Design Engineer

Position Overview

Are you ready to launch your career in the construction industry with Helm? As a Design Engineer, you will be responsible for providing engineering consulting, technical oversight, and project coordination for building mechanical systems from conceptual planning through construction and commissioning. You will act as a multidisciplinary resource supporting HVAC design, mechanical infrastructure, constructability reviews, and field implementation. If you thrive in a dynamic environment where adaptability and teamwork are key, Helm offers the perfect opportunity for you to grow and succeed.


This position is for our mechanical division which is responsible for the HVAC, Plumbing, and Piping scopes of work for new construction projects as well as remodel work in buildings such as K-12 schools, hospitals and associated healthcare buildings, high-rise buildings, and other commercial building types. This role is located in our Freeport, IL office.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and review mechanical system designs, including HVAC, ventilation, piping, and associated building systems from conceptual design through construction documentation.
• Perform engineering calculations, equipment selection, load analyses, ventilation studies, and system sizing to ensure compliance with project requirements and applicable codes and standards.
• Provide technical review, approval, and risk assessment for equipment replacements, retrofit projects, and service-related engineering requests.
• Lead coordination efforts between engineering, construction, operations, service, and VDC (BIM) teams to resolve design conflicts and support project execution.
• Review and develop structural support requirements for mechanical systems, including pipe supports, supplemental steel, equipment supports, hanger systems, and point load evaluations.
• Evaluate constructability, installation requirements, and field conditions to develop practical engineering solutions that support project schedules and budgets.
• Prepare and review permit drawings, construction documents, submittals, delegated design packages, equipment schedules, and installation details.
• Participate in project planning meetings, design reviews, coordination meetings, and stakeholder discussions while documenting action items and facilitating issue resolution.
• Support field operations through engineering consultation, troubleshooting, technical interpretation, and resolution of installation challenges.
• Serve as a technical subject matter expert for mechanical systems, code compliance, constructability reviews, and engineering best practices.
• Mentor project engineers, designers, and technical staff while promoting standardization, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in an ABET accredited Architectural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline.
• Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification preferred, Professional Engineer (PE) license highly desired
• Experience designing or working with HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, and building support systems for commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities.
• Working knowledge of applicable mechanical, energy, building, and safety codes and standards.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while maintaining quality, schedule, and budget expectations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with clients, contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency with engineering design software, Autodesk CAD/BIM platforms, HVAC load calculation software and Microsoft Office applications.

Salary & Benefits

Range: $70,000-$85,000


Final determination of a successful candidate's pay is based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience. Helm provides a competitive compensation package that recognizes an individual's experience and qualifications combined with a benefits package to meet your needs.


As a valued member of the Helm team, your benefits package will include:

• 401K plan with discretionary company matching contributions.
• Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance.
• Paid Time Off.
• Health Savings Account (for high deductible plan participants), Health Reimbursement Account (HRA), and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• Health Wellness Programs

Join Helm and become part of our supportive, family-like culture where hard work is recognized and rewarded. Your contributions will make a meaningful impact on our projects, ensuring every day you go home knowing you've played a vital role in our success. If you're ready to embark on a fulfilling career journey, apply now to join our dedicated team at Helm.