Mechanical Engineer

Superior Skilled Trades is seeking a Mechanical Engineer in Bethesda, MD for an ASAP start

• PAY: $65hr
• HOURS: 8-10-hour workdays
• SCHEDULE: Monday–Friday
• START DATE: ASAP
• DURATION: Long term

Mechanical Engineer (PE) – Biomedical / Research Facilities

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly experienced Mechanical Engineer (PE) to support complex design, construction, and commissioning efforts for biomedical research and high-containment facilities. This role involves reviewing and advising on mechanical systems design in compliance with federal standards, national codes, and industry best practices.

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and process systems within laboratory, healthcare, or bio-containment environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Review design and construction documents to ensure compliance with NIH Design Requirements Manual (DRM), national codes, and industry standards
• Evaluate:
• Contract documents and submissions
• Shop drawings and control systems
• Testing and commissioning protocols
• As-built drawings and O&M documentation
• Provide engineering design recommendations for permit review projects
• Collaborate with project officers, architects, and contractors to identify design gaps and develop solutions
• Deliver technical guidance on complex mechanical systems to leadership and stakeholders
• Prepare feasibility studies, technical reports, and system investigations
• Conduct on-site field visits to monitor construction progress and identify deficiencies
• Participate in commissioning to ensure systems perform as designed
• Analyze existing systems and recommend cost-effective retrofit or replacement solutions

Required Qualifications

• Active Professional Engineer (PE) License – Mechanical Engineering
• 10–15+ years of recent, hands-on experience in:
• Design, construction, and commissioning
• Mechanical, HVAC, and plumbing systems
• Strong experience in biomedical, laboratory, or bio-containment facilities
• Proven ability to review and evaluate:
• Design documents, specifications, and engineering reports
• Shop drawings and technical submissions
• Experience identifying:
• Code violations
• Design deficiencies and risks
• Missing or incomplete documentation

Technical Expertise

• HVAC systems and Building Automation Systems (BAS)
• Heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and psychrometrics
• Clean steam systems and process piping
• Equipment sizing and system performance analysis
• Plumbing systems (commercial, industrial, institutional)
• Specialty systems including:
• Laboratory gases
• Cryogenic systems
• Lab-grade water and waste systems

Preferred Experience

• Laboratory, vivarium, healthcare, or high-containment (BSL-3/ABSL-3) facilities
• Commissioning of MEP systems
• Field inspection and installation oversight
• New construction and renovation projects
• Troubleshooting mechanical system deficiencies

Certifications

• OSHA 10 Certification (required)

Codes & Standards Knowledge

Working knowledge of applicable codes and standards, including but not limited to:

• IBC, IPC, IMC, IECC, UPC
• NFPA (45, 50, 54, 55, 90A, 91, 99, 101)
• ASHRAE Standards (12, 36, 55, 62.1, 90.1, 110, 135, 170, 188, 202)
• CDC & NIH Biosafety (BMBL)
• FGI Guidelines for Healthcare Facilities
• ANSI/AIHA Laboratory Ventilation Standards

What We’re Looking For

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to interpret complex technical documentation
• Effective communication with both technical teams and leadership
• Independent thinker with strong attention to detail

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off