Mechanical Design Engineer

About Us

John W. Danforth Company, one of the largest mechanical contractors in the Northeast, is growing! We believe our people are our greatest asset and invest in training, career development, employee engagement, and team support. We are committed to delivering industry-leading experiences for our customers across commercial and industrial HVAC, plumbing, refrigeration, advanced technology manufacturing, process piping, fabrication, mission-critical environments, and energy performance projects, backed by comprehensive service maintenance and repair.

Job Summary

As a Design Engineer at John W. Danforth Company, you will be responsible for developing innovative and practical mechanical system designs that support our customers' operational, energy, and facility goals. Working closely with sales, project management, field operations, and customers, you will transform concepts into engineered solutions that are efficient, code-compliant, and cost-effective. This role requires a combination of technical expertise, creativity, and collaboration to successfully deliver projects from the initial concept through construction and project completion.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual mechanical system designs to support budgeting, sales presentations, and project planning.
• Design HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, energy, and facility systems from concept through construction document delivery.
• Perform engineering analyses, calculations, system evaluations, equipment selection, and layout development.
• Coordinate design activities and quality assurance processes to ensure accurate and complete project documentation.
• Conduct site evaluations and collaborate with customers to develop tailored engineering solutions.
• Provide technical support during preconstruction, value engineering, and design-assist activities.
• Work closely with project managers and field teams to support project execution and resolve design-related issues.
• Review submittals and respond to Requests for Information (RFIs) throughout project construction.
• Conduct site visits as needed to verify installation compliance and assist with project closeout activities.
• Coordinate with vendors, subcontractors, consulting engineers, and other project stakeholders.
• Participate in client meetings, walkthroughs, and technical presentations.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2+ years of experience with HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, energy, or related mechanical systems.
• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Science, or a related discipline preferred; equivalent field experience will be considered.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and Project.
• Experience with AutoCAD required; BIM/Revit experience preferred.
• Knowledge of load calculation software such as Carrier HAP and psychrometric analysis.
• Strong understanding of mechanical system design principles, applicable codes, and industry best practices.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Self-starter with a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

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Equal Opportunity Employer

As a leading provider of mechanical and electrical construction, facilities services, and energy infrastructure, we offer employees a competitive salary and benefits package and we are always looking for individuals with the talent and skills required to contribute to our continued growth and success. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.

Geographic Disclosure

Compensation Range : $80,000-$100,000

Other Compensation : Bonus eligible

Benefits : We are committed to providing employees a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with health savings and flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability, a 401(k) Savings Plan, and an employee assistance program.