HVAC Principal Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: HVAC Principal Designer

Company: WASEYABEK DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LLC

Location: Greenville, SC, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Engineering & Design Operations

Date Posted: April 27, 2026

Experience Level: 15+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for advancing engineering design operations within a federal contracting environment, focusing on HVAC systems.

• The position demands expertise in 3D modeling and CADD automation for intricate design projects, emphasizing efficiency and compliance.

• It involves significant cross-functional coordination, bridging technical design with procurement, construction, and client relations.

• The Principal Designer will be instrumental in ensuring project execution aligns with scope, cost, and schedule baselines, leveraging deep technical knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "Principal Designer" combined with the required 15 years of experience and mention of "intermediate complexity" assignments suggests a senior individual contributor role with a strong emphasis on technical leadership and design execution rather than direct people management. The focus on federal contracting implies a need for strict adherence to regulations, quality standards, and documentation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and meticulously check HVAC system designs of intermediate complexity using advanced 3D modeling and 2D CADD automation tools.

• Coordinate and resolve technical design issues with interdisciplinary teams, project management, external vendors, and clients to ensure seamless project progression.

• Execute all design work in strict adherence to the Project Quality Plan and established company procedures, ensuring deliverables meet high standards.

• Ensure design activities are performed in accordance with the approved project scope, cost estimates, and schedule baselines, maintaining project integrity.

• Conduct detailed bulk material take-off analysis and create accurate tabulations to support procurement and project budgeting.

• Provide critical technical support for equipment and material procurement processes, including the thorough review of vendor submittals for compliance and quality.

• Offer essential technical support during the construction administration phase, including timely and accurate responses to construction requests-for-information (RFIs) and field change directives.

• Perform 3D modeling of HVAC equipment and ductwork, ensuring spatial coordination and constructability.

• Develop detailed 2D duct plans, sections, details, and HVAC schedules directly from the 3D model to support construction documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on design role with significant coordination and support functions. The emphasis on "intermediate complexity" suggests that while foundational design principles are key, the role also involves tackling more challenging aspects of system design and integration, particularly within the context of federal projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressive, work-related experience specifically in designing HVAC systems.

• Demonstrated experience providing Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services on industrial projects.

Required Skills:

• HVAC System Design: Deep technical expertise in designing complex HVAC systems for various applications.

• 3D Modeling & CADD Automation: Proficiency in utilizing 3D modeling software and 2D Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) automation tools for engineering design.

• Technical Design Execution: Ability to prepare and check designs of intermediate complexity with precision and efficiency.

• Code & Standards Compliance: Working knowledge of applicable federal (including Department of Energy orders), state, and local codes and industry standards relevant to HVAC design.

• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Strong ability to communicate and coordinate technical issues effectively with other disciplines, project management, vendors, and clients.

• Material Take-off: Skill in performing bulk material take-off analysis and tabulations accurately.

• Procurement & Construction Support: Experience providing technical support for procurement activities and construction administration, including RFI responses.

• Project Execution: Ability to execute work in compliance with approved project scope, cost, and schedule baselines, and Project Quality Plans.

Preferred Skills:

• Intergraph Smart3D (S3D): Advanced knowledge and proficiency using Intergraph Smart3D software with a minimum of 3 years of dedicated experience.

• Nuclear Facility Design: Experience with the design of systems, structures, and components for nuclear facilities, specifically under the requirements of ASME NQA-1.

• EPC Project Experience: Proven experience in EPC projects for industries including U.S. Department of Energy or other federal agencies, nuclear facilities (under QA programs), manufacturing, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology.

• Commercial Availability & Cost: Knowledge of the commercial availability and cost implications of various materials.

• Federal Contract Compliance: Familiarity with federal contract compliance requirements, as WFS is an SBA 8(a) small business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The 15-year experience requirement positions this as a senior-level role, likely requiring a deep understanding of design principles, best practices, and common challenges in HVAC engineering. The emphasis on specific software like Intergraph Smart3D and specialized experience in nuclear or federal projects indicates a need for candidates with niche, high-demand skills. U.S. Citizenship is a non-negotiable requirement, common in federal contracting.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Examples: Showcase a range of HVAC design projects, clearly detailing the scope, your specific contributions, and the design methodologies employed.

• 3D Modeling & CADD Outputs: Include visualizations, drawings, and schedules generated from 3D modeling and CADD software, demonstrating proficiency and attention to detail.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Present case studies or examples of how you have addressed complex technical challenges in HVAC design, emphasizing innovative solutions and their impact.

• Code & Standards Application: Demonstrate how you have applied relevant federal, state, local codes, and industry standards (e.g., ASME NQA-1, DOE orders) in your design work.

• Coordination & Collaboration: Illustrate instances of successful technical coordination with other disciplines, clients, or vendors, highlighting communication strategies and conflict resolution.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Provide examples of documented design workflows you have developed or optimized, focusing on efficiency gains and quality improvements.

• Material Take-off & Procurement Support: Showcase documentation related to material take-off analysis and your role in reviewing vendor submittals, highlighting accuracy and compliance.

• Construction Administration Support: Include examples of how you have documented and responded to RFIs or field changes, demonstrating responsiveness and technical accuracy.

• Quality Assurance Adherence: Present evidence of your commitment to quality, such as adherence to Project Quality Plans or participation in design reviews.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Principal Designer role, the portfolio should not just list projects but demonstrate a deep understanding of the process behind the design. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their design process, explain their rationale for tool selection, and articulate how they ensure compliance and efficiency. Highlighting experience with specific federal agency requirements or nuclear quality assurance (ASME NQA-1) will be critical for portfolio review.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.

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

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Standard employer-provided coverage.

• Potential for Performance Bonuses: Based on individual and company performance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, there may be occasional flexibility required to meet project deadlines or client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry data for similar roles and locations. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and interview performance. Benefits are typical for a full-time professional role in the engineering sector, but candidates should verify specific details with the employer.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Federal Contracting, Engineering Services, Design, Construction Support. Waséyabek Federal Services (WFS) operates as a Native American SBA 8(a) small business, specializing in providing support services to federal agencies. This context implies a strong emphasis on compliance, quality, and reliable project delivery.

Company Size: WFS is part of Waséyabek Development Company, LLC, which manages a portfolio of companies. While specific WFS size isn't detailed, being an SBA 8(a) firm suggests a focused operational team, likely scaling with project needs.

Founded: Waséyabek Development Company, LLC was founded to diversify income for the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP) beyond gaming. This background suggests a company with strong financial backing and a long-term vision for growth and stability.

Team Structure:

• The HVAC Principal Designer will likely be part of a larger Engineering or Design department, reporting to a Discipline Lead Engineer or Design Supervisor.

• This role requires extensive collaboration with other engineering disciplines (e.g., structural, electrical, mechanical), project managers, procurement specialists, and construction teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using project data, client requirements, and regulatory standards to inform HVAC design decisions.

• Process Optimization: Focus on efficient design workflows, leveraging CADD and 3D modeling tools to improve accuracy, reduce rework, and meet project timelines.

• Quality Assurance Focus: Strict adherence to established quality plans and procedures, crucial for federal contracts and specialized industries like nuclear.

Company Website: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=5330343c-20f8-4939-818b-05c605dedc1e

📝 Enhancement Note: WFS's tribal ownership and SBA 8(a) status are significant cultural and operational differentiators. This often means a commitment to community, ethical business practices, and leveraging unique advantages within federal contracting. The "well-funded" nature suggests stability and capacity for significant projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Principal Designer role, indicating a senior individual contributor position. It sits at the top of the technical design career path, often preceding or running parallel to management roles. It requires a high degree of autonomy, technical expertise, and problem-solving capability.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a Discipline Lead Engineer or Design Supervisor. This structure allows for technical guidance and oversight while empowering the Principal Designer to lead complex design efforts. Collaboration with Project Managers and other discipline leads will be frequent.

Operations Impact: The HVAC Principal Designer's work directly impacts project success by ensuring functional, compliant, and efficient building systems. Their designs influence project cost, schedule, quality, and long-term operational performance. In federal contracting, accurate and compliant designs are critical for avoiding costly delays, rework, and contractual penalties.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like nuclear HVAC systems, energy efficiency, or advanced modeling techniques.

• Design Leadership: Progress to lead design efforts on larger, more complex projects, potentially overseeing teams of designers.

• Mentorship & Training: Develop skills in mentoring junior engineers and designers, contributing to the team's overall technical development.

• Project Management Transition: With additional experience, opportunities may arise to transition into project management roles, leveraging strong technical understanding.

• Subject Matter Expertise: Become a recognized Subject Matter Expert (SME) within the company for HVAC design, consulted on high-priority projects and initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" title implies that career growth may focus more on expanding technical influence and expertise rather than moving into traditional management roles, although that path could exist. The company's structure as a holding company for various businesses might also offer diverse internal opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position, indicating a traditional office-based engineering environment. Expect a professional setting focused on collaborative design work.

Office Location(s): Greenville, SC. This location provides access to a growing industrial and manufacturing hub in the Southeast.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Spaces: The workspace likely includes areas conducive to team collaboration, design reviews, and cross-disciplinary discussions.

• Technology Access: Employees will have access to necessary workstations equipped with advanced CADD and 3D modeling software, as well as standard office productivity tools.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with fellow designers, engineers, project managers, and potentially clients or vendors during design phases.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Occasional overtime may be required to meet critical project deadlines, a common aspect of federal contracting and project-based work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for roles demanding intensive collaboration and use of specialized hardware/software. Greenville, SC, offers a reasonable cost of living and a developing business environment, making it an attractive location for engineering professionals.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview: Expect a detailed interview with the hiring manager (Discipline Lead Engineer or Design Supervisor) and potentially senior technical staff. This will focus heavily on your HVAC design experience, technical knowledge, and problem-solving abilities. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and technical challenges.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session will likely be scheduled to review your professional portfolio. This is where you'll present your work, explain your design process, and demonstrate your capabilities with 3D modeling, CADD, and code compliance.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions may assess your ability to collaborate, communicate, handle pressure, and align with company values. Situational questions might involve how you'd handle specific design conflicts or RFI scenarios.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership or a project director, focusing on strategic alignment and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your HVAC design expertise, particularly those relevant to federal contracting, industrial, or nuclear environments if applicable.

• Detail Your Process: For each project, clearly articulate your design methodology, the tools and software used (especially 3D modeling and CADD), and how you ensured compliance with codes and standards.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., energy savings, cost efficiencies, reduction in rework).

• Showcase Coordination: Include examples or explanations of how you effectively coordinated with other disciplines and stakeholders.

• Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to answer in-depth questions about your design choices, problem-solving approaches, and technical decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Prepare to discuss hypothetical HVAC design challenges related to federal projects, complex systems, or code compliance issues.

• Software Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with specific CADD and 3D modeling tools, potentially including a brief demonstration or detailed explanation of your workflow.

• Code Application: Review key HVAC codes and federal requirements (DOE orders) relevant to the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and specific technical skills like Intergraph Smart3D and ASME NQA-1 suggests the interview process will be highly technical. Candidates should be prepared to defend their design decisions and demonstrate a deep understanding of engineering principles and project execution within a regulated environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling Software: Proficiency in industry-leading 3D modeling platforms is essential. Specifically, Intergraph Smart3D (S3D) is a preferred tool, requiring at least 3 years of experience. Other relevant tools may include Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or similar platforms for clash detection and visualization.

• 2D CADD Automation Tools: Expertise in AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar CADD software for creating detailed drawings, plans, sections, and schedules. Automation features within these tools are expected.

• HVAC Design Software: Familiarity with specialized HVAC design and analysis software (e.g., HAP, Trace 700, IES VE) for load calculations, system performance analysis, and energy modeling.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Material Take-off Tools: Software or advanced spreadsheet techniques for performing accurate bulk material take-offs.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management platforms (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) for understanding and adhering to project schedules.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate technical reports, design summaries, and RFI responses using standard office productivity suites.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates into broader project management and procurement systems is beneficial.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for managing design documents, revisions, and submittals in a structured and compliant manner.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for facilitating interdisciplinary communication and document sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Intergraph Smart3D is a key differentiator. Candidates without this specific experience may struggle, even with strong general 3D modeling skills. This tool is prevalent in large-scale industrial and federal projects, especially those involving complex infrastructure.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Compliance: A strong commitment to ethical conduct and strict adherence to all federal regulations, codes, and project quality plans.

• Technical Excellence: A dedication to producing high-quality, accurate, and efficient designs through meticulous work and continuous learning.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where cross-disciplinary communication and problem-solving are paramount.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of design responsibilities and ensuring successful project outcomes within scope, schedule, and budget.

• Client Focus: Understanding and meeting client needs, delivering exceptional service and building lasting relationships through reliable performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands proactive engagement with project managers, engineers from other disciplines, procurement, and construction teams to ensure design alignment and constructability.

• Open Communication: Encouraging a culture where questions, concerns, and feedback are shared openly and constructively to improve designs and processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise, mentor junior staff, and contribute to the collective technical knowledge base of the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given WFS's tribal ownership and federal contracting focus, expect a culture that values respect, long-term relationships, and operational excellence. The "Principal" designation suggests a culture that respects deep technical expertise and empowers senior individuals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Federal Requirements: Navigating and applying intricate federal regulations, DOE orders, and potentially nuclear quality assurance (ASME NQA-1) standards can be demanding.

• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Managing design conflicts and ensuring seamless integration with other engineering disciplines in complex projects requires strong communication and negotiation skills.

• Tight Project Deadlines: Federal projects often have stringent timelines, requiring efficient design processes and the ability to perform under pressure.

• Evolving Technology: Keeping abreast of advancements in 3D modeling, CADD automation, and HVAC technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific CADD/3D modeling software, particularly Intergraph Smart3D.

• Specialized Industry Training: Access to courses and certifications relevant to federal contracting, nuclear facilities, or advanced HVAC technologies.

• Mentorship Programs: Learning from experienced engineers and design leads within the organization.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of federal and industrial projects provides broad learning experiences and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly linked to the specialized nature of the work. Growth opportunities should focus on leveraging these challenges as learning experiences to build further expertise, particularly in high-demand areas like federal nuclear design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to designing HVAC systems for federal facilities, considering specific regulatory requirements (e.g., DOE orders).

• Explain how you manage technical coordination and resolve design conflicts with other engineering disciplines and stakeholders in a project environment.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Waséyabek Federal Services, its mission, and its connection to the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi. Be ready to articulate why you are interested in working for a tribal-owned business.

• Discuss your understanding of federal contracting environments and your experience working within such frameworks.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your proposed solution, the design process (emphasizing your role and tools used), and the outcome.

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly point out where your portfolio demonstrates proficiency in 3D modeling (especially S3D), CADD automation, code compliance, and material take-offs.

• Be Ready to Deep Dive: Anticipate detailed questions about your design choices, software workflows, and any challenges encountered.

• Showcase Compliance: If applicable, highlight projects that adhere to strict standards like ASME NQA-1 or specific federal agency requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Principal" title and specific technical requirements, expect interviewers to probe deeply into your technical decision-making process, your understanding of design standards, and your ability to manage complex project elements. Demonstrating an understanding of the company's unique positioning as a tribal-owned federal contractor will be advantageous.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this HVAC Principal Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP WorkNow link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize your 15+ years of HVAC design experience, highlighting proficiency in 3D modeling, CADD automation, and any experience with federal projects, nuclear facilities, or specific software like Intergraph Smart3D. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest HVAC design projects. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your technical skills, adherence to codes and standards (especially federal/DOE/ASME NQA-1 if applicable), and your process for design execution and coordination.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Waséyabek Federal Services, its mission, and its parent company, Waséyabek Development Company, LLC. Understand their role in federal contracting and their tribal ownership.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse walking through your portfolio, clearly articulating your design process, technical decisions, and problem-solving strategies, especially for any technical interview or portfolio review stages.

⚠️ 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.