Full Job Description
Mechanical Design Engineer
We are currently recruiting for a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our office in Houston, TX, Sunrise, FL or Chicago/Lisle, IL within the Plant Engineering Division.
Compensation Data
$120,000-$150,000 commensurate with education and experience.
Mission
The Mechanical Design Engineer ensures the development and delivery of high-quality mechanical design solutions in compliance with project requirements, industry standards, and client specifications. The role provides technical expertise across all project phases - from concept to detailed design, procurement support, and vendor coordination - while ensuring integration across disciplines and alignment with quality, cost, and schedule targets.
Key Accountabilities
Design and Technical Documentation
- Prepare and update mechanical design specifications, data sheets (MDS), and technical requisitions for components and equipment.
- Review and interpret project requirements, process data, and client specifications to define design inputs.
- Develop and verify general arrangement drawings, bill of materials, and supporting documentation according to internal and international standards (ASME, ISO, API, NFPA, etc.).
- Ensure completeness and consistency of design deliverables across all project phases (basic, detailed, and as-built).
- Prepare cost estimation for mechanical equipment and support inquiry documentation.
Design Verification and Calculations
- Perform and validate design calculations (pressure vessel sizing, mechanical strength, thermal expansion, etc.).
- Conduct design verification, peer reviews, and ensure full compliance with applicable design codes (ASME, EN, API, etc.).
- Support technical assessments, root cause analyses, and corrective actions for design-related issues.
- Participate in project audits and HSE design case reviews (Bow Tie, Safety Critical Element workshops).
Vendor and Client Interface
- Prepare technical documentation for inquiries and purchase requisitions; perform technical bid evaluations (TBE) and support vendor selection.
- Review vendor drawings and documents, coordinate clarifications, and participate in kick-off, pre-inspection, and design review meetings.
- Attend technical clarification meetings with vendors and clients, pre-inspection meetings (PIM), inspections and testing at vendor facilities, and site surveys.
- Assess vendor quotations and post-order documentation for compliance.
Interdisciplinary Coordination
- Collaborate with process, piping, electrical, instrumentation, and civil teams to ensure complete technical integration of mechanical systems.
- Participate in project review meetings (design reviews, model reviews, HAZOP, IPF reviews) and manage interface resolution.
Quality, Standards, and Continuous Improvement
- Ensure all design activities comply with company quality, HSE, and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant standards and contribute to continuous improvement of design methods, tools, and templates.
- Complete assigned project tasks within the allocated budget and schedule.
- Participate in lessons-learned sessions and promote best engineering practices.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Studies.
- Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Studies.
- Minimum 5 years experience in mechanical design for industrial plants, energy systems, or similar engineering environments.
- Solid understanding of mechanical design codes and standards (e.g., ASME VIII, EN 13445, API, BS, ISO, NFPA20 etc.).
- Proficiency in engineering calculation and design software (e.g., PV Elite, COMPRESS, HTRI, Mathcad, ANSYS, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, etc.).
- Conversant with international codes and standards such as API, ASME, BS, ISO, NFPA20 etc.
- Strong technical writing and documentation skills.
- Good command of English, both written and spoken.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary, international team environment.
Additional Requirements
- Ability to travel up to 25% to project and job sites, based upon business needs.
- Valid driver's license.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of the work being performed. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.
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Competencies
- DOMAIN & BUSINESS ACUMEN - Applying a scientific approach and critical thinking in operations and solution development within area of expertise.
- FORESIGHT & INSIGHT - Context awareness adopting a systemic perspective and informed decision making.
- INTERPERSONAL INFLUENCE - Skills and strategies we use to interact effectively with others.
- PERSONAL EMPOWERMENT - Ownership for life, work and results, striving to grow professionally and personally.
- WORKPLACE DYNAMICS - Resourcefulness in shaping progress and working efficiently.
RINA North America provides a comprehensive benefits package, including the following insurance options: Medical, Dental, Vision, Medical Flexible Spending Account, Dependent Care Spending Account, Health Savings Account, Transit, Parking, Basic Life, Basic AD&D, Voluntary Life, Voluntary AD&D, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Voluntary Accident, Voluntary Critical Illness, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, and Employee Assistance Program. Additional benefits provided include paid time off, company holidays, tuition reimbursement, nursery grant, travel resource services, and 401K plan with company discretionary match.