Sr. Plumbing Engineer

About KZF Design

KZF Design is a multidisciplinary architecture, engineering, and planning firm proudly recognized as one of Cincinnati’s Top 100 Places to Work since 2021. We are passionate about creating spaces that serve, inspire, and strengthen communities. Join a team where your voice matters and your Work makes a difference.

We're currently seeking a Senior Plumbing Engineering to join our team. This is a key leadership role for a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) who brings deep expertise in plumbing systems and is ready to drive design excellence, mentor a team, and collaborate across disciplines to create environments that truly serve people.

• Lead the design and development of plumbing systems for a range of building types, including educational, commercial, and civic projects, from concept through construction administration.
• Serve as the firm s subject matter expert in plumbing engineering, ensuring code compliance, technical accuracy, constructability, and sustainable design integration.
• Provide strategic oversight and mentorship to plumbing engineering staff, supporting their technical development, performance, and professional growth.
• Collaborate closely with architecture, structural, electrical, and HVAC teams to ensure fully integrated and coordinated designs.
• Participate in and, when needed, lead client meetings, presentations, and engineering discussions; serve as a trusted advisor to clients and partners on plumbing system strategy.
• Review and stamp engineering drawings and specifications; oversee QA/QC processes for plumbing-related documents.
• Monitor and manage project budgets, schedules, and staffing for plumbing scope, ensuring design efficiency and adherence to project timelines.
• Stay current with industry standards, evolving technologies, and sustainability innovations; help guide KZF s plumbing practice into the future.
• Contribute to thought leadership and promote KZF s reputation through internal initiatives, publications, or speaking opportunities, where appropriate.
• Active Professional Engineer (PE) license; must be licensed in at least one U.S. state with the ability to obtain reciprocity.
• Demonstrated experience managing projects from schematic design through construction administration, including coordinating with consultants, contractors, and clients.
• Proven track record of contributing to build work in relevant markets (e.g., educational, civic, workplace, or institutional projects).
• Experience leading or significantly contributing to multi-disciplinary teams in a collaborative studio environment.
• Familiarity with the production of technical documentation (e.g., CDs, RFIs, submittals) and the ability to support or lead construction-phase services.
• Deep knowledge of plumbing system design principles, codes (IPC, UPC, NFPA, ASPE standards), and best practices.
• Familiarity with sustainable plumbing system design, including water conservation strategies, LEED, WELL, and green infrastructure.
• Proficiency with relevant software (Revit, Bluebeam, and industry-specific calculation tools like HASS or Pipe Flow Expert).
• Experience integrating plumbing systems within complex architectural and MEP coordination environments.

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering

Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor engineering personnel and coordinate across disciplines (architecture, structural, electrical, etc.).

• Strong project management skills, including budgeting, scheduling, task management, and quality control.
• Ability to collaborate with clients, consultants, and internal stakeholders from concept through construction.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving skills, a commitment to design, excellence, and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to clearly articulate technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Comfortable engaging in client meetings, presentations, and business development efforts when needed.

• Collaborative and inclusive work environment
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Commitment to design excellence and community impact
• Medical & Dental Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match
• Paid Time Off & Holidays
• Professional Development Support
• Recognition as one of Cincinnati’s Top 100 Places to Work since 2021

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and portfolio (if applicable) to

KZF Design is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.