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.

• At least 10 years of experience in MEP mechanical design and consulting.

• Demonstrated team-leadership and staff-management experience.

• Project management experience within the MEP industry.

• Strong client-service, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.

• Comprehensive understanding of applicable building codes and HVAC design systems.

Desired Experience & Skills:

• Professional Engineer license or equivalent depth of experience.

• LEED accreditation.

• Working knowledge of IES-VE.

• A relationship-driven leadership style and the ability to support both technical delivery and practice growth.

Benefits:

Salary Range: $120,000–$150,000 annually, plus eligibility for a conditional bonus.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• 401(k), life insurance, disability coverage, and transportation benefits.

• Generous paid time off, paid holidays, and a year-end office closure.

• Professional development, mentorship, and opportunities for continued career growth.

• Paid volunteer time and opportunities to contribute to the local community.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you are ready to combine technical leadership, team development, and client partnership in a role with meaningful influence, we would welcome the opportunity to connect. Help guide exceptional people and projects while building the next chapter of a growing Chicago practice—apply today.

This position offers a flexible hybrid schedule with a minimum of two days per week in the Chicago office.

The employer is committed to equal employment opportunity and considers qualified applicants without regard to legally protected characteristics.