Mechanical Design Engineer

About NDBS

NDBS has been entrusted with the design and installation of mechanical systems across the country for more than 500 projects. With a focus on energy efficiency, we develop the best possible solutions for your project. Our designs are environmentally conscious and limit the cost impact to building owners for the life-cycle of the facility.

We are constantly focused on the needs of our clients, as well as the needs of our clients’ customers. We engineer the best systems for the project and oversee every aspect from design development to close-out and commissioning. Questions and concerns are addressed immediately, ensuring that we are always available for our clients throughout the entire process.

Mechanical Design Engineer – HVAC & Plumbing Systems

About NDBS

National Design Build Services is a mechanical design/build firm specializing in HVAC/R systems for commercial and light industrial facilities. Our projects include cold storage, food and beverage processing, manufacturing plants, distribution centers, healthcare, and large-scale commercial buildings.

NDBS offers a competitive compensation and benefits package along with strong opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Position Description

The Mechanical Design Engineer – HVAC & Plumbing Systems is a key technical role responsible for the design and engineering of HVAC and plumbing systems from concept through construction. This position focuses on air distribution, ventilation, refrigeration support systems, and domestic/process plumbing design in complex commercial and industrial environments.

You will work closely with field teams, project managers, and preconstruction to ensure systems are engineered for constructability, efficiency, and code compliance.

Position Information

Position Type: Full Time

Travel Required: 15%

Department: Engineering

Location: St. Louis, MO 63146 OR Remote (U.S.)

Skills & Responsibilities (including but not limited to):

Adhering to NDBS Core Values

Safety

We Answer Our Phones

Always Innovating

Collaborative Partnerships

Reputation

Entrepreneurship

HVAC & Plumbing Design (Primary Focus)

Design HVAC systems including air distribution, ventilation, and temperature control for commercial and light industrial facilities

Design plumbing systems including domestic water, sanitary waste, venting, storm drainage, and specialty piping systems

Support refrigeration systems design for cold storage and food & beverage facilities

Perform equipment selection (RTUs, AHUs, exhaust fans, pumps, etc.) and system layout

Develop ductwork, piping, and plumbing layouts, risers, and schematics in Revit

Perform load calculations and airflow analysis for HVAC systems

Ensure designs comply with applicable mechanical, plumbing, and energy codes

Develop sequences of operation for HVAC and mechanical systems

Coordinate closely with field teams to ensure constructability and installation efficiency

Mechanical Systems Coordination

Coordinate HVAC, plumbing, and refrigeration systems with structural, electrical, and architectural components

Participate in clash detection and model coordination within Revit/BIM environments

Support value engineering and system optimization efforts

Project Execution

Participate in internal turnover meetings to define project scope, risks, resources, schedule, and budget

Collaborate with preconstruction to translate bid concepts into executable designs

Partner with operations teams to ensure alignment on system design and installation approach

Conduct site visits to support quality control, resolve field issues, and assist with commissioning

Qualifications and Education Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

5+ years of experience in HVAC and/or plumbing system design

Experience designing systems for commercial and/or light industrial facilities (manufacturing, food processing, distribution, cold storage preferred)

Strong understanding of HVAC systems, air distribution, and plumbing design principles

Proficiency in Revit for mechanical system modeling

Working knowledge of mechanical, plumbing, and energy codes

HVAC/R experience required; refrigeration experience strongly preferred

Experience with large-scale or industrial facilities is a plus

Self-motivated with strong time management and organizational skills

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

Strong communication and collaboration skills

We’re committed to attracting talented individuals who seek a company with a strong foundation of success and an outstanding culture. We proactively provide competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and clear pathways for career advancement with autonomy and flexibility in an entrepreneurial environment.

Learn more about our family of operating companies at www.kelso-industries.com

NDBS is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.