Senior Mechanical Engineer

Job Summary

The Senior Mechanical Engineer leads the design, coordination, and delivery of complex building HVAC and thermal energy systems. This role provides technical leadership across heating, cooling, ventilation, and control systems while managing multidisciplinary design teams and working directly with clients. Candidates with extensive HVAC systems design experience or deep expertise in building energy modeling and life‑cycle cost analysis are encouraged to apply.

• Lead the design and delivery of complex HVAC and thermal energy systems across all project phases
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and quality oversight to mechanical design teams
• Design and coordinate thermal energy generation and distribution systems, including hot water, steam, chilled water, geothermal well fields, water‑source and air‑source heat pumps
• Perform and oversee engineering calculations to determine HVAC system loads using IESVE or similar tools
• Design HVAC systems including air handling, energy recovery, precision temperature and humidity control, and radiant heating and cooling
• Develop building automation and control strategies to support performance, efficiency, and occupant comfort
• Prepare mechanical master plans and support long‑term infrastructure planning
• Support sustainable design initiatives and certification efforts, including LEED, LBC, PHIUS, and WELL
• Collaborate with architects, owners, utilities, and contractors to resolve technical challenges
• Participate in client meetings, presentations, and interdisciplinary coordination efforts

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) required
• Ideally minimum of 10 years of experience designing and leading design teams for building HVAC systems
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred
• Demonstrated experience with complex HVAC and thermal energy systems (required)
• Proficiency with IESVE or similar HVAC system load calculation software required
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with comfort in client‑facing environments
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and stakeholders

Hybrid

Up to 20%

The expected base salary range for this role is $110,000 - $150,000 USD per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee‑owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high‑rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Salas O’Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability‑related needs of applicants as required by law.

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.