Hvac Design Engineer

Job Title: Senior HVAC Design Engineer - Pharma & Chemical Industries

Location: [City, State] Experience: 10+ years Industry: Pharmaceutical, Chemical, Life Sciences, Biotechnology Type: Full-time

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly experienced and skilled Senior HVAC Design Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in the design, engineering, and project management of complex HVAC systems specifically for pharmaceutical, chemical, and life sciences facilities. This role requires a deep understanding of cGMP regulations, cleanroom classifications, hazardous area requirements, and sterile manufacturing processes. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the design effort from conceptualization through commissioning, ensuring all systems are safe, reliable, efficient, and compliant with all relevant industry standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and Engineering:

• Lead the detailed design of HVAC systems for new construction and renovation projects in pharmaceutical and chemical plants, including sterile fill/finish, API manufacturing, R&D labs, and chemical processing areas.

• Develop P&ID's, airflow diagrams, ductwork layouts, and equipment schedules.
• Perform heat load calculations, pressure drop analysis, and psychrometric analysis.
• Specify and select HVAC equipment such as air handling units (AHUs), chillers, boilers, cleanroom equipment, and HEPA filters.

• Design systems for classified spaces (e.g., ISO 5, 7, 8) and containment areas (e.g., BSL levels, potent compounds).

• Compliance and Standards:

• Ensure all designs comply with cGMP, FDA, EU GMP, WHO, and other regulatory requirements.

• Adhere to industry standards such as ASHRAE, ASME, SMACNA, NFPA, and local building codes.
• Integrate designs with safety standards for hazardous locations (e.g., NEC/IEC Class I Div I/II).

• Participate in risk assessments (e.g., HAZOP) related to HVAC systems.

• Project Management & Collaboration:

• Manage the entire HVAC design lifecycle, including conceptual design, detailed engineering, construction support, and commissioning.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including process engineers, architects, project managers, and clients to develop integrated design solutions.
• Review and approve submittals, vendor drawings, and equipment specifications.
• Provide technical support during the construction, installation, and startup phases.

• Serve as a technical mentor to junior engineers.

• Documentation and Validation:

• Prepare and review technical specifications, engineering reports, and design documentation.

• Contribute to the development of validation protocols (DQ, IQ, OQ) for HVAC systems.
• Support the execution of commissioning and qualification activities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Master's degree is a plus.
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license is highly preferred.
• ASHRAE certifications (e.g., CPD, HBDP) are a plus.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in HVAC design, with a strong focus on the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
• In-depth knowledge of cGMP, cleanroom technology, and sterile manufacturing processes.
• Proven experience designing systems for hazardous and classified environments.
• Proficiency in HVAC design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit and Trane Trace 3D).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.