Mechanical Engineer II (Building Systems Design)

<h2>Position Overview</h2><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.gaa-ae.com/">Gauthier, Alvarado &amp; Associates</a>, a Northern Virginia-based multidisciplinary Architectural/Engineering firm located in Fairfax, VA, provides Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical engineering services across a diverse portfolio of commercial office buildings, educational facilities, public agencies, and interior tenant build-outs.</p><p>GAA is seeking a mid-level Mechanical Engineer (7–10 years of experience) with a strong background in building systems design to join our growing team. This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer who can independently design mechanical systems with minimal oversight while also serving as a key contributor between senior leadership and junior staff.</p><p>The successful candidate will play a critical role in developing high-quality construction documents, supporting project delivery, and helping mentor entry-level engineers, while collaborating closely with in-house architects and engineering disciplines.</p><p>This position is based in our Fairfax, VA office, with a hybrid schedule of 4 days in-office and 1 day remote.</p><p><em>Candidates must be current U.S. residents and legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available.</em></p><h2>Responsibilities</h2><ul><li><p>Lead the design and development of HVAC and mechanical systems for a variety of building types with minimal supervision</p></li><li><p>Prepare detailed construction documents, including drawings, specifications, and system layouts for mechanical and plumbing systems</p></li><li><p>Perform load calculations, system sizing, and equipment selection using industry-standard tools (e.g., Carrier HAP or similar)</p></li><li><p>Collaborate with architects and multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure coordinated, integrated designs</p></li><li><p>Review projects for interdisciplinary coordination and overall design completeness</p></li><li><p>Provide guidance and mentorship to junior/entry-level engineers</p></li><li><p>Support project managers in meeting deadlines, budgets, and client expectations</p></li><li><p>Ensure designs comply with applicable building codes, standards, and sustainability requirements</p></li><li><p>Participate in construction administration activities, including submittal reviews and site observations</p></li></ul><h2>Qualifications</h2><ul><li><p>Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university</p></li><li><p>7–10 years of experience in mechanical design for commercial, educational, and/or government projects</p></li><li><p>EIT certification required; PE license preferred or actively in progress</p></li><li><p>Demonstrated ability to design building mechanical systems independently with limited guidance</p></li><li><p>Strong experience developing construction documents and specifications</p></li><li><p>In-depth knowledge of HVAC systems, including air and hydronic distribution, chillers, boilers, pumps, air handling units, refrigeration systems, and building controls</p></li><li><p>Experience with plumbing system design and coordination</p></li><li><p>Working knowledge of applicable codes, regulations, and industry standards</p></li><li><p>Proficiency in AutoCAD, BIM/Revit, Carrier HAP (or similar load calculation software), and Microsoft Office</p></li><li><p>Strong communication, organization, and writing skills</p></li><li><p>Collaborative mindset with the ability to contribute across experience levels on the team</p></li><li><p>LEED accreditation is a plus</p></li><li><p>A self-starter with strong technical design capabilities and sound engineering judgment</p></li><li><p>Someone who takes ownership of their work and can drive projects forward with minimal direction</p></li><li><p>Ability to work from the Fairfax, VA office 4 days per week with one remote day</p></li></ul>