Lead Mechanical Engineer

Position Overview

PAE is an engineering and design firm that turns complex challenges into reality. As a certified B Corp committed to innovation, transparency, and sustainability, we deliver resilient and efficient built environments from concept to occupancy. We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Mechanical Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team in our San Francisco, CA office. In this role, you will oversee mechanical design development—including HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and energy modeling—from initial concepts through construction, ensuring technical excellence, quality management, and strong client engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Project team leadership and discipline management, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Preparation of deliverable documents including narratives, calculations, drawings, and specifications.
• Attending client meetings and leading coordination between external and internal project teams.
• Applying engineering judgment and techniques to complete projects from concept through construction.
• Proficiently designing mechanical systems covering HVAC, Plumbing, Fire Protection, and Energy Modeling.
• Assembling effective project teams and developing workplans, tasks, and assignments.
• Coordinating interdisciplinary efforts and ensuring adherence to building codes and industry standards.
• Overseeing engineering calculations and equipment selection, including conducting site visits and issuing reports.
• Providing training, guidance, and mentorship to staff while updating master specifications and improving processes.
• Developing client relationships and overseeing the application of the project quality management plan (QMP).

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or a related field.
• Relevant professional credential (i.e., PE) with a minimum of 2-4 years (for Mechanical 3) or 5-10 years of related work experience.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to inspire and motivate teams.
• Advanced understanding of mechanical engineering concepts and effective communication of design options.
• Strong delegation skills, attention to detail, and advanced organizational abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with Revit/AutoCAD.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: Hiring Base Salary Range: $122,300-$160,700 annual; this position is eligible for time and a half overtime pay. The base salary is one component of a competitive compensation package that considers skills, experience, education, and geographic location, with potential for salary increases and annual bonuses based on performance.
• Employer paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision).
• Annual 401k profit sharing based on company profit and account contribution.
• Professional development reimbursements, including state registration and professional association dues.
• Employer paid commuter/parking stipend and cell phone stipend.
• Life insurance and disability benefits.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Paid time off for sick leave, family leave, community service, holidays, and vacation.
• 9 paid holidays, including an additional employee-selected day. For more details on our comprehensive benefits package, visit our benefits page.