Co-Op (Fall Semester 2026 - Spring Semester 2027) - Mechanical Design Engineer

Position Summary

Watch your engineering designs come to life! As a Design Engineer at Southland Industries, you’ll work on design‑build and design‑assist projects in healthcare, education, biotech, mission‑critical, commercial, and entertainment markets. You’ll collaborate with model coordinators, estimators, and trade staff through all project phases to create practical, efficient, and cost‑effective designs, while accessing internal teams using innovative virtual construction design (VDC) and computational fluid dynamics, plus just‑in‑time field feedback.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic deliverables such as calculations, drawings, and specifications for heating, ventilating, and air‑conditioning (HVAC) systems under supervision of Senior Engineers.
• Conduct project calculations including heating/cooling loads, equipment selection and sizing, and friction loss calculations.
• Assist in coordinating all aspects of project design with project management, architects, and other trades through the completion phase.
• Perform and check CADD drafting work.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of applicable systems design, such as HVAC and plumbing.
• Ability to read mechanical and plumbing plans.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with CADD and Microsoft Office products, especially Excel.

What You’ll Gain

• Increased knowledge of HVAC design, including equipment types and system operations (e.g., variable air, constant volume, refrigeration cycle).
• Experience communicating with all levels of management, including project management and field trades.
• Improved ability to read mechanical and plumbing plans.
• Strengthened business writing skills and additional experience with CADD and related software.

Internship/Co‑op Program Benefits

• Hands‑on classroom and on‑the‑job experience in your specific role.
• Opportunity to work side by side with company leaders.
• Socially distant group activities and team events.
• Paid housing (available at some locations).
• Paid internship/co‑op compensation.
• Potential full‑time employment opportunities after completion.

Full‑time Employee Benefits

• 401(k) plan with 50 % company match (no cap) and immediate 100 % vesting.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (100 % paid for employee).
• Annual bonus program based on performance, achievement, and company profitability.
• Term life, AD&D insurance, and voluntary life insurance.
• Disability income protection insurance.
• Pre‑tax flexible spending plans (health and dependent care).
• Paid parental leave.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and personal time.
• Training and professional development opportunities, including company‑paid memberships for professional associations and licenses.
• Wellness benefits.

About Southland Industries

Southland Industries is one of the nation’s largest MEP companies, founded in 1949 and built on the foundation of great people. As a 100 % employee‑owned firm, we prioritize people, safety, innovation, collaboration, integrity, accountability, and sustainability. We offer a fast‑paced environment where employees are engaged, challenged, and valued.

Pay

For Maryland‑based internship roles, the pay rate is $26.00 per hour, plus an annual incentive, benefits, and retirement program as outlined above.