Company Description
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
AECOM is seeking an experienced and technically driven Principal HVAC Engineer to join our growing MEP practice. In this senior individual-contributor role you will serve as a recognized technical authority on HVAC systems across a portfolio of complex, multi-discipline projects — ranging from commercial and institutional buildings to critical infrastructure and industrial facilities.
Responsibilities:
Technical Leadership & Design
Lead and independently execute the HVAC discipline component of Plans, Specifications & Estimates (PS&E) packages, from concept through construction documents.
Develop and apply advanced HVAC design methodologies — including load calculations, equipment selection, ductwork and piping design, and energy modeling — ensuring accuracy and code compliance.
Serve as Lead Verifier on projects, confirming that the technical approach satisfies the client's scope of services and expectations.
Prepare and review complex technical specification sections for HVAC systems, ensuring clarity, completeness, and alignment with applicable standards.
Develop construction cost estimates and technical effort estimates for HVAC scopes of work.
Identify and introduce new design processes and tools that improve efficiency and work quality across the discipline.
Quality Assurance & Interdisciplinary Coordination
Perform quality control reviews of HVAC design calculations, drawings, and specifications produced by the project team.
Participate in and lead interdisciplinary reviews of project deliverables, resolving conflicts between HVAC, structural, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems.
Engage with cross-discipline technical teams to confirm project approach and review deliverables, ensuring integrated and buildable solutions.
Analyze complex design issues, recommend solutions, and define new procedures where standard methodologies fall short.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
Communicate with clients to discuss scope of work, gather technical information, and address comments on draft deliverables.
Leverage client credibility gained from delivering high-quality technical services to expand work assignments and support business development.
Convey complex or sensitive technical information clearly and persuasively to internal teams, clients, and external stakeholders.
Assist with technical proposals and support the pursuit of new projects and funding opportunities.
Team Development & Knowledge Sharing
Provide structured guidance, mentoring, and technical training to junior and intermediate engineers, developing team capabilities.
Share technical expertise through internal communications, presentations, and knowledge-sharing sessions.
Contribute as an in-house expert on HVAC technologies, systems, and evolving industry practices.
Actively pursue continuous learning of technical advances, industry trends, energy codes, and competitive positioning.
Qualifications
Qualifications & Experience:
Required:
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or closely related discipline.
Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in HVAC engineering, with a demonstrated track record of leading discipline deliverables on complex projects.
In-depth knowledge of HVAC systems — including central air handling units, chilled water and heating hot water systems, variable air volume (VAV) systems, exhaust and ventilation systems, and controls integration.
Proficiency in HVAC load calculation and energy modelling software (e.g., Trane TRACE, eQUEST, HAP, or equivalent).
Strong working knowledge of applicable codes and standards, including ASHRAE, IMC, NFPA, and local building codes.
Proven ability to work independently, manage work priorities, and deliver high-quality technical outputs within schedule and budget constraints.
Demonstrated experience performing or directing quality control reviews of engineering calculations and design documents.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills — able to engage effectively with clients, contractors, and multidisciplinary project teams.
Preferred:
Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent registered engineering credential.
Experience with mission-critical or specialty HVAC environments — such as data centers, healthcare facilities, laboratories, or cleanrooms.
Familiarity with Building Automation Systems (BAS) and DDC controls, including integration of HVAC equipment with building management platforms.
Knowledge of Building Information Modelling (BIM) workflows and experience delivering projects in Revit MEP or equivalent authoring tools.
LEED AP or equivalent green building certification, with hands-on experience supporting sustainable design goals.
Experience with commissioning processes (Cx/BCx/RCx) and coordination with commissioning agents.
Prior involvement in industry organizations (ASHRAE chapters, professional society committees) or contributions to industry publications and technical presentations.
Exposure to design-build or integrated project delivery (IPD) project structures.
Experience with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) or advanced airflow simulation tools.
Knowledge of regulatory requirements for energy performance (e.g., EPBD in Europe, IECC, local energy codes) and demonstrated application in design.
Additional Information
At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
ReqID: J10154528
Business Line: Building Engineering
Business Group: DCS
Strategic Business Unit: Enterprise Capabilities
Career Area: Engineering
Work Location Model: Hybrid
