Gauthier, Alvarado & Associates, a Northern Virginia-based multidisciplinary Architectural/Engineering firm located in Fairfax, VA, provides Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical engineering services across a diverse portfolio of commercial office buildings, educational facilities, public agencies, and interior tenant build-outs.
GAA is seeking a mid-level Mechanical Engineer (7–10 years of experience) with a strong background in building systems design to join our growing team. This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer who can independently design mechanical systems with minimal oversight while also serving as a key contributor between senior leadership and junior staff.
The successful candidate will play a critical role in developing high-quality construction documents, supporting project delivery, and helping mentor entry-level engineers, while collaborating closely with in-house architects and engineering disciplines.
This position is based in our Fairfax, VA office, with a hybrid schedule of 4 days in-office and 1 day remote.
Candidates must be current U.S. residents and legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available.
Lead the design and development of HVAC and mechanical systems for a variety of building types with minimal supervision
Prepare detailed construction documents, including drawings, specifications, and system layouts for mechanical and plumbing systems
Perform load calculations, system sizing, and equipment selection using industry-standard tools (e.g., Carrier HAP or similar)
Collaborate with architects and multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure coordinated, integrated designs
Review projects for interdisciplinary coordination and overall design completeness
Provide guidance and mentorship to junior/entry-level engineers
Support project managers in meeting deadlines, budgets, and client expectations
Ensure designs comply with applicable building codes, standards, and sustainability requirements
Participate in construction administration activities, including submittal reviews and site observations
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university
7–10 years of experience in mechanical design for commercial, educational, and/or government projects
EIT certification required; PE license preferred or actively in progress
Demonstrated ability to design building mechanical systems independently with limited guidance
Strong experience developing construction documents and specifications
In-depth knowledge of HVAC systems, including air and hydronic distribution, chillers, boilers, pumps, air handling units, refrigeration systems, and building controls
Experience with plumbing system design and coordination
Working knowledge of applicable codes, regulations, and industry standards
Proficiency in AutoCAD, BIM/Revit, Carrier HAP (or similar load calculation software), and Microsoft Office
Strong communication, organization, and writing skills
Collaborative mindset with the ability to contribute across experience levels on the team
LEED accreditation is a plus
A self-starter with strong technical design capabilities and sound engineering judgment
Someone who takes ownership of their work and can drive projects forward with minimal direction
Ability to work from the Fairfax, VA office 4 days per week with one remote day