Mechanical engineering Jobs in Pasadena, CA

Mechanical Engineering Manager

The Mechanical Engineering Manager is responsible for leading and growing the mechanical engineering department while overseeing the design, coordination, and execution of complex HVAC and mechanical systems for commercial and multifamily construction projects. This role provides both technical and operational leadership, ensuring high-quality engineering deliverables while partnering closely with operations, preconstruction, project management, and field teams.

The ideal candidate is a licensed Mechanical Engineer with experience leading design teams in a design-build mechanical contracting environment. This individual will play a key role in developing engineering standards, mentoring staff, supporting business growth, and driving collaboration between engineering and construction teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the mechanical engineering department, including project workload planning, staffing, mentoring, and professional development.
• Oversee the design and engineering of HVAC, piping, ventilation, hydronic, and mechanical systems for commercial and residential construction projects.
• Provide technical leadership throughout project lifecycles, from conceptual design through construction support and project closeout.
• Collaborate with project management, estimating, preconstruction, and field operations teams to ensure successful project execution.
• Review and approve mechanical designs, calculations, drawings, specifications, and engineering deliverables.
• Establish engineering standards, quality control procedures, and best practices across the organization.
• Support design-build pursuits by participating in conceptual budgeting, value engineering, and constructability reviews.
• Coordinate with architects, developers, consultants, and internal stakeholders throughout the design process.
• Lead multidisciplinary coordination efforts involving mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural, and architectural systems.
• Drive innovation, efficiency, and continuous improvement within engineering processes and workflows.
• Support project teams during construction by providing technical guidance, resolving design challenges, and assisting with field coordination.
• Recruit, develop, and retain engineering talent to support organizational growth.
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes, regulations, industry standards, and engineering best practices.

Qualifications

• Active California Professional Engineer (PE) license in Mechanical Engineering required.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering required.
• 8+ years of mechanical engineering experience within the HVAC or mechanical construction industry.
• 35+ years of leadership experience managing engineering teams or departments.
• Strong experience within a design-build mechanical contracting or EPC environment.
• Proven experience designing HVAC and mechanical systems for multifamily, mixed-use, hospitality, senior living, student housing, commercial, or institutional projects.
• Strong knowledge of California building codes, energy codes, and industry standards.
• Experience coordinating engineering efforts with construction operations and field personnel.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Extensive experience designing systems for multifamily residential developments.
• Experience supporting large-scale design-build projects from conceptual design through construction.
• Proficiency with Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, BIM coordination tools, and Microsoft Office.
• Familiarity with Title 24 compliance, energy modeling, and sustainable design principles.
• Experience mentoring engineers and developing high-performing technical teams.
• Background working directly with mechanical contractors rather than consulting-only environments.