Mechanical Engineer III

Location: Bend or Portland, Oregon. Napa, Santa Cruz or Monterey, California. Seattle, WA. Or surrounding areas. Remote applicants within the U.S. will be considered based on qualifications and salary alignment. Remote applicants must be able to work within Pacific Time Zone hours. 

Summary/Objective

The Mechanical Engineer III plays a key role in executing high-quality mechanical design and supporting project delivery across ColeBreit Engineering’s diverse portfolio. This position focuses on technical production, coordination, and collaboration with team members to deliver mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection systems that meet performance, code, and constructability standards. Reporting to a Senior Engineer, Associate Principal, or Principal, the Mechanical Engineer III supports design development, performs calculations, and prepares coordinated construction documents. The role requires growing independence in technical problem-solving and proactive communication with project teams to ensure accurate and timely deliverables. By demonstrating technical skill, attention to detail, and a collaborative mindset, the Mechanical Engineer III strengthens ColeBreit Engineering’s reputation for high-quality, efficient, and innovative design.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Technical Design and Production (~65%)

• Perform detailed design and documentation of HVAC, plumbing, and hydronic systems, including equipment selection, layout, and sizing.

• Develop coordinated Revit models and drawings, integrating with architectural and structural systems.

• Complete design calculations such as load, pressure drop, and equipment sizing under review by a Senior Engineer.

• Prepare system diagrams, control sequences, and specifications using company templates and standards.

• Participate in internal QA/QC reviews and incorporate feedback to maintain consistency with ColeBreit standards.

• Support field work by conducting site visits, reviewing installations, and preparing clear field observation reports.

• Respond to contractor RFIs and submittals with oversight, ensuring coordination with design intent.

Project Coordination and Communication (~25%)

• Collaborate with Project Managers, architects, engineers, and contractors to coordinate mechanical systems within the overall building design.

• Track progress on assigned deliverables and communicate proactively about timelines and resource needs.

• Participate in project meetings to share updates, clarify design requirements, and resolve coordination issues.

• Maintain organized project documentation and ensure design files are properly managed in accordance with company standards.

• Support Senior Engineers and Project Managers in preparing reports, narratives, and presentations for clients or stakeholders.

Professional Growth and Mentorship (~15%)

• Seek mentorship from Senior Engineers and Principals to develop advanced technical and project management skills.

• Mentor junior designers or interns on drafting standards, modeling practices, and workflow efficiency.

• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and share lessons learned with peers.

• Participate in internal technical discussions and firmwide learning opportunities.

• Pursue professional licensure and ongoing technical development through study and continuing education.

Business Development

• Support proposal preparation by providing technical input and assisting with scope definition.

• Participate in occasional client or coordination meetings as a technical representative under the direction of a Senior Engineer or Principal.

• Contribute to building strong client relationships by demonstrating responsiveness, professionalism, and attention to detail.

• Represent ColeBreit Engineering positively in the industry through professional conduct and involvement in technical organizations such as ASHRAE.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position may include mentoring or providing day-to-day guidance to designers or interns, as assigned. The Mechanical Engineer III does not have direct supervisory responsibility for full-time staff.

Work Environment and Travel

• This role operates in a professional office environment with regular use of computers and related equipment.

• Local and regional travel (within 100 miles) is expected for project meetings and site visits. Occasional overnight travel may be required based on project needs. Hybrid work flexibility is available depending on project requirements and team coordination needs.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field required.

• 5+ years of progressive MEP design experience focusing on HVAC and plumbing systems for commercial, institutional, or residential projects.

• Professional Engineer (PE) license in Mechanical Engineering, with registration in California or Oregon—or ability to obtain within 90 days—required.

• Experience with load simulation software (EnergyPro, Trane TRACE, or Carrier HAP) preferred.

• Proficiency in Autodesk Revit required.

• Working knowledge of Bluebeam preferred.

• Understanding of relevant building codes in Oregon and California highly preferred.

• Strong technical writing and verbal communication skills; ability to present information clearly to diverse audiences.

• Active involvement in professional organizations (ASHRAE or equivalent) preferred.

Competencies and Attributes

• Technical Expertise – Demonstrates strong understanding of mechanical and plumbing systems and ability to execute accurate, coordinated designs.

• Accountability – Takes ownership of assigned tasks and meets deadlines consistently.

• Collaboration – Works effectively with peers and leadership to support coordinated, multidisciplinary design.

• Communication – Communicates clearly, proactively, and respectfully with colleagues and clients.

• Growth Mindset – Seeks mentorship and actively builds technical and leadership skills.

• Adaptability – Handles shifting priorities and project demands with professionalism.

• Team Orientation – Embodies ColeBreit’s “No Jerks Allowed” culture, promoting collaboration and trust.

Core Values Alignment

Team First – Want to Grow – Driven to Perform. ColeBreit Engineering fosters a people-first culture that values collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement. Our team members are accountable, approachable, and committed to delivering technical excellence and meaningful client partnerships.

Other Duties

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. ColeBreit Engineering reserves the right to amend duties or responsibilities as business needs evolve.