Contract Computer Aided Design Designer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Project Engineer

M/E Engineering, a Salas O’Brien company

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

Job Summary:

The Project Engineer is responsible for supporting the design and execution of building systems projects by applying established engineering principles, evaluating technical design criteria, and contributing to the development of high-quality construction documents. This role performs engineering computations, assists in establishing design concepts and project scope, and prepares plans and specifications that meet project requirements and technical standards. The Project Engineer collaborates closely with senior engineers, designers, CAD operators, architects, and clients to ensure coordinated, efficient, and accurate work throughout all phases of design.

The position requires active involvement in project coordination, including supporting equipment selection and sizing, conducting project cost estimating, and reviewing the work of designers and CAD staff for completeness and accuracy. The Project Engineer participates in shop drawing review, resolves technical questions with guidance from senior staff, and contributes recommendations to improve engineering standards and design methodologies. This role builds technical depth, strengthens multidisciplinary collaboration skills, and develops a strong foundation for progression toward more senior engineering responsibilities.

Responsibilities:

• Provide suggestions for improvements of standards
• Review shop drawings
• Check work of designers and CAD operators
• Select and size equipment
• Coordinate between trades, architects, and clients
• Estimate project costs
• Perform engineering computations
• Establish project design concepts and scope
• Ensure accuracy of design, specifications, and drawings
• Supervise Designers and CAD Operators
• Prepare project plans and specifications

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or related engineering discipline required
• Effective communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively under the direction of senior engineering staff
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical decision-making skills
• Ability to review shop drawings, check design accuracy, and support quality control processes
• Experience coordinating with multidisciplinary teams including designers, CAD operators, architects, and clients
• Competency in performing engineering calculations and evaluating system sizing, layouts, and design criteria
• Strong understanding of engineering principles, system design concepts, and applicable codes
• Ability to prepare engineering plans, specifications, and technical documentation
• Two or more years of experience in building systems design or related engineering work
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) designation preferred, or ability to obtain

Location: Rochester or Buffalo, NY (on-site with hybrid possibilities 2 days at home)

Travel: Up to 25%

Compensation & Benefits:

The expected base salary range for this role is $72,500 - $87,360 USD per year, hourly, non-exempt. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

This role is also eligible for a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
• Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.

About Us:

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Third-Party Agency Notice

Salas O’Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.