Mechanical Design Engineer (HVAC/R & Plumbing) - NDBS

Job Description

Job Description

Together We Build – Partnership, Innovation, Excellence, and Safety

At Kelso Industries, 4,000+ employees across 40+ companies work together to deliver exceptional HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, refrigeration, and electrical solutions nationwide. Join us to grow your career, make an impact, and be part of a team where innovation, excellence, and safety come first.

Recruiter Notice: We respectfully ask external recruiters and staffing agencies not to submit candidates. We only accept direct applications.

Mechanical Design Engineer – HVAC & Plumbing Systems

About NDBS

National Design Build Services is a mechanical design/build firm specializing in HVAC/R systems for commercial and light industrial facilities. Our projects include cold storage, food and beverage processing, manufacturing plants, distribution centers, healthcare, and large-scale commercial buildings.

NDBS offers a competitive compensation and benefits package along with strong opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Position Description

The Mechanical Design Engineer – HVAC & Plumbing Systems is a key technical role responsible for the design and engineering of HVAC and plumbing systems from concept through construction. This position focuses on air distribution, ventilation, refrigeration support systems, and domestic/process plumbing design in complex commercial and industrial environments.

You will work closely with field teams, project managers, and preconstruction to ensure systems are engineered for constructability, efficiency, and code compliance.

Position Information

• Position Type: Full Time
• Travel Required: 15%
• Department: Engineering
• Location: St. Louis, MO 63146 OR Remote (U.S.)

Skills & Responsibilities (including but not limited to):

Adhering to NDBS Core Values

• Safety
• We Answer Our Phones
• Always Innovating
• Collaborative Partnerships
• Reputation
• Entrepreneurship

HVAC & Plumbing Design (Primary Focus)

• Design HVAC systems including air distribution, ventilation, and temperature control for commercial and light industrial facilities
• Design plumbing systems including domestic water, sanitary waste, venting, storm drainage, and specialty piping systems
• Support refrigeration systems design for cold storage and food & beverage facilities
• Perform equipment selection (RTUs, AHUs, exhaust fans, pumps, etc.) and system layout
• Develop ductwork, piping, and plumbing layouts, risers, and schematics in Revit
• Perform load calculations and airflow analysis for HVAC systems
• Ensure designs comply with applicable mechanical, plumbing, and energy codes
• Develop sequences of operation for HVAC and mechanical systems
• Coordinate closely with field teams to ensure constructability and installation efficiency

Mechanical Systems Coordination

• Coordinate HVAC, plumbing, and refrigeration systems with structural, electrical, and architectural components
• Participate in clash detection and model coordination within Revit/BIM environments
• Support value engineering and system optimization efforts

Project Execution

• Participate in internal turnover meetings to define project scope, risks, resources, schedule, and budget
• Collaborate with preconstruction to translate bid concepts into executable designs
• Partner with operations teams to ensure alignment on system design and installation approach
• Conduct site visits to support quality control, resolve field issues, and assist with commissioning

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 5+ years of experience in HVAC and/or plumbing system design
• Experience designing systems for commercial and/or light industrial facilities (manufacturing, food processing, distribution, cold storage preferred)
• Strong understanding of HVAC systems, air distribution, and plumbing design principles
• Proficiency in Revit for mechanical system modeling
• Working knowledge of mechanical, plumbing, and energy codes
• HVAC/R experience required; refrigeration experience strongly preferred
• Experience with large-scale or industrial facilities is a plus
• Self-motivated with strong time management and organizational skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Strong communication and collaboration skills

Why Join Kelso Industries?  

Join us and be part of a team dedicated to creating efficient, sustainable, and high-performance environments that make a lasting impact across the industrial, commercial, and institutional sectors.  

Here you will experience:   

Growth Opportunities: Develop new skills, take on exciting challenges, and advance your career in meaningful ways.  

Company Culture: You'll thrive in an environment that supports your growth, values your contributions, and makes work fulfilling and enjoyable. 

Impact: Your work directly contributes to meaningful outcomes, allowing you to see the difference you make and feel a sense of purpose every day. 

Competitive Compensation & Benefits: You'll be rewarded fairly for your contributions while enjoying perks that enhance your financial security, health, and overall well-being. 

Kelso Industries celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate in any aspect of employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local employment discrimination laws where Kelso does business