Join our Team
Mechanical Engineer - Allendale, MI
Fanning Howey creates learning environments throughout the country with our team of architects, engineers, interior designers, and planners. We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to join our Engineering team in Allendale, Michigan, and contribute to the design and delivery of high-performance, integrated building systems.
This role is ideal for a licensed professional who enjoys technical problem-solving, interdisciplinary collaboration, and taking a leadership role in projects from concept through construction. As a Mechanical Engineer, you will play a key role in designing innovative, energy-efficient, and sustainable mechanical systems that support our clients’ goals and the firm’s commitment to design excellence.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
A Strong Technical Engineer
You bring extensive knowledge of building mechanical systems, including HVAC, heating and cooling systems, ventilation, and building automation and controls. You apply your expertise to develop practical, energy-efficient solutions that meet the unique needs of each project.
An Experienced Technical Leader
You are comfortable taking ownership of mechanical design projects, providing technical guidance, and mentoring less-experienced engineers and designers. You bring sound engineering judgment and the ability to independently evaluate complex design challenges.
A Collaborative Team Player
You work closely with architects, electrical and plumbing engineers, structural and civil engineers, and consultants to deliver coordinated, integrated design solutions.
Design-Focused and Detail-Oriented
You value accuracy, constructability, and code compliance and understand how mechanical systems contribute to overall building performance, occupant comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency.
Comfortable in the Field
You are confident participating in site visits, facility assessments, construction observation, and coordination with contractors to ensure design intent is carried through construction.
Clear Communicator
You communicate effectively through drawings, written documentation, and conversations with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal team members. You are comfortable presenting technical recommendations and guiding project teams through design decisions.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
- Lead the design and engineering of building mechanical systems, including HVAC, heating and cooling, ventilation, and building automation and controls.
- Perform engineering calculations, equipment sizing, load analysis, and system evaluations to develop efficient and reliable mechanical designs.
- Provide technical leadership and guidance to mechanical engineers and designers throughout the design and construction process.
- Support sustainable and high-performance design through energy modeling, system research, and lifecycle-based decision-making.
- Participate in facility condition assessments, master planning, and early design studies.
- Coordinate mechanical designs with multidisciplinary project teams to ensure integrated solutions.
- Prepare and oversee the development of 3D construction documents using Revit.
- Participate in BIM coordination and clash detection meetings.
- Prepare and review documentation and calculations for code compliance, energy efficiency, and LEED certification.
- Conduct site visits, respond to RFIs, review submittals, and support construction administration.
- Provide construction observation to verify conformance with design intent and project specifications.
- Collaborate with clients, project managers, and internal teams to develop mechanical solutions that align with project goals, budgets, and schedules.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license highly preferred, with the ability to obtain Michigan licensure if not currently licensed in the state.
- Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in mechanical engineering.
- Extensive experience designing HVAC systems for commercial, educational, or.
- Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, building codes, energy codes, and industry design standards.
- Demonstrated ability to independently lead mechanical design efforts and provide technical guidance to project teams.
- Experience using industry software such as Revit, Trane TRACE or Carrier HAP, and Bluebeam.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred:
- Experience designing mechanical systems for K-12 educational facilities.
- LEED accreditation or other sustainability-related credentials.
- Experience working in an architectural, engineering, or consulting firm environment.
- Experience mentoring junior engineers and designers.
- Familiarity with energy modeling, high-performance building systems, and sustainable design practices.
WHY FANNING HOWEY
- Collaborative, interdisciplinary design culture.
- Opportunity to work on meaningful, mission-driven projects.
- Opportunity to provide technical leadership and mentor developing engineering professionals.
- Commitment to sustainable and high-performance design.
- Competitive compensation and benefits.
- Hybrid work arrangements may be available based on firm policy and project needs.