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Lead Mechanical Engineer

IPS - Integrated Project Services, LLC
United States, Illinois, Chicago
Jan 06, 2026
Job Description

At IPS, we are global leaders in developing innovative solutions for the consulting, architecture, engineering, project controls, procurement, construction management, and CQV of technically complex facilities, primarily in the life sciences industry. We are looking for a talented Lead Mechanical (HVAC Design) Engineer to join our team located near Chicago, Illinois.

In this role, you will work independently on various projects as assigned by a Project Manager or Group Lead. You may also oversee the entire design process or assist as a technical expert on a specialized design; may work on several concurrent projects; is a recognized expert in one specialized area, such as mechanical, plumbing, electrical, or process.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Direct the design of the mechanical (HVAC) systems, including but not limited to air distribution ductwork

    systems, hot water, chilled water, and condenser water pumping and piping systems, steam, and condensate

    piping systems, central plants, air handling systems, dehumidification systems, automatic control systems, and

    ancillary heat transfer systems for pharmaceutical, biotech, and life science facilities.

  • Prepare engineering studies and schematic designs for new mechanical systems and analyze the operation of existing systems.
  • Analyze existing HVAC and utility generation systems and equipment, and determine applicability for use in renovation projects.
  • Perform the role of Project Lead on projects for all phases of work, including but not limited to: Feasibility Reports, Building Assessments, Concept and Basis of Design Reports, and Detailed Design and Documentation.
  • Assess the requirements of a project, break a project into tasks, and work with a Project Manager to determine the scope of work, budget, and staffing.
  • Write the scope of work for design, based on preliminary review and meetings with the client.
  • Work with code officials and other design professionals when an interpretation or exception to building codes is required.
  • Assign and review the work of the project design team.
  • Check progress of work, and produce markups to be incorporated in drawings.
  • Communicate with clients and alert the Project Manager to changes of scope or additional services.
  • Review contractor applications for payment.
  • Coordinate all aspects of project document completion within the company and externally with clients, as well as other design professionals.
  • Make calculations, using engineering formulas and skills for design such as duct sizing and pressure drop calculations, air balance calculations, and equipment sizing.
  • Prepare or review construction budgets based on experience and the scope of the project.
  • Promote use of, and participate in the development of, company design and production standards.
  • Assist in the education and development of design staff and act as a resource for design questions.
  • Perform additional tasks or projects as assigned.

The salary offered for this role is between $138,400 and $212,250, but the actual salary offered is dependent on experience, skill set, and education.


Qualifications & Requirements

  • 10-12 years of Engineering/design experience in the building design industry (for example: HVAC systems and Utility Generation equipment).
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited four-year College or University.
  • Has a thorough understanding of the construction process.
  • Expertise in computer operation for engineering design programs and computer-aided drafting (AutoCAD/Revit).
  • Thorough knowledge of Mechanical system design and applicable codes.
  • Thorough knowledge of Mechanical (HVAC) system design and applicable codes.
  • Experience with software for performing load calculations and energy analysis.
  • 4 years of experience overseeing engineers and designers on project teams.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Professional engineer (PE).

Physical Demands

  • Must be able to stand, sit, and walk for prolonged periods.
  • Must possess the ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl as required.
  • Must be able to lift and move objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Must be able to climb ladders as necessary.

Work Environment

  • Must be able to work in both indoor and outdoor environments, which may include exposure to varying working conditions.
  • Must be able to adhere to strict cleanroom gowning protocol.

Travel

  • This position will have 5-20% travel, or as required by the assigned project.
  • You may be assigned to a client site for an extended period.
  • Overnight travel or staying in the city of the Client's location is possible, depending on the assignment.
  • Please review the IPS Travel Policy.
  • You will visit Client sites and will be required to adhere to stated safety rules.
  • Must have access to reliable transportation.
  • Must have the ability to travel and commute on a daily or routine basis.

Safety

  • This position is a safety-sensitive position.
  • The employee is designated for field work and attends activities at client sites where they work in construction, process, packaging, manufacturing, research, or other "non-administrative" areas.

All interviews are conducted either in person or virtually, with video required.


About Us

IPS, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a global leader in technical consulting, architecture, engineering, procurement, construction management, commissioning, qualification, and validation services for technically complex facilities. Integration is how we think and work. It requires the ability to unite existing and emerging technologies into a process that reliably delivers products and accelerates speed to market. That end-to-end mindset allows us to be agile and anticipate challenges as we move projects toward operational readiness. IPS applies design and delivery expertise, client-side experience, and supplier-side insight to every project. We infuse our curiosity, our passion, and our commitment to partnership in delivering solutions at any scale. We meet our clients where they are and get them to where they need to go. That's only possible when we care as much as our clients do.

Specialties

Process Architecture, Process Design, Engineering, Construction, Commissioning, Qualification, LEAN Project Delivery, Strategic Master Planning, Energy Conservation Management, Project Controls, Program/Project Management, Operations/Logistics Strategy and Planning, EPCMV, and Staffing Services.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment at IPS without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran, marital, or citizenship status, or any other status protected by law. IPS is proud to be an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer.

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