Director of Mechanical Engineering

OTJ Architects•Washington, DC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

OTJ is looking for a Director of Mechanical Engineer who is PE certified. This role focuses on the planning, design, and execution of mechanical systems for a wide range of building and infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise, strong leadership experience, and a collaborative mindset well-suited to multidisciplinary AEC environments.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering
10+ years of progressive mechanical engineering experience, including demonstrated leadership responsibility
Active PE license in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC
Strong working knowledge of HVAC and mechanical systems design, energy codes, and industry standards (ASHRAE, IMC, IBC, IECC, NFPA)
Proven experience overseeing complex mechanical systems and multidisciplinary design projects
In-depth understanding of permitting processes and coordination with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs)
Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams, manage competing priorities, and influence at the executive level
Excellent communication, leadership, and client-facing skills
Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and mechanical engineering calculation and analysis tools
Experience working within BIM environments and coordinating across multidisciplinary design teams

Responsibilities

Lead and grow the mechanical engineering department, including staffing plans, organizational structure, and succession planning.
Establish and enforce mechanical engineering standards, best practices, and quality control/quality assurance procedures
Partner with executive leadership to define short- and long-term strategic goals for the mechanical discipline
Represent the mechanical engineering practice internally and externally, including client meetings, presentations, and industry events
Provide high-level technical leadership and peer review for complex mechanical designs and system solutions
Serve as Engineer of Record (EOR) for mechanical design projects, including sealing and signing construction documents
Design and document mechanical systems for commercial, institutional, healthcare, higher education, mixed-use, and/or government facilities
Develop HVAC systems, central plant systems, plumbing interfaces, energy-efficient and sustainable design solutions, and specialized mechanical systems as required by project type
Prepare and review drawings, specifications, calculations, basis-of-design narratives, and technical reports
Coordinate closely with architects; structural, civil, electrical, and plumbing/fire protection engineering teams; and other consultants throughout design development and construction
Ensure compliance with all applicable codes and standards (IMC, IBC, ASHRAE, IECC, NFPA, local AHJs)
Resolve complex technical challenges and project risk issues across multiple concurrent projects
Oversee mechanical engineering work across multiple markets (e.g., commercial, institutional, healthcare, federal, infrastructure)
Support project planning, fee development, scope definition, and resource allocation for mechanical services
Ensure mechanical scopes are delivered on schedule and within budget
Act as a senior technical advisor and client liaison to support project success, repeat work, and long-term client relationships
Collaborate with leadership and business development teams on proposals, interviews, and pursuits
Identify and help develop new market opportunities, services, technologies, and delivery methods
Support the financial performance of the mechanical department, including utilization, staffing efficiency, and profitability
Perform other duties as assigned