Principal Mechanical Engineer

Legence • San Jose, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Therma, a Legence company For over 50 years, Therma has continued to redefine the mechanical construction landscapes in California. Renowned for outstanding client service and attention to detail, we balance innovative, facility-specific solutions with a pragmatic, cost-conscious approach. Today, the firm employs more than 1,100 people in 3 regional offices, and its clients represent a diverse range of market sectors, including Biopharmaceutical, Education, Healthcare, Food & Beverage, Commercial, Industrial and Data Center facilities. Our culture is open, innovative, collaborative, and fun – all reflected in recognition of Therma as a #1 Best Place to Work on multiple occasions. We create an environment that empowers & challenges employees, giving them the greatest opportunity to succeed. Location: San Jose, CA (Onsite) Therma is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer with 10+ years of relevant experience to lead the mechanical design of high-performance, energy-efficient building systems. This is a senior technical and leadership role, working closely with clients, architects, and internal teams from project inception through completion. Our ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and hands-on problem solver who thrives on building strong client relationships and delivering innovative mechanical solutions. You will serve as both a technical expert and mentor, guiding engineers in the design of HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical systems for a variety of commercial, industrial, and institutional projects.

Requirements

• 10+ years of mechanical engineering experience, with progressive responsibility in consulting engineering.
• EIT or PE license required (California PE preferred).
• Proven track record in project management and client interfacing.
• Experience with cooling/heating plants, MEP design, and energy-efficient systems.
• Proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD.
• Strong knowledge of building codes, industry standards, and sustainable design practices.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field) required.

Nice To Haves

• Mechanical, HVAC, and plumbing system design expertise.
• Construction and field coordination experience.
• Energy analysis and sustainable design implementation.
• Skilled in reviewing submittals, drawings, and technical specifications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all phases of mechanical system design, including HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical infrastructure for new construction and retrofit projects.
• Manage projects from concept through construction, ensuring quality, budget, and schedule goals are met.
• Collaborate with owners, architects, engineers, and contractors to develop innovative, energy-efficient solutions tailored to client needs.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and quality control for engineering staff.
• Review and approve contractor submittals, shop drawings, and technical documents for compliance with project requirements.
• Evaluate mechanical design proposals for feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and operational performance.
• Conduct site visits to assess existing systems and verify installation quality.
• Specify system components and direct modifications to meet performance standards and client expectations.

Benefits

• Company Paid medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, accident & sickness benefit, basic group life and AD&D, and Employee Assistance Program
• Paid vacation, company-paid holidays, and paid sick leave
• 401(k) retirement savings plan

What This Job Offers

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