Design Engineer

About the role

As a Design Engineer in Helm’s mechanical division, you will provide engineering consulting, technical oversight, and project coordination for building mechanical systems—HVAC, plumbing, and piping—across new construction and remodel projects in K-12 schools, hospitals, high-rise buildings, and other commercial facilities. This role is based in our Freeport, IL office and spans conceptual planning through construction and commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Develop and review mechanical system designs (HVAC, ventilation, piping, and associated building systems) from conceptual design through construction documentation.
• Perform engineering calculations, equipment selection, load analyses, ventilation studies, and system sizing to ensure compliance with project requirements and applicable codes.
• Provide technical review, approval, and risk assessment for equipment replacements, retrofit projects, and service-related engineering requests.
• Lead coordination efforts between engineering, construction, operations, service, and VDC (BIM) teams to resolve design conflicts and support project execution.
• Review and develop structural support requirements for mechanical systems, including pipe supports, supplemental steel, equipment supports, hanger systems, and point load evaluations.
• Evaluate constructability, installation requirements, and field conditions to develop practical engineering solutions that support project schedules and budgets.
• Prepare and review permit drawings, construction documents, submittals, delegated design packages, equipment schedules, and installation details.
• Participate in project planning meetings, design reviews, coordination meetings, and stakeholder discussions while documenting action items and facilitating issue resolution.
• Support field operations through engineering consultation, troubleshooting, technical interpretation, and resolution of installation challenges.
• Serve as a technical subject matter expert for mechanical systems, code compliance, constructability reviews, and engineering best practices.
• Mentor project engineers, designers, and technical staff while promoting standardization, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in an ABET-accredited Architectural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
• Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification preferred; Professional Engineer (PE) license highly desired.
• Experience designing or working with HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, and building support systems for commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities.
• Working knowledge of applicable mechanical, energy, building, and safety codes and standards.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while maintaining quality, schedule, and budget expectations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with clients, contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency with engineering design software, Autodesk CAD/BIM platforms, HVAC load calculation software, and Microsoft Office applications.

Pay

Range: $70,000–$85,000. Final determination is based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Benefits

• 401K plan with matching contributions.
• Health, vision, and dental insurance.
• Paid Time Off.
• Health Savings Account, Health Reimbursement Account, and Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Health wellness programs.