IS Design Manager

The ideal candidate brings strong commercial HVAC/mechanical design engineering experience, experience with building automation systems (BAS), programming, and building operations, proven leadership experience managing and mentoring design engineers, and proficiency with Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD. This role provides technical leadership and mentorship to the design team, supports project planning and resource management, and collaborates with project managers, clients, and internal stakeholders to deliver high-quality, energy-efficient building systems.

HVAC Design Manager 
Employment Type: Direct Hire | Full-Time
Locations: Charlotte, NC | Philadelphia, PA | Chicago, IL | Little Rock, AR | Phoenix, AZ | Salt Lake City, UT | Dallas, TX (open to relocation)
Work Arrangement: 100% Onsite with Regional Travel
Travel: Approximately 25% (Mileage and travel expenses reimbursed)
Compensation: $135,000–$155,000 annually + Discretionary Annual Bonus + $140/month Phone Allowance

Position Overview

Wheeler Staffing Partners is seeking an experienced HVAC Design Manager for a direct hire opportunity supporting a nationally recognized engineering organization. We have seven openings available across multiple U.S. locations.

The HVAC Design Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day execution of commercial HVAC design projects, ensuring design quality, timely project delivery, and alignment with client requirements, company standards, and project objectives. This role provides technical leadership and mentorship to the design team, supports project planning and resource management, and collaborates with project managers, clients, and internal stakeholders to deliver high-quality, energy-efficient building systems.

The ideal candidate brings strong commercial HVAC/mechanical design engineering experience, experience with building automation systems (BAS), programming, and building operations, proven leadership experience managing and mentoring design engineers, and proficiency with Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD.

Key Responsibilities

Project Design Leadership

• Lead design production activities from project kickoff through construction closeout.
• Ensure projects are completed on schedule while meeting quality, performance, and energy efficiency objectives.
• Support project execution through accurate documentation and adherence to project requirements.
• Maintain compliance with engineering standards, quality requirements, and safety protocols.

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Provide day-to-day leadership and oversight for engineering and design staff.
• Assign work, monitor project progress, and balance team workloads.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers and designers while supporting professional growth.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing team environment focused on continuous improvement.

Quality & Process Management

• Perform quality reviews of engineering designs and project documentation.
• Support implementation of design standards, best practices, and process improvements.
• Ensure consistency across project deliverables and technical documentation.

Project & Resource Management

• Assist with labor planning, staffing utilization, and resource allocation.
• Monitor project budgets and labor hours.
• Review timesheets and project reporting for accuracy.
• Support project managers in maintaining project schedules and deliverables.

Client & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with project managers, engineering teams, and leadership throughout project execution.
• Participate in client meetings and provide technical support during project discussions.
• Communicate project updates and coordinate activities across multiple stakeholders.
• Support additional operational and leadership initiatives as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical field.
• 5+ years of commercial HVAC/mechanical design engineering experience.
• Experience with building automation systems (BAS), programming/controls, and building operations.
• Experience leading, mentoring, or developing junior engineers.
• Proficiency with Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to travel approximately 25% throughout the assigned region.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Engineering Intern (EI) certification.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
• Experience managing engineering design teams across multiple concurrent projects.

Why Join Wheeler Staffing Partners?

At Wheeler Staffing Partners, we connect engineering professionals with industry-leading employers that invest in innovation, career development, and long-term success. Our team provides personalized support, transparent communication, and access to exciting opportunities that align with your technical expertise and career goals.

Apply today to learn more about this exciting opportunity and discuss which location best fits your career goals.