Lead Mechanical Engineer

About the role

DLB Associates is a premier engineering and consulting firm specializing in innovative, mission-critical solutions across hyperscale data centers, advanced infrastructure, and high-performance building systems. With over four decades of expertise, we partner with some of the world’s most influential companies to design and optimize environments that demand precision, scalability, and resilience. Join us and be part of a team where your voice matters, your work makes an impact, and your growth is a shared priority.

Responsibilities

• Lead Mechanical Engineering Design Activities (50%)
  • Independently perform intermediate to advanced engineering work
  • Perform intermediate to advanced mechanical design
  • Perform intermediate to advanced computations and analysis for mechanical systems and use this information to size pumps, piping and other system components
  • Independently perform and analyze load calculations and energy simulation
  • Utilize AutoCAD and Revit software to prepare drawings and visual aids
  • Prepare book or sheet specifications
  • Develop and/or review HVAC controls sequence of operations
  • Assist in proposal development including project scope, schedule and budget
  • Timely and effective management of project design team including resource forecasting and coordination
  • Identify potential project scope changes and aid in development of strategies to minimize impact and control deviations from estimated costs and project deadlines
  • Serve as primary contact for design clients and build effective, long-term client relationships
  • May direct interns/other engineering and technical staff
• Lead Pre-Construction Activities (15%)
  • Survey existing building conditions and prepare technical reports of findings
  • Collect data and other information for construction documents
  • Prepare project design and construction documents
• Lead Construction Activities (25%)
  • May lead or work as part of the engineering team and interact closely with the project management team
  • Review shop drawings and submittals
  • Review and respond to RFIs
  • Review and complete punch lists and project closeout documents
• Reporting (10%)
  • Prepare project progress reports for internal and external stakeholders
  • Update and maintain shop drawing and RFI log
  • Manage personal hours using company tools
• Technology, Digital Tools & AI-Enabled Efficiency
  • Identify opportunities and lead the strategic use of technology, digital platforms, and AI-enabled tools to enhance efficiency through workflow automation, reduced manual effort, and improved accuracy in forecasting, documentation, reporting, and quality processes
  • Support adoption of emerging technologies—including advanced analytics, data visualization tools, and digital construction management platforms—to strengthen readiness, quality assurance, and project controls
  • Collaborate with internal teams to ensure technology solutions align with DLB standards for data security, privacy, and operational integrity
  • Promote a culture that embraces innovation, continuous improvement, and the strategic use of technology to optimize performance and scalability
• Completion of assigned tasks and deliverables on time and on budget
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Requirements

• Knowledge of designing most airside and hydronic mechanical systems
• Knowledge of codes, code analysis and specifications for mechanical systems
• Knowledge of DDC controls and monitoring for HVAC systems
• Knowledge of fire alarm/protection system devices
• Knowledge of electrical systems related to HVAC systems
• Skilled at producing drawings and visual aids using AutoCAD and/or Revit
• Skilled at using MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams), along with exceptional organizational skills for file management
• Skilled in performing and analyzing load and ventilation calculations
• Skilled in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail
• Ability to work successfully in a remote environment through effective communication and organizational skills, self-motivation, proactiveness and resourcefulness in a distraction-free workspace
• Ability to select all HVAC equipment types
• Ability to create hydronic flow diagrams and specify piping accessories
• Ability to review and select DDC controls monitoring and fire alarm/protection system devices and points lists
• Ability to follow company and site safety requirements
• Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports and correspondence
• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form (technical and non-technical information)
• Ability to communicate effectively directly with clients and at times serve as primary point of client contact
• Ability to work successfully as a member of a team and independently with moderate supervision
• Ability to work under pressure and meet close deadlines
• Ability to effectively plan and delegate the work of others
• Organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

Physical Demands

The following physical demands must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Frequently required to remain in a stationary position
• Frequently moving through office, facility and other environments
• On occasion the employee may move equipment weighing up to 25 pounds

Travel / Relocation Requirements

Up to 10% travel, which may include travel to any or all 50 U.S. states. Travel is defined as physically leaving home on behalf of business activities including but not limited to client sites, meetings with other employees, meetings for business development purposes, running errands on behalf of the business, attending industry conferences, etc.

Education / Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering
• PE in related discipline
• Minimum of eight years of mechanical engineering experience

Benefits

• Choice of comprehensive medical plans (including two PPO-style plans and a HDHP with HSA option)
• Flex spending accounts (FSA)
• Dental and vision plans
• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits extended to spouse/domestic partner and dependent children up to age 26
• 401k with company match and self-directed brokerage account option
• PTO including additional paid time off during the last week of the year
• Company-paid life insurance coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
• Short- and long-term disability and AD&D coverage
• Professional development opportunities, tuition reimbursement and professional licensing assistance
• Paid parental leave after one year of employment

Pay

CO, CA, IL, NY, WA, and Washington DC residents only: In accordance with applicable law, the range provided is DLB’s reasonable estimate of the base compensation for this role. The actual amount may differ based on non-discriminatory factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and location.

The pay range for this role is $126,788 – $167,541 USD per year (Remote, United States).