Mechanical Engineer - HVAC and Plumbing Systems

Kairos Power•Albuquerque, NM

About The Position

Kairos Power is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Mechanical Engineer to design and develop HVAC and plumbing systems, oversee their installation, and provide engineering support for maintenance in commercial and institutional facilities. The role collaborates with Facilities Maintenance and multidisciplinary project teams to support reliable, efficient building operations and ensure mechanical systems meet applicable codes, standards, and project sustainability goals. The engineer supports new construction and renovation projects through system design, calculations, technical documentation, equipment selection, and design criteria development. The role also provides support through construction, installation, and commissioning, and contributes to troubleshooting, system optimization, maintainability reviews, and sustainable design initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
At least 7 years of relevant experience in mechanical design or facilities engineering, focused on building systems.
Proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD or Revit and with BIM software.
Proficiency with HVAC load calculation and energy modeling software.
Strong understanding of building mechanical systems, including HVAC and plumbing.
Ability to use energy modeling and engineering analysis tools.
Knowledge of relevant industry standards and building codes.
Knowledge of psychrometrics, ventilation, indoor air quality, and temperature and humidity control principles.
Knowledge of domestic water, sanitary drainage, and vent system design principles, including backflow prevention.
Ability to evaluate equipment and system alternatives based on capacity, reliability, maintainability, energy use, and life-cycle cost.
Occasionally requires working weekends, schedule flexibility, and extended hours to support launch and critical project timelines.
Some travel may be required (5%).
Must be authorized by the Department of Energy to access Part 810-controlled information at the facility.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree.
Professional Engineer (PE) license.
Experience with building management systems such as WebCTRL, Carrier HAP, or TRANE Trace.

Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of mechanical systems for new construction and renovation projects, including HVAC and plumbing.
Prepare schematics, technical drawings, specifications, and reports using CAD and BIM software.
Perform engineering calculations, including preliminary heating and cooling load calculations, airflow and ductwork calculations, and psychrometric analysis; review load calculation results for consistency with project requirements.
Collaborate with Facilities Maintenance, architects, structural and electrical engineers, contractors, project managers, and other cross-functional teams.
Ensure mechanical designs and installations comply with local, state, and federal building codes and standards, including ASHRAE and NFPA.
Provide technical support during construction, installation, and commissioning, including reviewing shop drawings, conducting site inspections, and resolving field issues.
Investigate equipment failures and operating difficulties, diagnose faulty operations, and recommend remedies and efficiency improvements.
Evaluate and select materials and equipment, coordinating procurement with suppliers and vendors.
Integrate energy-efficient and sustainable design practices, including applicable LEED certification requirements.
Develop and document HVAC and plumbing design criteria based on facility use, occupancy, operating requirements, and available utility capacity.
Evaluate equipment access, service clearances, and maintenance and replacement provisions during design reviews.
Perform other duties as assigned.