We are seeking a highly experienced and technically proficient Chief Mechanical Engineer – HVAC and Environmental Control to lead the design, optimization, and lifecycle management of advanced mechanical systems in high-performance environments. This role is central to ensuring optimal air quality, thermal comfort, regulatory compliance, and energy efficiency across mission-critical facilities.
This position is ideal for a mechanical engineering leader with deep expertise in HVAC design, building science, and environmental controls for cleanrooms, laboratories, hospitals, semiconductor fabs, or other regulated and sensitive facilities.
Serve as the subject matter expert for HVAC and environmental control systems across all company facilities.
Lead the development of mechanical engineering standards, specifications, and design guidelines.
Guide design teams and consultants on system architecture, equipment selection, airflow modeling, and control strategies.
Oversee the engineering and design of HVAC systems for complex spaces, including cleanrooms, data centers, laboratories, and critical manufacturing environments.
Ensure integration of systems such as chillers, AHUs, fans, filtration units (HEPA/ULPA), dehumidifiers, and air distribution components.
Apply advanced knowledge of psychrometrics, air exchange rates, pressure zoning, and thermal loads.
Drive continuous improvement in HVAC system performance, including energy efficiency, environmental stability, and occupant comfort.
Conduct root cause analysis and implement engineering solutions to resolve system inefficiencies or failures.
Leverage CFD simulations and building performance software to validate design assumptions and troubleshoot complex issues.
Ensure systems are designed and operated in accordance with ASHRAE, SMACNA, NFPA, ISO, USP, and other applicable codes and guidelines.
Support validation and commissioning efforts for GMP, ISO-classified spaces, and other critical environments.
Maintain documentation required for audits, quality control, and environmental certifications.
Lead mechanical design and review in capital projects, renovations, and expansions.
Collaborate with architects, electrical engineers, and control system specialists during project planning and execution.
Develop lifecycle cost analyses and recommend capital upgrades based on condition assessments and risk evaluations.
Mentor junior and mid-level mechanical engineers and provide technical review of engineering deliverables.
Act as an internal consultant for mechanical system challenges across departments.
Engage cross-functionally with facilities, operations, sustainability, quality, and EHS teams.
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master’s degree or PhD preferred).
Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) required or eligible.
Additional certifications such as LEED AP, CEM, or ASHRAE High-Performance Building Design Professional (HBDP) are a plus.
Experience:
15+ years of mechanical engineering experience with a focus on HVAC and environmental control systems.
At least 5 years in a senior technical leadership or chief engineer role.
Experience in high-specification environments such as pharmaceutical, biotech, semiconductor, aerospace, or healthcare is highly preferred.
Technical Expertise:
Mastery of HVAC system design, thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and building automation.
Proficiency with design and analysis tools such as AutoCAD, Revit MEP, Trane TRACE, eQuest, EnergyPlus, and CFD software.
Familiarity with environmental control in cleanroom design (ISO 14644), biosafety labs (BSL-2/3), and critical containment applications.
Deep technical knowledge with strategic, systems-level thinking
Strong leadership, mentoring, and communication abilities
Excellence in engineering judgment, troubleshooting, and technical documentation
Attention to regulatory compliance and quality systems
Passion for innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainability