Principal Mechanical Engineer

Job Title: Principal Mechanical Engineer

Job Description

The Principal Mechanical Engineer will serve as a technical leader and Engineer of Record (EOR) for mechanical systems on complex data center projects. This individual will be responsible for leading design efforts, overseeing project delivery, and mentoring junior engineers. The role requires deep technical knowledge of mission-critical HVAC, cooling, and mechanical infrastructure systems, as well as a proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams through design, coordination, and construction phases.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Engineer of Record (EOR) for mechanical design on data center projects.
• Lead the design and engineering of HVAC, chilled water, and other mission-critical cooling systems.
• Develop, review, and approve technical drawings, specifications, and submittals.
• Coordinate with internal design teams and external stakeholders including clients, architects, and contractors.
• Oversee mechanical design from concept through construction, ensuring quality, accuracy, and compliance with codes and standards.
• Conduct system analyses, equipment selections, and energy efficiency evaluations.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior and mid-level engineers.
• Manage project budgets, schedules, and deliverables to ensure on-time, high-quality outcomes.
• Review and seal design documents as required under state licensure.
• Support business development efforts through proposal writing, client presentations, and technical input.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering.
• Active PE License with experience stamping as Engineer of Record.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in data center MEP or mission-critical facilities.
• Proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD.
• Experience designing HVAC systems, liquid cooling, plumbing, and piping.
• In-depth knowledge of ASHRAE standards and building codes.
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering required.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Preferred M.S. in Mechanical Engineering.
• Experience with mission-critical projects.
• Proficiency in Bluebeam.
• Experience working independently, managing priorities, and providing mentorship.
• LEED AP BD C certification is a plus.

Work Environment

The position allows for 100% remote work unless local to Phoenix, AZ or Austin, TX, where a hybrid work schedule is available. The new office in Tempe, AZ, offers a hotel-like feel. Employment is open to candidates in approved states such as AL, AR, AZ, FL, GA, IN, MI, MO, NV, OK, SC, TX, WA, WV, or UT. Candidates in states like NY, CA, CO, NJ, WY must be willing to relocate. The role reports to the Principal Engineer and Senior VP of Operations. Benefits include 100% premiums paid for medical, dental, and vision for employees and families, a 4% 401(k) match, 32 days off including holiday, PTO, and sick time, and annual professional development budgets. The company culture encourages thinking like owners and having a voice in a dynamic, startup-like environment.

This is a Permanent position based out of Phoenix, AZ.

The pay range for this position is $180000.00 - $200000.00/yr.

100% premiums paid for medical, dental, vision for employee family 4% 401(k) match 32 days off - holiday, PTO, and sick time annual professional development budgets for licensure and certifications

This is a fully remote position.

This position is anticipated to close on Dec 22, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $180,000 - $200,000