Job brief
We are seeking a detail-oriented HVAC Design Engineer to join our high-performing MEP engineering team and lead the design of complex climate control systems. You will take ownership of mechanical design projects, from initial feasibility studies through to final commissioning and operational handover. In this role, you will collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to deliver energy-efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective HVAC solutions for our upcoming multi-million dollar developments. If you possess a deep understanding of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics and are passionate about innovative sustainable building design, we want to hear from you.
Key highlights
- Perform complex heating and cooling load calculations to accurately size HVAC equipment and distribution systems for large-scale commercial structures.
- Develop comprehensive mechanical construction documents, including detailed ductwork, piping schematics, and mechanical plans using Revit and AutoCAD MEP.
- Ensure all system designs strictly adhere to ASHRAE, SMACNA, and local building codes, as well as NFPA fire safety and life-safety standards.
- Select and specify high-efficiency boilers, chillers, AHUs, and VRF systems that align with project budgets and sustainability certification requirements.
What is a HVAC Design Engineer?
An HVAC Design Engineer is a specialized mechanical engineer who plans, designs, and optimizes heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for commercial and industrial facilities. Using advanced engineering software, an HVAC Design Engineer performs critical heat load calculations and psychrometric analysis to ensure building energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Their technical expertise is fundamental in transforming architectural schematics into functional, code-compliant mechanical systems that regulate climate control for diverse building portfolios.
What does a HVAC Design Engineer do?
A typical day for an HVAC Design Engineer involves performing precise heating and cooling load calculations using software like Carrier HAP or Trane TRACE 700 to determine equipment sizing. They develop detailed construction documentation, including ductwork layouts, piping diagrams, and mechanical equipment schedules using Revit or AutoCAD. They regularly interface with architects, electrical engineers, and plumbing contractors to resolve design conflicts, ensure compliance with ASHRAE 90.1 energy standards, and conduct field inspections to verify that installed equipment meets rigorous performance specifications.
Key responsibilities
- Perform complex heating and cooling load calculations to accurately size HVAC equipment and distribution systems for large-scale commercial structures.
- Develop comprehensive mechanical construction documents, including detailed ductwork, piping schematics, and mechanical plans using Revit and AutoCAD MEP.
- Ensure all system designs strictly adhere to ASHRAE, SMACNA, and local building codes, as well as NFPA fire safety and life-safety standards.
- Collaborate with architects and structural engineers to integrate mechanical systems into building models while minimizing footprint and maximizing energy efficiency.
- Select and specify high-efficiency boilers, chillers, AHUs, and VRF systems that align with project budgets and sustainability certification requirements like LEED.
- Conduct site visits during construction to provide engineering support, troubleshoot installation issues, and perform final equipment commissioning and testing.
- Prepare detailed technical reports, energy modeling simulations, and cost estimates for client presentations and regulatory agency permit submissions.
- Evaluate existing building mechanical systems to identify opportunities for retrofitting, energy conservation measures, and improved system reliability.
Requirements and skills
- Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited program.
- Minimum of 3–5 years of professional experience in HVAC system design and mechanical engineering for commercial, institutional, or industrial projects.
- Advanced proficiency in design software, specifically Revit MEP, AutoCAD, and specialized load calculation tools such as Trane TRACE 700 or Carrier HAP.
- In-depth knowledge of international mechanical and energy codes, including ASHRAE 90.1, IMC, and local municipal zoning requirements.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license or current progress toward PE licensure is highly preferred for senior-level responsibilities.
- Demonstrated expertise in psychrometrics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer principles applied to large-scale ventilation systems.
- Excellent technical communication skills with the ability to explain complex mechanical engineering concepts to non-technical clients and stakeholders.
- Solid understanding of sustainable building practices and experience contributing to LEED, WELL, or similar green building certification projects.
FAQs
What does an HVAC Design Engineer do?
An HVAC Design Engineer is responsible for designing the mechanical systems that control temperature, humidity, and air quality within buildings. They perform thermodynamic calculations, select mechanical equipment, and create the detailed blueprints (CAD/BIM) that contractors use to install heating, cooling, and ventilation hardware.
What software do HVAC Design Engineers use?
HVAC Design Engineers typically utilize Revit MEP for 3D building information modeling (BIM) and AutoCAD for 2D construction documentation. For performance analysis, they use specialized tools such as Trane TRACE 700, Carrier HAP, or IESVE to perform energy modeling and calculate heating and cooling loads.
How do you become an HVAC Design Engineer?
To become an HVAC Design Engineer, you typically need a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Many employers look for candidates who have successfully completed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and have gained hands-on experience with mechanical system design and building codes under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer (PE).
Why is an HVAC Design Engineer important for new construction?
An HVAC Design Engineer is critical because they ensure that a building is safe, energy-efficient, and comfortable for occupants. Their design choices directly impact a building's operational costs, carbon footprint, and adherence to complex life-safety codes, making them a vital link between architectural concepts and functional construction.