Sr. Mechanical Engineer – Hydronic & Central Utility Systems - NC
About The Position
The Mechanical Engineer will lead the design, analysis, and engineering of hydronic systems and central utility plant equipment—including chillers, boilers, pumping systems, cooling towers, air houses, and thermal distribution networks. The role also requires competency in fabrication and assembly methods, as well as an understanding of structural engineering principles to support equipment design, installation, and integration. You will collaborate with project managers, fabrication teams, field installers, and clients to deliver high-quality engineered solutions from concept through commissioning.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
- Strong knowledge of hydronic systems, thermal-fluid science, and thermodynamics.
- Experience with central utility plants and major mechanical equipment.
- Familiarity with fabrication methods (welding, forming, fitting) and assembly techniques for mechanical systems.
- Working understanding of structural engineering principles relevant to mechanical equipment and support structures.
- Proficiency with engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, SolidWorks, Pipe-Flo, or equivalent).
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Nice To Haves
- Professional Engineer (PE) or EIT certification.
- Experience in industrial facilities, HVAC plants, or mechanical contracting environments.
- Knowledge of controls, automation, and plant instrumentation.
- Background in project management or field engineering.
Responsibilities
- Design and analyze hydronic heating and cooling systems, including chilled water, hot water, steam, and condenser water loops.
- Develop engineering documentation: P&IDs, equipment specifications, load calculations, and system schematics.
- Size and select major equipment including chillers, boilers, pumps, heat exchangers, cooling towers, and AHUs/air houses.
- Perform thermodynamic and energy balance calculations for system optimization and performance verification.
- Provide engineering support for central utility plants (CUPs), expansions, and retrofits.
- Work with fabrication shops to translate engineering designs into buildable assemblies.
- Author or review fabrication drawings, weld details, materials specifications, and quality control requirements.
- Ensure assemblies meet required tolerances, structural loads, thermal expansion allowances, and installation constraints.
- Support field teams during assembly, installation, pressure testing, and startup.
- Apply structural engineering fundamentals for assessing equipment supports, skids, platforms, frames, anchors, and pipe supports.
- Collaborate with structural engineers on load analysis, lifting plans, rigging points, and seismic/wind considerations.
- Review or create 2D/3D models ensuring structural and mechanical compatibility.
- Participate in client meetings, site evaluations, and design reviews.
- Prepare and present technical reports, calculations, and engineering recommendations.
- Support commissioning activities and troubleshoot mechanical systems during startup.
- Ensure all engineering work complies with relevant codes, standards, and regulations (ASME, ASHRAE, SMACNA, etc.).
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Number of Employees
11-50 employees
