Mehanical Department Leader

Mechanical Department Leader

Location: Washington, DC / Baltimore, MD Area (Hybrid)

Salary Range: $132,000 – $207,000 annually (commensurate with experience)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Department Leader to provide technical leadership and operational oversight for a growing engineering team. This role is responsible for managing team performance, ensuring high-quality technical deliverables, and supporting project execution across a variety of building systems projects.

The ideal candidate brings a strong background in mechanical engineering within the AEC consulting environment, along with proven leadership experience and a commitment to developing high-performing teams.

Key Responsibilities

Department Leadership

• Lead and manage the mechanical engineering department, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture
• Oversee staffing, workload distribution, and team development
• Mentor and coach team members, including senior engineers and team leads
• Conduct performance evaluations and support professional growth initiatives
• Coordinate with leadership on hiring needs and resource planning

Technical Oversight

• Provide subject matter expertise in mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection systems
• Establish and maintain design standards, technical resources, and best practices
• Review engineering deliverables for accuracy, quality, and compliance
• Stay current with applicable codes, regulations, and industry trends

Project Support

• Support project teams to ensure successful delivery related to scope, schedule, budget, and quality
• Participate in early-phase design and complex project discussions as the mechanical expert
• Guide project managers and team leads in resolving technical challenges

Quality Assurance / Quality Control

• Serve as the final authority on QA/QC for all mechanical deliverables
• Develop and improve internal quality control processes
• Ensure coordination across disciplines and adherence to client and regulatory requirements

Operational and Organizational Development

• Contribute to strategic planning and departmental process improvements
• Support training programs, onboarding, and knowledge sharing initiatives
• Participate in recruiting and interviewing efforts
• Represent the organization in client meetings, presentations, and industry events

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE)
• Minimum 14 years of experience in AEC consulting or MEP engineering
• Advanced proficiency in Revit and design documentation
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing engineering teams

Preferred

• Experience managing multiple teams or department-level operations
• Background in large-scale or complex commercial projects
• Experience developing internal standards and technical processes

Skills and Competencies

• Strong leadership and team development capabilities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Advanced problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality

Work Environment and Requirements

• Hybrid work schedule with a minimum of two days per week in-office
• Occasional travel to project sites and client locations
• Ability to perform site visits, including navigating active construction environments
• Prolonged periods of computer-based work

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Paid parental leave
• Competitive paid time off and professional development support