Mission Critical Mechanical Designer

SmithGroup is an integrated design firm with a reputation for cultivating a top-ranked culture while pioneering award-winning innovative design solutions. We blend research, data and technology with ingenuity and a creative spirit to deliver resilient, inclusive spaces that solve our clients' greatest challenges. Our teams create exceptional design solutions for healthcare, science and technology, workplace, mixed use, higher education, cultural, waterfront, parks and open spaces, and urban environments. We are looking for passionate problem solvers who want to elevate design, push boundaries and create a more resilient future.

About the role

The Chicago office of SmithGroup is looking for a Mission Critical Mechanical Designer to join our team.

Responsibilities

• Design and document HVAC systems and controls for data centers and other mission critical facilities, including air- and water-cooled rack cooling systems and chiller plants.
• Perform engineering analyses, including heating and cooling load calculations, CFD modeling, and mechanical system assessments, to support design decisions.
• Develop design concepts, engineering documentation, BIM/Revit models, technical reports, and construction documents throughout all phases of project delivery.
• Prepare project narratives, technical reports, and presentation materials to communicate design solutions and recommendations.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and other consultants to integrate mechanical systems into complex facility designs.
• Support construction administration activities, including reviewing submittals, RFIs, and change requests, conducting site observations, and preparing record drawings.
• Coordinate project tasks with senior engineers and help guide the work of junior team members.
• Mentor and train junior staff while encouraging collaboration amongst multidisciplinary teams.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Architectural Engineering with a mechanical emphasis.
• 2 to 5 years of experience designing HVAC, plumbing, and specialty systems for data centers, mission critical facilities, or other complex building types.
• Experience designing air- and water-cooled rack cooling systems, chiller plants, and performing HVAC load analyses.
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification and eligibility to pursue professional licensure; LEED credentials are a plus.
• Proficiency with Revit, IES, Microsoft Excel, and other Microsoft Office applications, along with strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Flexible scheduling and a hybrid work environment.
• 3 weeks of PTO within your first year of employment with the option of purchasing additional time off.
• 8 paid federal holidays, plus 15 extra Fridays off.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage, wellbeing resources, paid parental leave.
• Flex spending account and voluntary insurance options.
• 401(k) program with employer matching.
• Tuition reimbursement program, one-on-one career coaching and professional development opportunities.

Pay

While we may ultimately pay more or less than a posted salary range, at the time of posting the anticipated salary range for this position is $85,000 to $93,000 annually and you are eligible for a performance-based bonus each year.