MEP Drafter

Job Summary

We are seeking for a skilled and detail-oriented MEP Drafter/Designer to join our team, focusing on residential construction projects. This person will be responsible for the design and documentation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems for single-family residences, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), townhomes, and small multifamily residential projects in California.

This role ensures all designs are fully compliant with California’s strict energy efficiency standards (Title 24, Part 6), CALGreen (Title 24, Part 11), the California Building Code, and local jurisdiction amendments. The designer produces accurate construction documents while coordinating closely with architects, structural engineers, energy consultants, and building departments to deliver practical, cost-effective, and sustainable systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Design HVAC systems including load calculations (Manual J), ductwork layout, equipment selection (heat pumps, mini-splits, furnaces, etc.), ventilation, and indoor air quality systems, ensuring compliance with Title 24 energy budgets and mandatory measures.
• Design plumbing systems including domestic water supply, sanitary waste and vent, gas piping, fixtures, and water-efficient solutions per CALGreen and California Plumbing Code.
• Design electrical systems including power distribution, lighting plans (high-efficacy lighting), panel schedules, low-voltage systems, EV charger readiness, solar photovoltaic (PV) integration, and battery storage where required by Title 24 electric-ready and solar mandates.
• Prepare detailed drawings, schematics, schedules, specifications, and Title 24 compliance documentation using Revit MEP.
• Perform or coordinate energy modeling and calculations to demonstrate compliance with the current Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards; prepare and sign CF-1R certificates of compliance as needed.
• Conduct clash detection and coordinate MEP systems with architectural and structural designs to avoid conflicts during permitting and construction.
• Incorporate sustainable and high-performance features such as heat pump technology, energy recovery ventilation, high-efficiency equipment, and water conservation measures.
• Attend design coordination meetings, respond to plan check comments from California building departments, and provide support during permitting, construction administration, and HERS rating/acceptance testing processes.
• Review shop drawings, RFIs, and field changes to ensure installed systems match Title 24-approved designs.
• Stay current with updates to Title 24, CALGreen, and local energy codes (e.g., reach codes in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Jose).

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Drafting/Design Technology, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
• 2–7 years of MEP design experience with a strong focus on California residential projects (single-family, ADUs, or low-rise multifamily).
• Deep knowledge of California codes: Title 24 Part 6 (Energy Code), CALGreen, California Building Code, California Mechanical/Plumbing/Electrical Codes.
• Proficiency in Revit MEP and AutoCAD; experience with energy compliance software (e.g., EnergyPro, CBECC-Res) is a significant plus.
• Understanding of HERS ratings, acceptance testing requirements, and coordination with certified energy analysts or HERS raters.
• Ability to produce clear, permit-ready drawings that pass California building department reviews.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and communication skills for working with architects, contractors, and plan checkers.

Preferred Qualifications (Strong Advantages)

• Experience preparing or supporting Title 24 CF-1R documentation and energy calculations.
• Knowledge of high-performance residential design (all-electric homes, heat pump systems, solar battery integration).
• Familiarity with local amendments in major California regions (Bay Area, Los Angeles, San Diego, Central Valley, etc.).
• LEED, HERS Rater, or Energy Code training/certification.
• Experience with BIM coordination and clash detection tools.