Benefits:

401(k)

Competitive salary

Dental insurance

Employee discounts

Flexible schedule

Health insurance

Opportunity for advancement

Paid time off

Training & development

Vision insurance

Wellness resources

Job Title: Director of Plumbing Engineering

Location: Full-time, on-site in Downtown San Diego, 92101

About Us:

120 Degreez MEP Engineering Firm is a leading provider of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering solutions across California and beyond. We specialize in designing innovative and sustainable systems for commercial, multifamily, mixed-use, life science, and industrial developments. Our firm is dedicated to engineering excellence, environmental sustainability, and superior client service—delivering designs that meet the highest standards of performance, efficiency, and constructability.

Job Description:

The Director of Plumbing Engineering is responsible for leading and managing the firm’s plumbing engineering discipline. This senior leadership position oversees design quality, technical innovation, project delivery, and team development within the plumbing department. The Director ensures all designs comply with California building codes and sustainability standards while fostering collaboration across disciplines and maintaining strong client relationships.

This role represents a unique opportunity for a technical expert and proven leader to shape the future of plumbing design excellence at 120 Degreez.

Responsibilities:

Leadership & Department Management

Lead the Plumbing Engineering Department, ensuring project quality, efficiency, and alignment with company goals.

Establish and maintain departmental design standards, documentation procedures, and best practices.

Oversee departmental budgeting, staffing, scheduling, and resource planning to meet profitability and workload targets.

Support business development efforts by providing technical input for proposals, interviews, and client presentations.

Technical Oversight

Provide technical leadership, review, and approval of plumbing system designs, drawings, and specifications.

Ensure full compliance with applicable codes and standards, including:

Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)

California Building Standards Code (Title 24 – Energy & Green Building Standards)

NFPA Requirements

ASPE and ASHRAE Guidelines

LEED / CALGreen / HCAI (OSHPD) requirements, as applicable

Develop and evaluate system layouts for domestic water, sanitary waste and vent, storm drainage, natural gas, medical gas, and specialty systems.

Troubleshoot complex design or construction challenges and provide solutions aligned with performance and budget goals.

Champion sustainable and water-conserving designs, including greywater systems, low-flow technologies, and renewable system integration.

Project Oversight & Coordination

Oversee plumbing scopes for major or technically complex projects across multiple sectors.

Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, structural, architectural, and civil teams to deliver coordinated, integrated MEP solutions.

Implement and enforce QA/QC procedures to ensure design accuracy, completeness, and constructability.

Participate in project kick-offs, design reviews, and construction coordination meetings to ensure design intent and client satisfaction.

Team Development

Mentor and train plumbing engineers and designers to promote growth, technical competency, and leadership readiness.

Lead recruitment and hiring for the plumbing discipline; conduct performance evaluations and career development planning.

Encourage knowledge sharing, continuing education, and professional licensure among staff.

Client & Stakeholder Relations

Serve as the primary technical contact for plumbing-related issues with clients, consultants, contractors, and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs).

Address escalated project challenges with proactive solutions and maintain long-term client partnerships.

Represent 120 Degreez at industry events, conferences, and professional associations such as ASPE or ASHRAE.

Compliance & Risk Management

Review contracts to ensure plumbing scopes and deliverables are clearly defined and risks are appropriately managed.

Maintain thorough project documentation to mitigate risk and uphold quality standards.

Promote and enforce safety and regulatory compliance across all projects.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Plumbing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s preferred).

Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in plumbing engineering, including 5 years in a senior leadership role.

Active California PE license required.

Demonstrated success managing teams and delivering large, complex projects from concept through construction.

Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and plumbing design software tools.

In-depth knowledge of California Plumbing Code, Title 24, NFPA, ASHRAE, and sustainability standards.

Strong leadership, communication, and client-management skills with proven ability to inspire and guide high-performing teams.

Strategic mindset with a passion for innovation, quality, and mentorship.

Benefits:

Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.

401(k) retirement plan.

Paid Time Off (PTO) and company holidays.

Flexible work schedule in a supportive, collaborative environment.

Employee Assistance Program.

Professional development and continuing education support.

Opportunities for advancement and leadership within a growing firm.

Join Our Team At 120 Degreez MEP Engineering, innovation and technical excellence define who we are. We are seeking a visionary Director of Plumbing Engineering to lead our department, elevate design standards, and drive the next generation of sustainable and high-performance plumbing systems. If you’re a dynamic leader with a passion for excellence, collaboration, and mentorship—apply today to join our team.

Other Information 120 Degreez is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering diversity and inclusion. We prohibit discrimination and harassment based on any protected characteristic as defined by federal, state, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.