Associate Principal Mechanical Engineer - Aviation

Associate Principal Mechanical Engineer – Aviation Start designing tomorrow’s future!

Buro Happold has an exciting opportunity for a talented and experienced Associate Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our hybrid team in Washington, DC!

The Associate Principal Mechanical Engineer will play a pivotal role in providing technical expertise and leadership to our Building Environments Group, with a particular focus on the aviation sector. You will work closely with clients, architects, other Buro Happold Engineers, and/or design team members as part of a dedicated and skilled team. You will provide leadership across complex aviation projects while managing project delivery, client relationships, resources, and financial performance.

Here at Buro Happold, expect the exceptional.

From the projects you will work on to the clients we work with. From career-defining opportunities to an inclusive and diverse practice where we all contribute to a more equitable world. From our reputation to our relationships. Wherever your Buro Happold career takes you, it’ll be anything but ordinary.

Your next role

Join us and be surrounded by exceptional opportunities in an environment alive with innovation and possibility. Your new team has a willingness and curiosity to see possibility and potential in everything – from the most iconic projects to our everyday conversations.

As an Associate Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will take a leadership role in the delivery of complex aviation projects, providing technical oversight while managing project performance, client relationships, and multidisciplinary teams. You will also contribute to business development efforts and help strengthen our relationships and presence within the aviation sector.

Your key duties

As a key part of the team, your responsibilities will be varied, but likely to include:

Provide leadership for project teams, driving successful outcomes and ensuring project objectives are delivered.

Lead the design and technical specifications of mechanical systems, ensuring quality output.

Manage project scope, budgets, schedules, resources, and overall project delivery.

Manage project resources and deliver high-quality technical solutions.

Develop and maintain strong client relationships, identifying opportunities to support business development and continued growth.

Guide graduates and other junior engineers through their professional development.

Communicate directly with clients, architects, project partners, and other key stakeholders.

Direct multiple projects across the group, ensuring the successful implementation of engineering solutions while maintaining financial performance.

Apply an understanding of FAA requirements, airport operational constraints, and aviation industry best practices throughout project planning and delivery.

Actively contribute ideas and innovative solutions across various projects.

Ensure practices, policies, strategy, and services represent the client’s best interests and comply with current legislation and building codes.

Your skills and experience
12+ years of extensive experience in Mechanical Engineering design within the building services and construction industry.
10+ years of aviation experience.

Demonstrated experience in a senior leadership role within MEP for an architectural engineering consultancy.

Demonstrated ability to manage project scope, budgets, schedules, and resources.

Strong client relationship management and business development skills.

Strong understanding of FAA requirements, airport operational constraints, and industry best practices.

Demonstrated ability to successfully manage multiple projects, teams, and deadlines while ensuring client satisfaction.

BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering or relevant degree.

Professio…