Co-Op (Spring 2026 - Summer 2026) - Mechanical Design Engineer

Position Summary

Watch your engineering designs come to life! As a Design Engineer at Southland Industries, you'll experience the excitement of working on design-build and design-assist projects in healthcare, education, biotech, mission critical, commercial and entertainment markets. You’ll work hand in hand with our model coordinators, estimators, and trade staff through all aspects of a project to create a design that is practical, efficient and cost effective. You’ll also have access to internal teams using the most innovative practices in virtual construction design (VDC) and computational fluid dynamics, along with just-in-time feedback from the field.

Position Details

• Performs basic deliverables and products such as calculations, drawings, and specifications related to heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems under supervision of Senior Engineers.
• Performs basic calculations for a project, such as heating/cooling loads, equipment selection and sizing, friction loss calculations, etc.
• Affords assistance in coordinating all aspects of the project design with project management, architects, and other trades through the completion phase of a project.
• Performs and checks CADD drafting work.

Qualifications

• Basic Knowledge of applicable systems design, such as HVAC, plumbing, etc.
• Basic ability to read mechanical and plumbing plans.
• Good verbal and written communications skills.
• Good computer skills, including CADD and Microsoft Office Products, such as Excel.

What you’ll gain from our Student Programs at Southland Industries:

• Increase your knowledge of HVAC design to include types of equipment utilized in the industry as well as general understanding of system operations (i.e. variable air, constant volume, refrigeration cycle.)
• Ability to communicate with all levels of management, including project management and field trades.
• Learn to read mechanical and plumbing plans.
• Strengthen your general business writing skills and gain additional experience with CADD and other products.

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 (some locations)
• Paid internship/Co-op
• Potential full-time employment opportunities

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)
• Anual bonus program based upon 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/professional development opportunities and company-paid memberships for professional associations and licenses
• Wellness benefits

About Southland Industries

As one of the nation’s largest MEP companies, Southland Industries is built on the foundation of great people. Since 1949, we have put our people first, enabling growth, professional achievement, and innovation. If you want to join a fast-paced environment where you’re engaged, challenged, and valued, apply now to join our dynamic team.

External Agency Announcement

Its Southland Industries' policy not to accept candidate submissions from recruiting agencies without an active and authorized work order. Candidate ownership can only be established after a bona fide work order is issued by a member of the Southland Industries Talent Acquisition team and the candidate is appropriately submitted through our Applicant Tracking System (ATS).