Refrigeration Designer II

HFA is a 100% employee-owned multidisciplinary architectural, engineering, and interior-architecture firm. We thrive in a people-first environment where every team member is personally invested in the success of our projects and clients, fostering innovative solutions and lasting partnerships.

About the role

This position supports the design and coordination of refrigeration systems, condensate drainage, and refrigeration controls for commercial and industrial projects. The ideal candidate will independently develop construction documents, perform refrigeration system and load calculations, and apply industry standards such as IMC, IPC, and ASHRAE with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Work with Engineers and/or Design Leads to communicate with clients, deliver completed construction documents, and assist in construction administration.
• Independently develop, implement, and draft construction documents for most project types or major portions, solving medium to difficult design challenges.
• Design and draft refrigeration systems, including creating isometric plans for small to medium projects.
• Apply knowledge of DX refrigeration systems (traditional refrigerants) and basic knowledge of transcritical CO₂, 2-stage, cascade, and ammonia systems.
• Understand and apply standard control systems used in commercial refrigeration.
• Apply recognized national standards (IMC, IPC, ASHRAE) to simple projects with minimal oversight.
• Use software tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, Heatcraft Box Load Calculator, and Sporlan Virtual Engineer throughout the design process.
• Understand energy codes and their impact on design.
• Train new employees on company standards, drafting techniques, and answer technical design questions for simple projects.
• Collaborate with Architects and other Engineers to develop construction documents based on client requirements, including project management and quality control.
• Provide high-level quality control on projects for final review by the Engineer or Design Lead.
• Engage in direct client contact and travel to project sites as necessary.
• Work within established budgets and contribute to the financial success of projects.
• Select and design refrigeration systems and equipment, controls, and provide box and case circuit load calculations with minimal supervision on simple systems.
• Edit specifications for small to medium-size projects.

Requirements

• Proficiency in AutoCAD and/or Revit.
• Experience with refrigeration design software such as Heatcraft Box Load Calculator and Sporlan Virtual Engineer.
• Strong understanding of DX refrigeration systems, controls, and energy code impacts.
• Basic knowledge of transcritical CO₂, 2-stage, cascade, and ammonia refrigeration systems.
• Good working knowledge of national standards (IMC, IPC, ASHRAE).
• Ability to perform refrigeration system and load calculations.
• BSME or equivalent experience.
• 0-3 staff management experience.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• Flexible work schedule.
• Professional development opportunities and learning stipends.
• Recognition and rewards for outstanding work.