• Lead Mechanical Designer

    Actalent (Chicago, IL)


    Job Title: Lead Mechanical DesignerJob Description

     

    Execute HVAC system designs including equipment selection, layout, and performance analysis with minimal oversight. Prepare detailed construction documentation including specifications, drawings, and technical instructions for moderately complex projects. Evaluate vendor proposals and equipment selections to ensure compliance with project specifications, applicable codes, and performance criteria. Collaborate with construction teams to assess design feasibility, sequencing, and field conditions, ensuring constructability and alignment with project schedules. Produce engineering deliverables that meet scope, budget, and quality expectations, including reports, calculations, and system analyses. Coordinate with other engineering disciplines and project stakeholders to ensure integrated and cohesive design solutions. May oversee and mentor junior engineers or designers, providing guidance and reviewing work for accuracy and completeness. Stay informed on emerging HVAC technologies and products, assessing their applicability to current and future projects. Engage with product representatives and manufacturers to gather technical data and maintain up-to-date knowledge of available solutions.

    Responsibilities

    + Execute HVAC system designs, including equipment selection, layout, and performance analysis with minimal oversight.

    + Prepare detailed construction documentation including specifications, drawings, and technical instructions for moderately complex projects.

    + Evaluate vendor proposals and equipment selections to ensure compliance with project specifications, applicable codes, and performance criteria.

    + Collaborate with construction teams to assess design feasibility, sequencing, and field conditions, ensuring constructability and alignment with project schedules.

    + Produce engineering deliverables that meet scope, budget, and quality expectations, including reports, calculations, and system analyses.

    + Coordinate with other engineering disciplines and project stakeholders to ensure integrated and cohesive design solutions.

    + Oversee and mentor junior engineers or designers, providing guidance and reviewing work for accuracy and completeness.

    + Stay informed on emerging HVAC technologies and products, assessing their applicability to current and future projects.

    + Engage with product representatives and manufacturers to gather technical data and maintain up-to-date knowledge of available solutions.

    Essential Skills

    + Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or relevant work experience.

    + Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification is expected.

    + 4–7 years of experience for mid-level designers.

    + Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and other engineering tools.

    + Strong understanding of HVAC design principles, building codes, and industry standards.

    + Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

    + Excellent communication and organizational skills.

    Additional Skills & Qualifications

    + Experience with MEP Design and Solidworks.

    + Familiarity with mechanical design and machine design processes.

    Work Environment

    Located in Chicago across from the Willis Tower, our team currently comprises 25 people with plans for growth. The position offers a hybrid schedule with Friday as an optional remote day, requiring 40-45 hours a week. The company culture includes lunch & learns, Thirsty Thursday events once a month, a summer picnic with family and friends, and an end-of-year party. Employees may attend trade shows and be sent to trainings. Quarterly reviews are provided to ensure career growth and development.

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Contract position based out of Chicago, Illinois.

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Contract position based out of Chicago, IL.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $55.00/hr.

     

    Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

     

    • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a hybrid position in Chicago,IL.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Nov 14, 2025.

    About Actalent

    Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

     

    The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

     

    If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.