Principal HVAC Design Engineer

Holtec International • Winslow Township, NJ

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

Holtec International and its subsidiary companies are designing an unfailingly safe and secure source of clean energy using nuclear fission, called the SMR-300 small modular reactor. The position is offered by SMR LLC as a member of the Holtec International family, a global turnkey supplier of equipment and systems for the nuclear, solar, geothermal, and fossil power generation sectors of the energy industry.

The Principal HVAC Design Engineer is responsible for the design and technical leadership of HVAC systems for buildings in the SMR-300 power plant. This role is intended for experienced engineers who can act as a technical authority for assigned Nuclear Island (NI) HVAC systems, independently leading system‑level design, integration, and licensing activities while mentoring junior engineers in a highly regulated environment. Supporting the SMR-300, this position works closely with engineering, manufacturing, and licensing teams as part of a U.S. Government cost‑shared development program, developing system requirements, specifications, analyses, and design documentation to support safe, compliant, and executable plant designs.

Requirements

• BS in Engineering from an ABET-accredited program in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, or closely related field is required, Master’s degree preferred
• Strong academic background in HVAC, heat transfer, and thermodynamics
• 10 years of experience in the design of HVAC systems for the energy industry, with at least 5 years of it coming from the nuclear power production sector
• Demonstrated experience leading HVAC system design efforts and coordinating across engineering disciplines
• Experience overseeing or mentoring junior engineers and reviewing technical work products
• Strong understanding of system integration and interface management in complex engineering projects
• Effective communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to produce high-quality technical documentation
• Master’s degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, or closely related field
• Industry experience in designing HVAC systems for nuclear power plants
• Experience working with engineers and fabricators to develop designs, drawings, and specifications
• Knowledge and understanding of ASHRAE standards
• Experience with using AutoCAD and/or SmartPlant P&ID
• Strong math, analytical, problem-solving, and computer skills
• Eligible to work under 10 CFR Part 810

Nice To Haves

• PE License preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and integration of HVAC systems for power plant buildings, including safety-related and non-safety-related systems
• Provide technical oversight and direction to HVAC engineers and designers, including review and approval of calculations, specifications, and design documents
• Interface with other engineering disciplines (systems, mechanical, civil/structural, I&C) to ensure proper system integration and interface management
• Support and oversee contractors designing HVAC systems, providing technical guidance and ensuring alignment with project requirements
• Consult with vendors to develop and qualify new designs to meet unique or first-of-a-kind challenges
• Review process flow diagrams, piping/ducting and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID/D&ID), system descriptions, specifications, thermal and pressure loss calculations, and control logic
• Lead development and review of calculations for ventilation, heat removal, breathing air requirements, and air leakage from rooms/buildings
• Develop and approve equipment specifications and interact with vendors to obtain technical input and design confirmation of HVAC components
• Review vendor and contractor designs to ensure compliance with industry standards, nuclear quality requirements, and system/component design bases
• Support licensing activities by ensuring HVAC designs align with regulatory requirements and safety analyses
• Identify and resolve complex technical issues, including those impacting system performance, operability, and regulatory compliance
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to development of HVAC engineering best practices within the organization
• Play an active leadership role in a project-driven and highly integrated engineering team

Benefits

• Industry‑leading medical, dental, and vision coverage with a generous employer premium contribution and Day 1 eligibility!
• FLEX Program – Hybrid work opportunities available for eligible roles, where business needs and role requirements allow
• 401(k) retirement plan with up to a 5% company match and immediate vesting to support long‑term financial security
• Paid time off and 11 paid holidays to support rest, balance, and recharge
• Wellness program offering rewards for participation in company‑supported health initiatives
• Commuter benefits supporting mass transit and commuter parking options
• Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance for added peace of mind
• Education assistance to support continued education and professional growth
• Employee support and voluntary benefits, including an Employee Assistance Program and optional coverage such as disability, legal, identity theft, and insurance programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees