Lead Mechanical Engineer (HVAC and Plumbing)

Join our team! Our mission is BUILDING COMMUNITIES. IMPROVING LIVES. With a history spanning over 110 years, HR Green has consistently delivered on this mission, establishing alike. Each day, we work to find solutions that inspire our employees and fit our clients' needs to build trust to exceed their expectations. Our people are the heart of our success. We've earned national recognition, including being named a Great Place to Work and consistently ranking on Engineering News Record's Top 500 Design Firms in the United States and we're still growing!

Summary

We are seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to play a key role in delivering complex projects across municipal and industrial markets focusing on the design of HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems for water and wastewater infrastructure, treatment facilities, pumping stations, and process buildings.

In this role, you will take ownership of mechanical design efforts from concept through construction, working directly with clients and multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-performing, resilient infrastructure. Unlike larger, highly segmented organizations, you will have the opportunity to influence design decisions, interface directly with clients, and see the full lifecycle of your projects.

Our projects span water and wastewater treatment, conveyance, and industrial facilities—including partnerships with municipalities and within the food and beverage sector—offering both technical variety and real-world impact on community infrastructure.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the design of HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems for water and wastewater treatment facilities
• Serve as a technical authority on mechanical systems in challenging environments (explosive, corrosive, high-moisture, odor-controlled spaces, hazardous)
• Drive design from planning and concept development through final design and construction support
• Collaborate closely with process, civil, structural, and electrical engineers to deliver integrated facility designs
• Provide direct client interaction, contributing to long-term partnerships and project success
• Perform and oversee QA/QC of mechanical designs and mentor junior staff
• Make key decisions on system layouts, equipment selection, and design standards
• Support construction activities, including RFIs, submittals, and field coordination
• Contribute to proposals and help shape upcoming project opportunities

What Sets This Role Apart

• End-to-end project involvement — not siloed design work
• High visibility and ownership with both internal teams and clients
• Opportunity to work on complex treatment facilities and industrial projects, not just standard building systems
• A collaborative environment where technical input is valued and acted on
• Clear path to expanded leadership, including project management and technical specialization

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Professional Engineer (PE) license (or ability to obtain within 6 months)
• 10 years of experience in HVAC, plumbing, and/or fire protection design
• Experience with water/wastewater or industrial/process facilities strongly preferred
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and related design tools are nice, but not required
• Strong communication and technical writing skills
• Ability to lead design efforts while balancing multiple priorities
• Proficiency with engineering and office software (Bluebeam, Excel, etc.)
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as needed

Benefits

Not only does HR Green provide you with a place to grow, thrive, and enjoy your work, but we are also dedicated to delivering a comprehensive and multi-faceted benefits package. Visit our website for detailed total rewards information.

https://www.hrgreen.com/careers/total-rewards/

Compensation Range

$101,200.00 - $161,600.00

The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in accordance with the Minnesota Omnibus Labor and Industry Policy Bill Article 7 Section 2 and the Illinois Salary Transparency amendment to the Equal Pay Act of 2003. The final agreed-upon compensation is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, skills, prior work experience, competencies, and geographic work location. The total annual compensation package may consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate, after a qualifying period, in our performance and discretionary incentive bonus program(s).

HR Green is proud to be an affirmative action/ equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or other classification protected by applicable federal, state or local law.