Lead Designer – Utilities and Central Energy

KFI Engineers PC•Cincinnati, OH

1h•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Designer (Mechanical) plays a key role in the successful execution of projects by leading the development and coordination of mechanical design deliverables. This position is primarily responsible for producing high-quality construction documents utilizing AutoCAD, Plant 3D, and Revit, while ensuring accuracy, consistency, and compliance with project requirements and industry standards. The Lead Mechanical Designer collaborates closely with engineers, designers, and other disciplines to coordinate designs and support successful project outcomes. As an advanced-level design professional, the Lead Designer assumes significant responsibility for independently planning, developing, and completing design documents for assigned projects. This role provides technical guidance and mentorship to junior designers, supports project management efforts, and serves as a key resource for resolving complex design challenges. The Lead Designer is expected to demonstrate both technical expertise and leadership skills to drive quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement across project teams.

Requirements

An AAS Degree in design/drafting or equivalent work experience.
Minimum of 10+ years of design experience.
Expertise in 3D design, mechanical general arrangements, piping systems, and P&IDs.
Experience reviewing mechanical equipment drawings.
Demonstrated excellence in sophisticated layouts, measuring, technical knowledge of systems and codes.
Ability to complete contract plans for small to large mechanical projects.
Ability to independently perform all design tasks not requiring engineering professional judgment.
Strong project management skills with the ability to work independently on complex projects.
Demonstrated leadership and supervisory or people-management experience, including the capacity to guide and develop junior team members.
Proven ability to build strong client relationships and establish credibility with internal and external stakeholders.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.
Ability to present complex information to diverse audiences, synthesize ideas into actionable recommendations, and positively influence outcomes.
Strong planning, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Expert knowledge of computer technology and the application of technology in business.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency with AutoCAD Plant 3D software and/or Revit.
10+ years of industrial plant design experience.

Responsibilities

Lead, supervise, and develop design staff, including goal setting, performance reviews, and ongoing coaching to support professional growth.
Provide leadership, guiding the efforts and development of other designers, including on-the-job training.
Support staffing and recruiting efforts to ensure the team has the talent needed to meet current and future project demands.
Manage design staff resource planning, assigning project work and collaborating closely with UCE Project Managers to balance multiple project priorities.
Lead entire projects, demonstrating project management skills from inception to completion.
Estimate project hours, scope of work, and contribute to budget and schedule creation.
Schedule and lead design meetings, drawing reviews, and act as a KFI Representative at Project Meetings.
Coordinate work with stakeholders, providing technical support and work direction while managing client relationships.
Design complete systems for assigned projects, managing the preparation of drawing documents.
Create comprehensive industrial project drawings, including General Arrangements, P&IDs, 3D models, piping, and Isometrics.
Participate in design meetings and lead drawing reviews as needed to ensure accuracy, quality, and alignment with project objectives.
Take ownership of tasks, bringing them to completion while seeking assistance when needed.
Support and drive drawing standards, Plant3D standards, AutoCAD standards within the group.
Support cross-departmental resource sharing efforts, standards alignment, and other initiatives as required.
Maintain a proactive approach to work, continuously improving processes and technical skills.
Conduct site visits, gather field data and measurements, and perform construction observations and punch list reviews as assigned.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Health, dental and vision insurance coverage
Virtual health services
Health Savings Account (HSA) & Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for HDHP enrollees with KFI contributions
Flexible Spending Account
401(k) plan
Short-term and long-term disability insurance, life and AD&D insurance
Employee Assistance Program
Paid Time Off to include Earned Sick and Safe Time in accordance with state laws
Paid Volunteer Time Off
Company Paid Holidays
Tuition Reimbursement
Bereavement Leave
Voluntary benefits offered include life, accident, critical illness coverage