Senior Piping Designer

We are seeking a Senior Pipe Designer  in the Richmond, VA area supporting design and engineering services for industrial plant facilities across the pharmaceutical, chemical, paper, pet care, and food sectors. This is a critical role for a self-sufficient, experienced designer who can take ownership of piping design from initial field data collection through final construction deliverables.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced consulting environment, enjoys direct client interaction, and is fully proficient with AVEVA E3D design platform while also leveraging AutoCAD tools when needed.

You will work independently on projects while maintaining strong coordination with multi-discipline teams to deliver high-quality, constructible designs on time and within budget.

This is starting as an (8-12) month, W-2 Hourly-paid assignment, with potential to go permanent at any time.

Starting pay is based on relevant experience and estimated to be 45-55/HR + possibility of OT.

You are expected to be available for a minimum of 40 hours per week and be able to work fairly independently.

Job description:

• Perform comprehensive field work including site surveys, field measurements, documentation of existing equipment and piping systems, and verification of as-built conditions.
• Interface directly with clients to understand project objectives, scope, constraints, and specific requirements; translate client needs into actionable design criteria.
• Develop, maintain, and deliver detailed 3D piping models using AVEVA E3D (primary platform) and AutoCAD 3D as required.
• Produce accurate 2D piping drawings (P&IDs, orthographic drawings, isometrics, pipe support details, etc.) using AutoCAD 2D for client review, approval, and construction.
• Ensure all designs comply with applicable industry codes, standards, client specifications, and good engineering practices.
• Coordinate piping designs seamlessly with all other disciplines (process, mechanical, structural, electrical, instrumentation, civil, etc.) to resolve conflicts and produce fully integrated project deliverables.
• Conduct self-checks and participate in interdisciplinary model reviews and clash detection.
• Provide construction support, respond to RFIs, and perform site visits as needed throughout the project lifecycle.
• Manage multiple project assignments simultaneously while maintaining high quality and meeting aggressive schedules.

Required:

• 10+ years of progressive piping design experience in industrial process plants, with significant exposure to pharmaceutical, chemical, food, pet care, or similar industries.
• Expert-level proficiency in AVEVA E3D (must be able to work independently and efficiently in the platform).
• Strong working knowledge of AutoCAD 3D and AutoCAD 2D .
• Proven ability to perform field measurements, equipment data collection, and client-facing activities with minimal supervision.
• Thorough understanding of piping materials, specifications, supports, stress considerations, and constructability best practices.
• Demonstrated track record of delivering complete piping design packages (3D models + 2D drawings) ready for client approval and construction.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; comfortable interfacing directly with clients and internal teams.
• Self-starter with strong time-management and organizational skills; capable of working independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Willingness and ability to travel to client sites for field work (typically short-duration trips).

Preferred:

• Associate’s degree (or higher) in Mechanical Design, Drafting Technology, or a related engineering discipline.
• Experience with AVEVA E3D Design Platform administration or advanced customization a plus.
• Familiarity with laser scanning, point cloud integration, or Brownfield revamp projects.
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards (ASME B31.3, B31.1, hygienic piping standards, etc.).