Principal Mechanical Engineer

Principal Mechanical EngineerValdes Architecture & Engineering is seeking an accomplished Principal Mechanical Engineer to provide senior technical leadership across municipal infrastructure, water and wastewater, building systems, industrial process facilities, utility and power infrastructure, and life sciences markets.The Principal Mechanical Engineer is one of the most senior technical positions within the Mechanical Engineering Department and serves as a technical authority, mentor, and trusted advisor to clients and project teams. This individual leads complex mechanical engineering assignments, establishes technical direction, resolves difficult or non-routine engineering problems, provides senior-level quality review, and develops the technical capabilities of other engineers.The position requires independent engineering judgment and technical leadership from planning and conceptual design through construction and commissioning.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical LeadershipServe as a technical authority for complex mechanical engineering projects and design challengesEstablish design criteria and technical direction for mechanical systems and equipmentApply advanced engineering judgment to resolve complex, unusual, or non-routine engineering problemsEvaluate alternative systems and equipment based on performance, reliability, constructability, maintainability, lifecycle cost, and client requirementsIdentify technical risks and develop practical, defensible engineering solutionsProvide technical consultation to clients and multidisciplinary project teamsServe as Engineer of Record or responsible mechanical engineer when appropriateProvide technical leadership in one or more areas including:HVAC, plumbing, and building utility systemsProcess and utility pipingPumping systemsSteam, condensate, heating, and cooling water systemsCompressed air, gas, and fuel systemsPumps, compressors, heat exchangers, tanks, vessels, and packaged equipmentPiping layouts, stress analysis, supports, and equipment interfacesProject Leadership & DeliveryServe as Mechanical Lead on large, technically complex, and multidisciplinary projectsLead mechanical engineering from planning and conceptual design through construction and commissioningDevelop and review project scopes, design criteria, engineering estimates, schedules, and budgetsProvide technical direction to engineers and designers and coordinate mechanical interfaces with other disciplinesReview and approve calculations, specifications, drawings, equipment selections, data sheets, reports, and construction documentsIdentify technical, scope, schedule, and budget risks and work with Project Management to resolve themEnsure deliverables meet project requirements, applicable codes, client standards, and Valdes quality expectationsField & Construction SupportLead field investigations and assessments of existing mechanical systemsProvide senior-level engineering judgment in resolving field conditions, construction issues, and equipment problemsReview RFIs, submittals, shop drawings, and proposed field modificationsParticipate in equipment inspections, factory testing, startup, and commissioningEnsure designs consider constructability, maintainability, accessibility, operations, and personnel safetyEngineering Standards, Quality & MentorshipProvide senior-level QA/QC review of mechanical engineering deliverables, including the underlying design basis and technical approachHelp develop and improve department standards, specifications, procedures, calculation methods, and design practicesPromote consistent application of sound engineering practices and lessons learnedMentor engineers and designers and help develop future technical leadersProvide technical guidance while allowing developing engineers appropriate ownership of their workShare technical knowledge and provide clear, constructive technical feedbackClient Engagement & Business DevelopmentServe as a trusted technical advisor to clientsParticipate in client meetings, planning sessions, presentations, and technical discussionsSupport proposals, project pursuits, scope development, technical approaches, and fee developmentIdentify opportunities where Valdes' mechanical engineering capabilities can address client needsDevelop and maintain strong technical relationships with clientsTechnical CompetenciesThe successful candidate will demonstrate advanced knowledge of mechanical engineering fundamentals and significant technical depth in one or more mechanical engineering areas.Experience may include:Municipal infrastructure and water/wastewaterBuilding mechanical systemsPower generation and energyIndustrial and central utility systemsIndustrial and process facilitiesMechanical equipment and piping systemsPharmaceutical and life sciences facilitiesThe candidate shall demonstrate:Advanced ability to develop and review mechanical calculations, specifications, data sheets, equipment selections, reports, and construction documentsStrong knowledge of applicable codes and standards including ASME, ASHRAE, AWWA, NFPA, API, IMC, IPC, IBC, and applicable state and local requirementsAbility to direct and review work using applicable engineering analysis and design softwareWorking knowledge of AutoCAD and Revit sufficient to direct and review design workAbility to communicate complex engineering issues clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholdersQualificationsRequiredBachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institutionActive Professional Engineer (PE) license12+ years of progressively responsible mechanical engineering experienceDemonstrated experience leading complex mechanical engineering assignments and multidisciplinary projectsDemonstrated ability to establish technical direction and independently resolve complex engineering problemsDemonstrated ability to review and approve mechanical engineering calculations, specifications, drawings, equipment selections, and technical deliverablesExperience mentoring and providing technical direction to engineers and designersStrong client-facing communication skillsAbility and willingness to travel to client and project sites as requiredMust possess exceptional interpersonal and organizational skillsMust be able to work in the US without sponsorship now or in the futurePreferredExperience serving as Engineer of Record or responsible Mechanical EngineerExperience across multiple mechanical engineering markets or system typesExperience with rehabilitation and modernization of existing facilitiesExperience developing engineering standards and QA/QC practicesExperience supporting proposals, project pursuits, and client developmentWhat Success Looks LikeA successful Principal Mechanical Engineer is recognized as a trusted technical authority who can lead the department's most challenging mechanical engineering assignments while improving the capabilities of the engineers around them.The Principal Engineer provides sound technical direction when solutions are not obvious, identifies and manages engineering risk, develops practical and defensible solutions, and strengthens the department through technical leadership, mentorship, quality, and client confidence.$145,000 - $185,000 a year Salaries for all positions are based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, total years of experience in the industry, education, skills, and qualifications. Compensation may vary depending on the candidate's individual background and expertise. Salaries are subject to fluctuation outside of the given range. The indicated range is not a commitment and meant as a guideline. All compensation, exempt or non-exempt status, and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.