Vice President, Mechanical Design Engineering

WSP • Boston, MA

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About The Position

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Vice President, Mechanical Engineering for our Boston, MA Property and Buildings Office. This is an exciting opportunity for a licensed Mechanical Engineer with deep expertise in HVAC system design—particularly for complex healthcare environments and mixed-use commercial Facilities—who also understands the technical, regulatory, and operational challenges of such projects. The ideal candidate will have both technical leadership and some business development experience to help grow our Property and Buildings business.
This role will actively participate in the full project cycle with a focus on complex sector work such as healthcare, pharmaceutical, life sciences, labs, Higher Education campus buildings, and mixed-use commercial projects from the design phase through final construction close‑out. Our Engineers work on high‑quality, high‑profile, local and national and projects with our practice providing design services for a variety of clients.
We are a global leader in the practice of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection engineering and related specialty services for the built environment. At WSP, we are driven by inspiring the right people to be part of our future‑focused business objectives. Our devotion to teamwork has allowed us to build communities and expand our skylines.
Here at WSP, anything is within our reach and yours as a WSP employee. Come join us and help shape the future!

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, or closely related discipline.
• 12+ years of relevant post‑education experience in mechanical and HVAC system design, including Healthcare, Lab, Higher Education, and Commercial environments.
• Engineer license required (multi‑state preferred).
• Extensive knowledge of HVAC system design, across multiple design sectors, including pressurization strategies, air‑change/ventilation requirements, humidity control, filtration standards, and specialized ventilation/exhaust systems.
• Known in the local engineering community with a developed network (an extensive network preferred).
• Proficient with HVAC engineering principles, design/bid traditional model, design/build delivery model, and application of mechanical systems to permitting and overall project‑related issues.
• Experience with HVAC planning, system selection, load calculations, general energy modeling understanding, industry standard sustainability practices, and construction administration/management.
• Well‑defined specific knowledge of relevant HVAC and mechanical construction laws, codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record‑keeping requirements.
• Well‑developed ability to perform mechanical and HVAC system computations and calculations, interpret drawings and specifications, and compare conditions to current code and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrated effectiveness at coordinating and directing others to complete tasks safely and efficiently.
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP’s health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s Degree in Business or Engineering.
• LEED AP or WELL Certification.
• At least 5+ years minimum of Project Management experience.
• Basic First Aid and Adult CPR training desired.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate, review, and approve HVAC and mechanical system design plans, ensuring data integrity and compliance with all applicable mechanical codes, and industry standards such as ASHRAE and FGI Guidelines.
• Apply high‑level mechanical and HVAC engineering techniques to identify system improvements across all project phases including concept development, preliminary design, final design, and general construction administration.
• Plan and incorporate future‑ready HVAC strategies—such as energy‑efficient system architectures, decarbonization‑ready mechanical designs, and advanced ventilation airflow concepts—to ensure safety, resiliency, and optimal performance.
• Oversee overall project HVAC system design and general consulting construction administration from project inception to completion, including air‑handling systems, chilled-water/steam systems, hydronic piping distribution, specialized exhaust, and Building Control Systems – including application of industry expected sustainability concepts.
• Oversee cross‑functional engineering teams executing project work on mid to high-level and/or multiple concurrent projects, including trade design budgets, tracking hours and expenses, task completion, technical HVAC calculations, code compliance documentation, and regulatory analysis.
• Prepare data and visualizations such as HVAC load calculations, airflow diagrams, psychrometric analyses, system schematics, reports, and other illustrations for the interpretation or leading presentation of complex mechanical design concepts.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and lead presentations that explain research, findings, system concepts, and recommendations to address HVAC design or construction issues and opportunities.
• Manage client relationships and provide key technical input on business development and opportunity/pursuit efforts, particularly related to HVAC system design innovations and general marketing.
• Develop relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including client facility staff, manufacturer/vendor partners, colleague engineering staff, construction partners, and regulatory agencies.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision‑making regarding company funds, resources, and conduct, and adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.

Benefits

• WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on a providing health and financial stability throughout the employee’s career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.

What This Job Offers

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