Mechanical Engineer

Kitchell•San Diego, CA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Kitchell is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer for its Southern California region, based in San Diego. The Mechanical Engineer serves as a technical advisor and trusted partner to clients, evaluating, planning, and optimizing existing facilities. The role leads and contributes to Facility Condition Assessments (FCA), feasibility studies, capital planning, and master planning, translating mechanical-system findings into actionable insights. Working with project managers, clients, and multidisciplinary teams, the engineer provides technical leadership and helps shape long-term investment strategies for public and institutional assets. The position is office based in the San Diego Regional Office and requires travel to project sites, client meetings, and other locations based on project needs. Kitchell provides services across the built environment, including general contracting, construction management, development, facilities management, engineering, and architecture. The company describes an entrepreneurial environment with in-house education, mentoring, cross-training, and opportunities for internal career growth. The annual base salary range is $100,000–$110,000. Individual pay is based on factors including job-related skills, education, experience, abilities, and internal equity. The range is subject to change at the Company’s discretion.

Requirements

Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, building systems, applicable codes, and industry standards.
Proficiency with Revit, Bluebeam, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, calculations, and other technical data to identify and solve complex problems.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal teams.
Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize multiple assignments and meet project deadlines.
Sound professional judgment and problem-solving abilities in existing building conditions.
Commitment to integrity, quality, and client service.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record, free from suspensions or restrictions.
Travel to project sites, client meetings, and other locations based on project needs.

Nice To Haves

State of California Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer in Training (EIT) certification is preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead and perform assessments of HVAC, plumbing, and related building systems, including equipment condition and performance.
Interpret existing conditions and translate findings into clear recommendations, renewal priorities, and capital improvement strategies.
Provide mechanical engineering and code expertise for feasibility studies, adaptive reuse evaluations, and long-range planning.
Prepare and oversee technical reports, assessment summaries, and client-facing deliverables.
Support master planning, including equipment lifecycle, system capacity, facility prioritization, and phasing strategies.
Collaborate with project managers, clients, consultants, and agencies to align technical findings with project goals.
Participate in stakeholder meetings, workshops, and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations.
Conduct field investigations and site visits to validate existing mechanical conditions.
Perform design and constructability reviews of third-party documents, as applicable.
Mentor junior staff and contribute to continuous improvement of assessment tools, standards, and reporting processes.