HVAC Project Manager

Job Description

Title: Mechanical Project Manager (HVAC)


Location: Downers Grove, IL (5 days a week in office)


Hire Type: Direct Hire


Shift/Hours : 1st, 8am - 5pm (Mon-Fri)


Base Salary: $84,000 - $135,000 (based on experience)


Benefits: Industry-leading Performance Bonus, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Traditional and Roth 401(k), Tuition Reimbursement, Scholarship Program for Children, 1-month Paid Sabbatical with Travel Stipend, 1-week Paid Volunteer Leave, and Medical/Dental/Vision Coverage.

About the Opportunity: Sterling Engineering's client is a team of engineers and project managers who are experts at tackling complex projects and installations through a comprehensive design/build approach. Consistently recognized as a "Best Place to Work," this organization leverages streamlined communication and advanced technologies to find optimized, custom solutions for their clients. They are committed to a culture of diversity and inclusion, treating people fairly and doing the right thing for both their associates and their customers.

Job Duties:

• Manage all managerial and administrative aspects of turn-key mechanical and process piping projects, including estimating, scheduling, and quality control.
• Gather project requirements directly from clients and facilitate the preparation of comprehensive working drawings.
• Prepare and submit detailed project proposals independently and alongside senior management.
• Lead client meetings to present proposals and address technical questions regarding cost, design, and scope.
• Ensure accurate project estimates that align perfectly with contracted scopes of work.
• Manage the full lifecycle of RFIs, change orders, and submittals for all assigned projects.
• Track internal project accounting requirements and monitor the cost status of ongoing mechanical projects.
• Plan, coordinate, and oversee field operations to ensure effective team performance and safety.
• Address and resolve project close-out requirements and any warranty issues as they arise.
• Maintain high standards of progress reporting and billing to ensure transparency for stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• 2-7+ years of experience in HVAC project management; 3-5 years of estimating experience preferred.
• Previous experience leading design/build projects is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated competency in effective negotiation and conflict resolution.
• Ability to analyze complex data, think critically, and solve technical problems in the field.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to engage with internal staff and external stakeholders.
• Flexibility to travel to client sites nationwide as required for project oversight.
• Commitment to a safety-first culture and high-quality construction standards.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Meet Your Recruiter

Mike Schmitz
Technical Recruiter

If you're a skilled professional in engineering, manufacturing, or life sciences and you're exploring your next career move-I'm here to help.


I'm a Senior Technical Recruiter and Team Leader who's passionate about connecting great people with great companies. I specialize in placing candidates in roles within product, equipment, food/beverage, and pharmaceutical manufacturing, and I work closely with some of the most respected employers in the industry.

My approach is consultative, transparent, and relationship-driven. I'll take the time to understand your goals, skills, and preferences-and then help you navigate the search process with confidence. From resume tips and interview prep to timely feedback and honest communication, my goal is to make your job search feel less stressful and more strategic.

I've worked with professionals at all levels-from early career to senior leadership-and I'm always looking to expand my network of talented candidates. Whether you're actively on the market or just curious about what's out there, I'd love to connect.

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Connect on LinkedIn


About Downers Grove, IL

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore our job opportunities in the vibrant area surrounding Downers Grove, Illinois. Nestled in the heart of the Prairie State, this region offers a perfect blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. Home to lush parks like Lyman Woods and the captivating Morton Arboretum, as well as renowned art galleries like the Cleve Carney Museum of Art, there is no shortage of inspiration here. Indulge in local delicacies like deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, then catch a show at the historic Tivoli Theatre. With proximity to professional sports teams like the Chicago Bulls and White Sox, as well as easy access to downtown Chicago's bustling cultural scene, endless opportunities for growth and success await you in the Downers Grove area. Explore our listings today and discover your next career adventure!