Director of Mechanical Engineering

Director of Mechanical Engineering: Washington, DC (DMV Area)

Job Description

OTJ is looking for a Director of Mechanical Engineer who is PE certified. This role focuses on the planning, design, and execution of mechanical systems for a wide range of building and infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise, strong leadership experience, and a collaborative mindset well-suited to multidisciplinary AEC environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and grow the mechanical engineering department, including staffing plans, organizational structure, and succession planning.
• Establish and enforce mechanical engineering standards, best practices, and quality control/quality assurance procedures
• Partner with executive leadership to define short- and long-term strategic goals for the mechanical discipline
• Represent the mechanical engineering practice internally and externally, including client meetings, presentations, and industry events
• Provide high-level technical leadership and peer review for complex mechanical designs and system solutions
• Serve as Engineer of Record (EOR) for mechanical design projects, including sealing and signing construction documents
• Design and document mechanical systems for commercial, institutional, healthcare, higher education, mixed-use, and/or government facilities
• Develop HVAC systems, central plant systems, plumbing interfaces, energy-efficient and sustainable design solutions, and specialized mechanical systems as required by project type
• Prepare and review drawings, specifications, calculations, basis-of-design narratives, and technical reports
• Coordinate closely with architects; structural, civil, electrical, and plumbing/fire protection engineering teams; and other consultants throughout design development and construction
• Ensure compliance with all applicable codes and standards (IMC, IBC, ASHRAE, IECC, NFPA, local AHJs)
• Resolve complex technical challenges and project risk issues across multiple concurrent projects
• Oversee mechanical engineering work across multiple markets (e.g., commercial, institutional, healthcare, federal, infrastructure)
• Support project planning, fee development, scope definition, and resource allocation for mechanical services
• Ensure mechanical scopes are delivered on schedule and within budget
• Act as a senior technical advisor and client liaison to support project success, repeat work, and long-term client relationships
• Collaborate with leadership and business development teams on proposals, interviews, and pursuits
• Identify and help develop new market opportunities, services, technologies, and delivery methods
• Support the financial performance of the mechanical department, including utilization, staffing efficiency, and profitability
• Perform other duties as assigned
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering
• 10 years of progressive mechanical engineering experience, including demonstrated leadership responsibility
• Active PE license in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC
• Strong working knowledge of HVAC and mechanical systems design, energy codes, and industry standards (ASHRAE, IMC, IBC, IECC, NFPA)
• Proven experience overseeing complex mechanical systems and multidisciplinary design projects
• In-depth understanding of permitting processes and coordination with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs)
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams, manage competing priorities, and influence at the executive level
• Excellent communication, leadership, and client-facing skills
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and mechanical engineering calculation and analysis tools
• Experience working within BIM environments and coordinating across multidisciplinary design teams
  
  

About OTJ

OTJ is a premier architecture and design firm with offices in Washington, D.C., New York City, Miami, San Francisco, Boston, Dallas, and Chicago. For 35 years we have experienced an unparalleled and uninterrupted growth trajectory fueled by the design of award-winning projects for leading organizations across North America. We pride ourselves on our diverse and inclusive team as we continue our dynamic growth. We are now poised to further expand our reach and believe your skills and experience will be an asset to the ongoing success of our team. We are confident that OTJ will offer you the opportunity to do your best, most creative work in a dynamic atmosphere that welcomes fresh ideas.

Application

Qualified candidates should send resume to HR@otj.com. Email must include number of years of mechanical engineering experience and if authorized to work in the US without sponsorship (Bonafide qualification for openings).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

OTJ is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.