Senior Mechanical Engineer - PE (HVAC)

Nelson • Birmingham, AL

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

NELSON is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and delivery of complex mechanical systems for facility and infrastructure projects. The role provides technical oversight, serves as Engineer of Record, and drives engineering quality from initial design through construction administration. The engineer will bring expertise in complex HVAC systems, central plant design, and specialized building environments, while mentoring engineering teams, coordinating multidisciplinary work, and developing solutions to challenging requirements.

The position leads mechanical design on technically complex projects and may involve hands-on HVAC design and drafting in Autodesk Revit. It also includes client communication, construction administration, and support for project planning and staffing. Hybrid work options are available, with periodic travel for site visits and client meetings.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
• Active Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• 10+ years of HVAC engineering experience.
• Experience serving as Engineer of Record and independently signing and sealing mechanical construction documents.
• Advanced technical expertise in unitary HVAC, central chilled water and heating hot water plants, steam distribution, condensate return, and hydronic systems.
• Expert understanding of psychrometrics, including sensible and latent loads, cooling coil performance, dehumidification, reheat, and humidity control.
• Advanced knowledge of central plant design, pumping configurations, equipment staging, and hydronic distribution.
• Ability to independently develop HVAC sequences of operation and building automation control strategies.
• Significant experience with healthcare, justice/detention, K-12 educational, publicly funded, and industrial projects, including critical environments and specialized ventilation.
• Ability to independently evaluate complex HVAC designs, troubleshoot system deficiencies, and provide technical leadership.
• Expert proficiency with Autodesk Revit and Bluebeam Revu, including hands-on design, drafting, and comprehensive drawing reviews.
• Extensive knowledge of mechanical codes, ASHRAE standards, specifications, and construction administration.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering design efforts on large, technically complex facility and infrastructure projects.
• Serve as Engineer of Record, providing technical oversight and quality control, and signing and sealing construction documents.
• Develop complex HVAC systems, including unitary equipment, chilled water and heating hot water plants, steam and condensate systems, and specialized ventilation.
• Perform and critically evaluate engineering calculations, including psychrometrics, hydronic design, equipment sizing, and system performance under varying operating conditions.
• Develop central plant configurations, pumping arrangements, equipment staging, and HVAC control sequences.
• Lead designs involving critical environments, humidity control, building pressurization, and specialized ventilation requirements.
• Conduct technical quality control reviews, identify design deficiencies, and resolve complex engineering challenges.
• Manage and mentor mid-level engineers, EITs, and designers while overseeing project deliverables.
• Perform hands-on mechanical design and drafting using Autodesk Revit when required.
• Lead interdisciplinary coordination, client communication, and construction administration, and assist with project planning and staffing.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with company match
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Wellness program with rewards for healthy activities
• Pet insurance
• Opportunities for career advancement
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• Paid parental leave
• Flexible working schedules and work-from-home options based on client needs
• Professional development support and reimbursement for registrations, certifications, and professional organization memberships

What This Job Offers

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