Project Design Manager - MEP

Position Summary:

Based in the corporate office in Fort Wayne, IN, the Project Design Manager – MEP is responsible for leading the design and coordination of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems for design-build projects involving temperature-controlled buildings and food processing facilities. This role bridges the gap between design and construction-overseeing engineering deliverables, managing subcontractors and vendors, and ensuring systems are properly designed, integrated, and commissioned to meet project requirements. This position involves a mix of office-based design coordination and on-site project management. Travel to project sites, client facilities, and vendor locations is required as projects demand. Expected travel averages 3-5 nights per month.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise in MEP systems with the leadership skills required to manage multidisciplinary design-build projects from concept through turnover.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform up-front due diligence with existing and new site utility networks, availability, and coordination with local providers

• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of MEP design and construction activities for temperature-controlled and food processing facilities.

• Oversee and coordinate the work of internal engineering teams, consultants, engineers of record, and subcontractors to ensure seamless integration of MEP systems with architectural, structural, and process designs.

• Conduct design and coordination meetings with clients, design partners, and construction teams.

• Support field teams during installation, testing, and commissioning, providing technical guidance and resolving design or coordination issues.

• Collaborate with estimating and preconstruction teams to develop MEP scopes, budgets, and schedules for design-build estimates.

Qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or similar degree

Experience:

• 3+ years of experience managing MEP systems design and installation; experience with design-build delivery preferred.

• Background in industrial, food processing, cold storage, or temperature-controlled facility projects preferred.

• Solid understanding of some or all HVAC, refrigeration, process utilities, electrical distribution, and plumbing systems.

• Proficiency with AutoCAD

• Familiarity with Revit, Bluebeam, or BIM coordination tools.

• Working knowledge of relevant building codes, NFPA, ASHRAE, and food safety standards.

• Excellent communication, coordination, teamwork, and leadership skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary

• Performance-based quarterly bonus program

• Vehicle Plan

• Seven paid holidays

• Paid vacation time

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage

• Short- and long-term disability as well as life insurance

• 401k plan with company match