Entry-level Plumbing Designer

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future. Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

About Us

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

About the Role

The Plumbing Designer supports the planning, design, and production of plumbing systems for a variety of building projects, including educational facilities, healthcare environments, military installations, hospitality venues, multifamily residential developments, and commercial buildings. Working under the direction of senior engineers and project managers, this role develops design documents utilizing Revit and AutoCAD while ensuring compliance with applicable codes, standards, and client requirements.

Responsibilities

• Prepare plumbing system layouts and construction documents for various building types.
• Assist with the design of domestic water, sanitary waste and vent, storm drainage, natural gas, and specialty plumbing systems.
• Perform engineering calculations related to fixture counts, pipe sizing, storm drainage, and equipment selection.
• Assist in the selection and specification of plumbing equipment, including water heaters, booster pumps, sump pumps, and sewage ejectors.
• Develop and maintain Revit models and coordinate with architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical disciplines.
• Research and apply applicable California Plumbing Code, local jurisdiction requirements, and industry standards.
• Participate in site surveys and field investigations to verify existing conditions.
• Support construction administration activities, including review of submittals, RFIs, and construction questions.
• Collaborate with project teams to meet project schedules, budgets, and quality expectations.
• Assist with preparing technical reports, specifications, and design documentation.

Skills

• Working knowledge of plumbing system design principles and building construction.
• Familiarity with California Plumbing Code and applicable industry standards.
• Strong proficiency in Revit MEP and AutoCAD.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines.
• Willingness to learn and develop technical expertise through mentorship and training.

Requirements

• 2-3 years of experience in plumbing design for commercial, institutional, healthcare, multifamily, or similar building projects.
• Associate's degree, technical certification, or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred.
• Proficiency with Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Office.
• Familiarity with BIM coordination processes preferred.
• EIT certification or progress toward EIT is a plus.
• Experience with California projects and code requirements preferred.

Additional Information

• Travel: Up to 10% for site visits, field investigations, and project meetings.
• Location: Vista, CA

Pay

The expected compensation for this role is $36 – 41 USD per hour. Actual compensation will be determined based on skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

Benefits

• Performance-based bonuses
• Equity participation
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
• Professional development support