Mechanical Engineer - Facilities

Overview

Sierra Lobo, offers customers a full range of professional and technical capabilities, including Test and Evaluation, Systems Engineering, and Advanced Technologies.  We also develop products and processes related to Cryogenic Fluid and Thermal Management Systems, Densified Propellant Management Systems, and Prototype Extreme Pressure and Temperature Systems.  Our customers include the Department of Defense (DoD), the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Engineer to support the design, installation, testing, commissioning, and maintenance of mechanical systems in construction projects. This role is responsible for ensuring that building systems are functional, safe, energy-efficient, code-compliant, and properly integrated with architectural, structural, electrical, and civil components.

This position will be located in Las Cruces, NM at NASA’s White Sands Test Facility in the Facilities Department.

EOE/Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran

Responsibilities

• HVAC Design: Design heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems; perform load calculations; select equipment; and develop energy-efficient layouts that support indoor comfort and air quality.
• Plumbing Design: Plan water supply, drainage, and wastewater systems in accordance with applicable health, safety, and building requirements.
• Fire Protection: Design and coordinate fire suppression and detection systems to support compliance with fire safety codes.
• Mechanical Equipment: Coordinate the design and installation of elevators and other mechanical equipment used in building projects.
• System Integration: Collaborate with architects, civil engineers, structural engineers, electrical engineers, contractors, and other specialists to ensure system compatibility and effective project coordination.
• Design and Analysis: Prepare detailed plans and technical documentation using CAD, BIM, and simulation tools to optimize system performance and project cost.
• Construction Oversight: Supervise or support installation activities, review completed work, and verify compliance with design specifications, project requirements, and applicable codes.
• Testing and Commissioning: Test mechanical systems, identify deficiencies, make necessary adjustments, and confirm that systems operate safely and as intended.
• Maintenance and Optimization: Develop maintenance schedules, troubleshoot system issues, and recommend upgrades that improve reliability and energy efficiency.
• Sustainability: Incorporate energy-saving designs and renewable energy solutions where appropriate and support compliance with sustainability standards, including LEED requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from an ABET-accredited university.
• Relevant experience building systems, construction, design, installation oversight, testing and commissioning, or maintenance and optimization.  Engineer 3 – five to ten years of relevant experience; Engineer 4 – ten to fifteen years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and other mechanical systems.
• Proficiency with BIM software, CAD, and mechanical system performance calculation tools.
• Working knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, building codes, and construction practices.
• Strong communication, organization, problem-solving, and project coordination skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Registered as a Professional Engineer in the state of New Mexico or the ability to receive reciprocity within the introductory period.
• Experience coordinating mechanical systems within multidisciplinary construction projects.
• Familiarity with energy-efficient design, renewable energy integration, and sustainable building practices.
• Experience supporting commissioning, inspections, field verification, and contractor coordination.