Principal Engineer, HVAC, Mechanical, and Sustainability

ModernaTX • Norwood, MA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Role: A candidate in this role is a key technical contributor responsible for delivering reliable, compliant, and energy-efficient HVAC and mechanical systems for critical facilities and labs. This role partners closely with Facilities, EHS, Quality, and project teams to support design, construction, and operational readiness of site capital projects and sustaining engineering initiatives. The individual in this position provides hands-on technical guidance, applies best practices in sustainability and energy performance, and helps ensure systems meet user requirements, safety expectations, and applicable regulatory standards.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, HVAC Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: 10+ years of experience in HVAC and mechanical engineering, with a strong focus on sustainability.
• Deep technical knowledge of HVAC and mechanical systems, including design, construction, and operational principles.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale, international projects from design to operational readiness.
• Demonstrated expertise in regulatory compliance, energy efficiency, and green building certifications.
• Professional Engineering (PE) license or equivalent certification required.
• GxP/GMP compliance training.
• Strong understanding of FDA, EMA, and ICH regulations.
• Strong leadership and project management skills, with experience managing global, cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple technical priorities within a fast-paced, matrixed environment.
• Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills to identify and resolve complex technical issues.
• Exceptional decision-making abilities, with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing stakeholders at all levels.
• Commitment to data integrity, safety, and quality excellence in all work activities.

Nice To Haves

• LEED or WELL accreditation preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of HVAC and mechanical systems for high-profile projects, ensuring energy efficiency, reliability, and compliance with global standards.
• Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) in HVAC, mechanical engineering, and sustainability, providing guidance on complex technical challenges.
• Drive the adoption of innovative technologies and methodologies to improve system performance and sustainability.
• Oversee the design, construction, and operationalization of critical clinical and commercial facilities and labs including international sites.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and global stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet organizational objectives.
• Develop and implement standardized engineering practices across global sites to ensure consistency and quality.
• Champion sustainability initiatives by integrating renewable energy, efficient HVAC designs, and green building certifications (e.g., LEED, WELL).
• Monitor and evaluate energy performance metrics, implementing improvements to reduce environmental impact and operational costs.
• Stay abreast of global sustainability trends and regulations, ensuring projects align with emerging best practices.
• Provide strategic input to senior leadership on engineering and sustainability initiatives, aligning projects with organizational goals.
• Support business development by contributing technical expertise to proposals and client engagements.
• Actively participate in industry forums, conferences, and publications to enhance the company’s reputation as a leader in HVAC, mechanical systems, and sustainability.
• Ensure engineering documentation is complete, accurate, and traceable (e.g., design rationale, calculations, equipment data, change controls as applicable).
• Support compliance with GxP expectations by following established procedures and collaborating with Quality/Validation partners on documentation requirements.
• Participate in investigations, CAPAs, or change management activities related to HVAC/mechanical systems as needed.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers, fostering a high-performance team culture.
• Promote knowledge sharing and continuous learning within the engineering team.
• Lead training programs on sustainability and emerging HVAC technologies to enhance team capabilities.

Benefits

• Best-in-class healthcare coverage, plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs
• A holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support
• Family planning benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown
• Savings and investment opportunities to help you plan for the future
• Location-specific perks and extras

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level