Principal Engineer - Mechanical

MSA Professional Services, Inc.•Jacksonville, FL

2d•$112,000 - $179,500•Onsite

About The Position

MSA Professional Services is looking for a Principal Engineer - Mechanical to lead the design and delivery of complex mechanical systems that support critical infrastructure and built environment projects. As a Principal Engineer, you will guide projects from concept through construction, serve as a trusted advisor to clients and stakeholders, and drive technical excellence, innovation, and quality across multidisciplinary teams—all while helping shape the future of the communities we serve. This role is based out of our Jacksonville, Florida office and plays a critical role in advancing technical excellence, driving innovation, and supporting strategic growth across the organization. The Principal Engineer works closely with leadership, project managers, multidisciplinary teams, and clients to guide complex projects, establish design standards, and ensure high-quality, forward-thinking engineering solutions. At MSA, we believe great people build great communities. As a 100% employee-owned firm, our teammates share in the success of the company while working together to deliver impactful solutions for the communities we serve. We foster a collaborative environment where curiosity, innovation, and professional growth are encouraged.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program
20+ years of relevant post-graduate engineering experience
Extensive experience in municipal infrastructure, water/wastewater treatment, and pumping systems
Proven experience leading complex, multidisciplinary engineering projects
Expert knowledge of mechanical engineering systems related to the built environment.
Strong leadership and strategic thinking capabilities
Exceptional communication, presentation, and client relationship skills
Ability to influence technical direction across teams and projects
Strong understanding of project financials, risk management, and delivery strategies
Professional Engineer (PE) license required in FL

Nice To Haves

Multi-state licensure preferred

Responsibilities

Serve as the technical authority for complex mechanical systems including wastewater treatment processes, pumping systems, and related infrastructure
Lead design strategy and provide oversight for high-risk, high-complexity projects and project portfolios
Review and approve advanced engineering calculations, reports, and construction documents
Establish and maintain firm-wide best practices, standards, and design approaches
Drive innovation through evaluation and implementation of emerging technologies, tools, and methodologies
Serve as a trusted advisor and senior technical representative to municipal clients, partners, and regulatory agencies
Lead or support proposal development, client presentations, and project pursuits
Define project strategies, scopes, and technical approaches for complex infrastructure projects
Ensure successful project delivery through oversight of scope, schedule, budget, and quality
Represent MSA in high-level client meetings, public forums, and industry events
Contribute to business development strategy and client relationship growth
Support strategic planning efforts and firm-wide initiatives
Provide technical leadership in pursuits, interviews, and proposal development
Enhance MSA’s industry presence through participation in conferences, professional associations, and thought leadership
Mentor and coach engineers across all experience levels, supporting technical growth and leadership development
Provide guidance on complex engineering challenges and project execution strategies
Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance development of engineering staff
Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement

Benefits

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost
401(k) Retirement Plan – Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependents
Paid Time Off – Minimum of 17 days in the first year
Paid Holidays – 8 holidays annually
Paid Parental Leave – 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parents
Employer-Paid Insurance – Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage
Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP) – Annual performance-based bonus opportunity
Better Together – A collaborative work environment that promotes open doors, new ideas, and honest opinions.
Multi-disciplinary Opportunities – As multi-talented people in a multi-disciplinary firm, we encourage employees to explore interests, seek new experiences, and apply their skills where they can make the greatest impact.
We’ve Got Your Back – Support when you need it and independence when you don’t.
Commitment to DEIB – We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work and where diverse perspectives drive innovation.
Passion & Purpose – We are passionate about what we do and proud of it.
Communities of Practice – Our Communities of Practice bring together experts across disciplines to collaborate, share knowledge, and generate new ideas.