Lead Mechanical Engineer – Utility Systems Design

Technical Source is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer – Utility Systems Design to support a regulated, large-scale biologics / industrial manufacturing operation in Clayton, North Carolina. This role is fully onsite and embedded within the engineering organization, with immediate accountability for owning, operating, and advancing multiple critical utility systems.

This is a hands-on role for a senior engineer who can step in on Day 1 and fully own at least two core utility systems, from existing design through modification, expansion, and ongoing implementation, with minimal ramp-up.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years of industrial mechanical engineering experience, has led full system design through implementation, and is comfortable operating in an active, regulated manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as Lead Mechanical Engineer with full technical ownership of multiple utility systems, including:
  • Chilled Water, Steam, Heating Hot Water, Compressed Air, Natural Gas, Plumbing
• Immediately assume responsibility for at least two utility systems above with prior experience owning those systems end-to-end.
• Lead system design, modifications, expansions, and optimization efforts within an operating facility.
• Develop and review code-compliant drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
• Perform equipment sizing and selection (chillers, boilers, cooling towers, compressors, receivers, tanks, skids).
• Review bids, evaluate contractor submittals, and support FATs for critical equipment.
• Provide field support during construction, answer RFIs, and ensure work aligns with design intent.
• Support startup, commissioning, and turnover of utility systems.
• Act as utility systems SME, analyzing existing infrastructure and supporting new or changing production demands.
• Collaborate closely with maintenance, operations, and project teams in a fast-paced environment.

Required Experience & Qualifications

• 8+ years of industrial mechanical engineering experience (6+ minimum considered).
• Direct ownership of full system design through implementation for at least two of the following:
  • Steam
  • Chilled Water
  • Heating Hot Water
  • Compressed Air
  • Natural Gas
  • Plumbing
• Experience in regulated manufacturing environments (biotech, biologics, pharma, chemical, or similar) strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to step into existing systems and take ownership immediately.
• Strong working knowledge of industrial codes and standards.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (or equivalent experience); ability to pursue NC PE preferred.
• Experience supporting construction, commissioning, and operational turnover.
• HVAC experience and tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, Plant 3D, or PipeFlo are a plus, but not required.

Key Words: Industrial utility systems, Mechanical utilities, Steam system design, Chilled water, Heating hot water, Compressed air, Natural gas, Plumbing design, HVAC, AutoCAD, Revit, PipeFlo, Plant 3D, PE license, Mechanical, Pharmaceutical, Oil and gas, GMP, P&ID, FDA, Piping, FAT, Turnover package, Construction