HVAC Principal Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: HVAC Principal Designer

Company: iParametrics LLC

Location: Greenville, SC, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Engineering / Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-11T14:54:00

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for designing and developing complex HVAC systems, focusing on precision and adherence to stringent federal and industry standards within a nuclear facility context.

• The position requires advanced proficiency in Computer Aided Design (CAD) and 3D modeling software, specifically S3D, to create detailed technical documentation and models.

• Responsibilities include translating engineering concepts into tangible design drawings, conducting field walk-downs for accurate system assessment, and managing project timelines and resource allocation.

• The HVAC Principal Designer will play a key role in ensuring regulatory compliance by integrating knowledge of Department of Energy (DOE) Orders and other applicable codes into the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw job description uses the title "HVAC Principal Designer," the core responsibilities and requirements lean heavily into a broader "Engineering Design Operations" or "Technical Design" function, specifically within a highly regulated sector like nuclear facilities. The emphasis on CAD, 3D modeling, field validation, and project coordination aligns with operations roles focused on the execution and delivery of complex engineering projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Originate and produce HVAC design drawings and 3D models of moderate to advanced complexity using CAD applications, ensuring adherence to project specifications and engineering requirements.

• Execute 3D modeling tasks, with a preference for proficiency in S3D software, to create detailed visualizations and facilitate clash detection and constructability reviews.

• Interpret engineering designs and technical documentation to generate new drawings, modify existing ones, and perform field walk-downs with minimal supervision to validate design accuracy and gather site-specific data.

• Review and approve design work performed by other designers, providing constructive feedback and ensuring consistency and quality across all deliverables.

• Develop and manage project-related estimates, schedules, and staffing requirements, contributing to effective project planning and resource management.

• Prepare progress reports, track key quantities, and define the project scope of services and facilities to ensure alignment with client objectives and project milestones.

• Ensure all designs comply with federal (including Department of Energy Orders), state, and local codes and standards applicable to specialized engineering design, particularly within a nuclear environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are typical for a senior-level design professional with significant operational oversight. The emphasis on "walking down field systems," "interpreting field direction," and "directing, checking, and approving work done by other designers" highlights an operational management aspect beyond pure design, requiring strong project execution and quality assurance skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Associate degree preferred, coupled with significant relevant experience.

Experience: A minimum of fifteen (15) years of experience in drafting and design related to Engineering and Construction, with a strong preference for nuclear-related projects.

Required Skills:

• U.S. Citizenship: Must be a United States citizen due to the federal nature of the work.

• Federal Code Knowledge: Working knowledge of federal (including Department of Energy Orders), state, and local codes and standards applicable to specialized engineering design.

• CAD Proficiency: Highly skilled in Computer Aided Design (CAD) applications for originating and producing drawings and 3D models.

• 3D Modeling: Demonstrated experience with 3D modeling, with S3D preferred, for generating complex models.

• Design Interpretation & Generation: Ability to read, interpret, and generate design drawings of moderate to advanced complexity with minimal supervision.

• Field Validation: Capability to conduct field walk-downs, interpret field direction, and generate advanced design details based on site conditions.

• Design Modification: Proficiency in modifying existing drawings and creating new ones to reflect project requirements and field findings.

• Design Oversight: Ability to direct, check, and approve work performed by other designers.

• Project Estimation: Experience in developing estimates for project scope, schedule, and staffing.

• Reporting: Skills in preparing progress reports and tracking key project quantities. Preferred Skills:

• Nuclear Engineering Design: Specific background and experience in engineering fields such as mechanical, electrical, structural, communications, architectural, fire protection, or civil, with a focus on nuclear applications.

• Project Scope Definition: Ability to define project scope of services and scope of facilities.

• Associate Degree in Drafting: Formal education in drafting or a related field.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for U.S. Citizenship is a critical qualification for roles involving sensitive federal projects, particularly in the defense and energy sectors. The combination of extensive experience and specific code knowledge, especially DOE Orders, points to a role requiring deep domain expertise and regulatory awareness, common in operations within government-contracted environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex HVAC design projects, detailing the scope, challenges, and your specific contributions.

• For each project, include examples of original design drawings, 3D models (screenshots or walkthroughs), and any relevant calculations or specifications you developed.

• Demonstrate your experience with S3D or similar 3D modeling software through visual examples of model complexity and detail.

• Highlight projects where you performed field walk-downs and incorporated site conditions into the final design, providing before-and-after comparisons if possible.

• Include examples of project documentation such as estimates, schedules, or progress reports you were responsible for creating or managing. Process Documentation:

• Provide evidence of your process for translating engineering requirements into detailed design documents, including workflow diagrams or descriptions.

• Illustrate your method for checking and approving the work of other designers, detailing quality assurance steps and feedback mechanisms.

• Showcase your approach to ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local codes, including specific examples of how you integrated DOE Orders into your design process.

• Demonstrate your process for managing project timelines and resource allocation, showing how you contribute to efficient project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: For senior design and operations roles, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. The emphasis on 3D modeling, field integration, and regulatory compliance suggests that a portfolio should not only showcase technical output but also the candidate's ability to manage complex processes and ensure adherence to stringent operational and safety standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the Principal Designer title, 10+ years of specialized experience, and the Greenville, SC location, the estimated salary range for this role is approximately $90,000 - $130,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering design roles in specialized sectors like nuclear construction and government contracting, considering the high demand for candidates with DOE Order experience.

Benefits:

• Full-time employment benefits package typically includes:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage for employees and dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided coverage.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning, certifications, and training relevant to nuclear engineering and design.

• Per Diem/Travel Allowance: May be provided for any required travel or fieldwork.

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week, typically Monday through Friday. Overtime may be required based on project demands and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data for Mechanical Engineers and Drafters, adjusted for the specific experience level (10+ years, Principal level) and the specialized nature of nuclear/DOE projects. Greenville, SC, is a moderate cost-of-living area within the Southeast region. Benefits are standard for full-time roles in engineering firms supporting government contracts.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Government Services. iParametrics LLC likely operates within sectors requiring highly specialized technical expertise, such as government contracting, defense, energy, and infrastructure.

Company Size: As an LLC supporting large projects like the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility (SRPPF) for Fluor, iParametrics LLC is likely a specialized firm, potentially ranging from 50-250 employees, focusing on niche engineering and design services.

Founded: Information not directly provided, but the nature of their work suggests an established company with a proven track record in complex project execution.

Team Structure:

• The HVAC Principal Designer will likely be part of a larger engineering or design department, possibly within a dedicated project team for the SRPPF.

• This team may include other designers, engineers (mechanical, electrical, structural), project managers, and discipline leads.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a direct report to a Lead Designer, Engineering Manager, or Project Manager, with close collaboration with Fluor project stakeholders. Methodology:

• Emphasis on rigorous design processes, adherence to strict quality control measures, and compliance with all applicable codes and standards.

• Data-driven decision-making, utilizing CAD and 3D modeling tools for design validation and clash detection.

• Collaborative approach to problem-solving, involving cross-functional teams to address complex engineering challenges.

• Focus on safety, security, and regulatory compliance, especially given the nuclear nature of the SRPPF project.

Company Website: https://www.iparametrics.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The context implies a professional, deadline-driven environment focused on precision and compliance. Company culture likely values technical expertise, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic, especially when supporting large-scale government or industrial projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Principal Designer signifies a senior-level position, indicating extensive experience, deep technical expertise, and often, leadership or mentorship responsibilities within a specific discipline (HVAC design in this case). This role is a key contributor to project success and operational efficiency in design delivery.

Reporting Structure: The Principal Designer will likely report to an Engineering Manager or Project Lead, and will be responsible for overseeing and guiding the work of junior designers and drafters within their discipline. Collaboration with multidisciplinary engineering teams and client representatives (Fluor) is expected.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts project timelines, budgets, and the successful execution of the SRPPF project by ensuring that HVAC designs are accurate, compliant, and constructible. Effective design operations contribute to reduced rework, improved safety, and timely project completion.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to move into roles such as Lead Designer, Engineering Manager, or Project Manager, overseeing larger teams and broader project scopes.

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in nuclear facility design, specific HVAC technologies, or advanced modeling techniques, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gain experience and knowledge in other engineering disciplines through collaboration on complex projects.

• Professional Development: Access to training, certifications, and potentially, support for advanced degrees to further enhance technical and leadership capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: A "Principal" title in design operations typically indicates a career path that emphasizes technical mastery and influence. Growth opportunities often involve increasing scope of responsibility, team leadership, and strategic contributions to project delivery and operational improvement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Greenville, SC, and will likely involve working in a professional office environment typical of engineering and design firms. This environment is expected to be collaborative and equipped with necessary design software and hardware.

Office Location(s): Greenville, SC. This location offers a balance of professional opportunities and quality of life.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect to work closely with a team of engineers, designers, and project managers. Open-plan offices or shared workspaces are common, facilitating communication and knowledge sharing.

• Technology & Tools: Access to high-performance workstations, advanced CAD and 3D modeling software (S3D), and other relevant design and project management tools.

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional discussions to ensure alignment and address project challenges. Field visits to project sites may also be required.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week (Monday-Friday). The demands of project deadlines may occasionally require overtime or flexible scheduling to meet critical milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment for a Principal Designer in this sector is typically structured and focused on delivering high-quality technical output. While collaboration is key, the emphasis will be on efficient workflow and adherence to project schedules, necessitating a professional and productive workspace.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and qualifications by HR or a recruiter to ensure basic requirements (U.S. Citizenship, experience level, core skills) are met.

• Technical Interview: This will involve in-depth discussions with engineering leads or hiring managers regarding your HVAC design expertise, CAD/S3D proficiency, understanding of codes (DOE Orders), and experience with similar projects. You may be asked to walk through specific examples from your portfolio.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you present selected projects from your portfolio, explaining your design process, problem-solving approaches, and the outcomes achieved. Be prepared to discuss technical details and project challenges.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions assessing your teamwork, leadership potential, problem-solving skills, and ability to work under pressure.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior management or project leadership to discuss cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful HVAC design projects, prioritizing those with complexity, significant challenges, and successful outcomes.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions, responsibilities, and the impact of your work on the project's success. Use "I" statements for individual contributions and "We" for team efforts.

• Showcase Technical Depth: Include high-quality visuals of design drawings, 3D models (S3D preferred), and any technical documentation you created. Explain the design rationale and problem-solving steps.

• Demonstrate Compliance: Specifically point out how you incorporated federal, state, and local codes, including DOE Orders, into your designs.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate efficiency gains, cost savings, or improvements in design accuracy.

• Prepare a Narrative: Be ready to walk through your portfolio items with a clear, concise story that highlights your skills and experience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical HVAC design problem for a nuclear facility, considering safety, regulatory, and operational constraints.

• Prepare to explain your process for troubleshooting a complex design issue or resolving a conflict between engineering requirements and site conditions.

• Practice articulating your design philosophy and how you ensure quality and efficiency in your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Principal Designer role, especially in a sensitive sector, will be rigorous. A well-prepared, visually rich portfolio that showcases technical acumen, problem-solving skills, and regulatory awareness is paramount. Focus on demonstrating practical application of skills and the ability to manage complex design operations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Expert proficiency in industry-standard CAD platforms.

• 3D Modeling Software: Advanced skills in 3D modeling, with a strong emphasis on S3D (SmartPlant 3D) being a preferred requirement. This includes capabilities for creating detailed models, performing clash detection, and generating isometric views.

• HVAC Design Tools: Familiarity with specialized HVAC design and analysis software (e.g., for load calculations, duct sizing, system performance simulation).

• Documentation & Collaboration: Tools for document management, version control, and team collaboration (e.g., SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, project-specific platforms).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Skills in utilizing project management and reporting tools to track progress, manage schedules, and generate key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design delivery.

• Ability to interpret and report on design metrics, such as drawing completion rates, clash resolution progress, and adherence to budget. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design documentation integrates with broader project management systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with any automation features within S3D or other design tools that streamline workflows and improve efficiency.

• Experience with project-specific software used for managing workflows, approvals, and engineering data.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of S3D is a critical technical requirement. Proficiency in this specific 3D modeling platform is likely non-negotiable and should be heavily emphasized in applications and portfolios. Beyond S3D, general CAD and project management tool familiarity is expected.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision and Accuracy: A core value in design operations, especially for nuclear projects, where errors can have significant consequences. Expect a culture that emphasizes meticulous attention to detail.

• Safety and Compliance: Paramount importance placed on adhering to all safety protocols and regulatory requirements (DOE Orders, federal, state, local codes).

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Encouragement of cross-functional teamwork to solve complex problems and ensure integrated design solutions.

• Efficiency and Timeliness: A strong focus on meeting project deadlines and delivering high-quality work within established timelines.

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset of seeking opportunities to optimize design processes and enhance technical capabilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with engineers from other disciplines (electrical, structural, mechanical), project managers, safety officers, and potentially, client representatives from Fluor.

• Process Review Culture: Regular design reviews and feedback sessions are standard to ensure quality and alignment. Open communication and constructive criticism are encouraged.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across the team to foster collective growth and project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style are heavily influenced by the high-stakes nature of working on federal projects, particularly in the nuclear sector. Expect a structured, professional environment where teamwork, adherence to protocol, and technical excellence are highly valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Ensuring strict adherence to evolving federal (DOE Orders), state, and local codes and standards within a nuclear facility context.

• Managing Design Complexity: Handling intricate HVAC system designs for a specialized facility like the SRPPF, requiring deep technical knowledge and meticulous planning.

• Field Integration: Effectively translating design requirements into reality by accurately assessing and integrating field conditions, which can be dynamic and challenging.

• Stakeholder Coordination: Balancing the needs and expectations of multiple stakeholders, including iParametrics management, Fluor, and potentially government oversight bodies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Nuclear Design Specialization: Deepen expertise in HVAC design for nuclear environments, gaining invaluable experience in a niche and critical field.

• Advanced Modeling Techniques: Become proficient in advanced features of S3D and other modeling software, enhancing design efficiency and visualization capabilities.

• Project Management Skills: Develop stronger project planning, scheduling, and resource management skills through hands-on experience.

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue relevant certifications in engineering, design, or project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges in this role are directly tied to the complexity and regulatory environment of nuclear facility design. Growth opportunities focus on deepening specialized expertise and expanding project management capabilities, which are highly valued in this sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing an HVAC design package for a complex industrial or nuclear facility. How do you ensure compliance with DOE Orders and other regulations?"

  • Preparation: Outline your step-by-step design methodology, emphasizing phases like conceptualization, detailed design, review, and finalization. Clearly articulate how you integrate regulatory requirements and conduct field validations.

• "Walk me through a challenging 3D modeling project you completed using S3D. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them to achieve a successful design?"

  • Preparation: Select a project where you faced significant technical hurdles or had to resolve complex clashes. Be ready to discuss specific S3D features you utilized and the problem-solving steps you took.

• "How do you approach directing and checking the work of other designers? What criteria do you use to ensure quality and consistency?"

  • Preparation: Explain your QA/QC process, including the standards you apply, the types of checks you perform, and how you provide constructive feedback to junior team members.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working on the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility project and iParametrics LLC?"

  • Preparation: Research iParametrics LLC's involvement in government projects and their specialization. Connect this to your career aspirations and interest in high-impact engineering work.

• "How do you handle tight deadlines and pressure in a project environment?"

  • Preparation: Provide specific examples of how you've managed demanding schedules and prioritized tasks effectively, highlighting your organizational skills and ability to maintain quality under pressure.

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with engineers from different disciplines to solve a design problem. What was your role, and what was the outcome?"

  • Preparation: Prepare a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) answer that demonstrates your cross-functional collaboration skills and ability to contribute to integrated solutions.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Presentation: Begin with an overview of your career and key strengths, then dive into 2-3 of your most relevant projects. For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the challenges, your design process, the tools used (especially S3D), and the final outcome.

• Visual Aids are Key: Use high-resolution screenshots of drawings and 3D models. Consider a brief, pre-recorded walkthrough of an S3D model if feasible.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., "reduced installation time by 15%," "met all regulatory requirements with zero violations").

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate technical questions about specific design choices, code interpretations, or software functionalities.

• Showcase Your Problem-Solving: Frame your project examples around challenges you faced and how you creatively and effectively solved them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical proficiency but also your understanding of the operational context—the regulatory environment, project delivery pressures, and collaborative needs inherent in large-scale engineering projects. Your portfolio is your primary tool for showcasing this.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 15+ years of experience in engineering design, specifically mentioning CAD, S3D, and any nuclear or federal project experience. Emphasize your knowledge of DOE Orders and other relevant codes.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile your design portfolio, ensuring it includes examples of complex HVAC designs, S3D models, field integration work, and evidence of compliance with federal regulations. Organize it for clear presentation.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio walkthrough and answers to common interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the operational context of nuclear facility design.

• Research iParametrics LLC and Fluor: Understand the company's mission, their role on the SRPPF project, and the broader implications of working within the nuclear energy sector. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.