Associate Principal Mechanical Engineer
Associate Principal Engineer - Mission Critical (Data Centers)
Location: Dulles, VA * Full‑Time / Regular
My client, a 100% employee‑owned national MEP design-build firm, is seeking an Associate Principal Engineer to serve as a senior design expert, technical authority, and people leader across mission‑critical/data‑center engineering teams.
Position Summary
This role provides expert engineering guidance, oversees conceptual design, ensures adherence to engineering standards, and leads a team of engineers across complex mission‑critical projects.
What You'll Do
- Provide design and engineering support across departments, ensuring standards are upheld.
- Lead conceptual design efforts for major projects; produce complex preliminary redline layouts.
- Perform advanced calculations for HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, or fire protection systems (discipline‑specific).
- Conduct site inspections, resolving design issues in the field.
- Attend project team meetings as the senior design representative.
- Ensure successful achievement of project goals and deliverables.
- Lead and manage a team of engineers, including staffing, training, coaching, and performance management.
What You'll Bring
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering.
- PE License required.
- 12+ years of relevant experience, including 5+ years managing engineers.
- Expert knowledge of building system design (HVAC, plumbing, mechanical, fire protection, etc.).
- Outstanding communication and public‑speaking abilities.
- Proven leadership in guiding technical engineering groups.
- Proficiency in CADD and Microsoft Office (Excel).
Why Join My Client
My client's employee‑ownership model cultivates a stable, high‑engagement environment where senior engineering leaders shape the future of a rapidly growing business. ESOP companies consistently demonstrate significantly higher employee stability, wealth accumulation, and retention.
Benefits Include:
- 401(k) with 50% match (no cap) + immediate vesting
- Medical, dental, vision - 100% paid for the employee
- Annual performance‑based bonus
- Life, AD&D, voluntary life, and disability insurance
- FSA (health & dependent care)
- Paid parental leave, holidays, vacation, and personal time
- Company‑funded licenses, memberships, and professional development programs
- Wellness benefits
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