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High Performance Building Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experience and interest in sustainable and high-performance building design (energy, water, carbon, occupant health and wellness, resiliency) * Motivated individual interested in growth containing a ...

Experience and interest in sustainable and high-performance building design (energy, water, carbon, occupant health and wellness, resiliency) * Motivated individual interested in growth containing a ...

The highly skilled High Performance Computing Engineer to design, implement, and maintain advanced computing solutions in support of mission-critical operations. * The ideal candidate will bring deep ...

We are looking for an experienced High-Performance Technician who thrives on building, troubleshooting, and perfecting modified vehicles. This is not a routine service or oil-change role -- it ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Austin, TX · Hybrid

$110K - $170K/yr

Perform HVAC technical analyses, calculations, and system evaluations to support high-performance building design * Coordinate closely with architects, interior designers, electrical engineers, fire ...

We take a design-forward approach, focusing on sustainability to create thoughtful designs across ... Collaborate with the design team to track building performance goals related to energy/carbon ...

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High Performance Building Design information

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$156.5K

$168K

How much do high performance building design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for high performance building design in the United States is $167,842.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $167,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between High Performance Building Design vs Building Energy Modeler?

AspectHigh Performance Building DesignBuilding Energy Modeler
CredentialsLEED AP, WELL AP, or similar certificationsCertified Energy Manager (CEM), LEED AP
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, architecture firms, sustainability consultanciesEnergy analysis firms, consulting agencies, architectural firms
Industry UsageDesigning sustainable, efficient buildings from concept to completionCreating energy models to optimize building performance

High Performance Building Design focuses on creating sustainable, energy-efficient buildings through integrated design strategies, while Building Energy Modelers specialize in developing detailed energy simulations to evaluate building performance. Both roles often collaborate but serve different stages of the design process, with the former emphasizing holistic design and the latter providing technical energy analysis.

What is high performance building design?

High performance building design involves creating buildings that optimize energy efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort through advanced planning, materials, and systems. Professionals in this field often use tools like energy modeling and pursue certifications such as LEED to ensure standards are met. It requires knowledge of building science, environmental considerations, and integrated design processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in High Performance Building Design, and why are they important?

To excel in High Performance Building Design, you need advanced knowledge of sustainable architecture, energy modeling, and building science, often backed by a degree in architecture or engineering. Familiarity with tools such as Revit, EnergyPlus, and certifications like LEED or WELL are commonly expected. Strong collaboration, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are critical for coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and clients. These skills ensure that buildings meet stringent performance standards, optimize resource efficiency, and promote occupant well-being.

Will architects be in demand in 2030?

Architects specializing in high performance building design are expected to remain in demand through 2030 due to increasing focus on sustainable and energy-efficient construction. Skills in green building standards, building information modeling (BIM), and sustainable materials will enhance job prospects in this field.

What building jobs pay the most?

In high performance building design, senior roles such as Building Design Director, Sustainability Director, or Lead Architect typically earn the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require advanced skills, certifications like LEED AP, and extensive experience in sustainable and energy-efficient building practices.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by professionals in High Performance Building Design, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in High Performance Building Design often face challenges such as balancing sustainability goals with budget constraints, integrating advanced technologies, and ensuring compliance with evolving building codes. Effective collaboration with architects, engineers, and stakeholders is crucial to address these challenges. Staying updated on the latest materials, software tools, and industry best practices also helps in designing innovative, energy-efficient buildings that meet both client expectations and regulatory standards.

What is the highest paid architecture job?

In high performance building design, senior roles such as Principal Architect or Design Director tend to be the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced knowledge of sustainable and energy-efficient design practices.
More about High Performance Building Design jobs
Infographic showing various High Performance Building Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $167,842 per year, or $80.7 per hour.

Mechanical Project Manager (Building Design)

Michael Baker International, Inc.

Waltham, MA • On-site

$98K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Michael Baker International rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 356 rated engineering


Job description


INTEGRATED DESIGN & ADVISORY (IDA)
Integrated Design and Advisory (IDA) is Michael Baker International's national architecture and engineering business vertical, integrating architecture, engineering, federal planning, and strategic advisory services in support of complex buildings and critical infrastructure programs. With professionals located across the country, IDA serves a broad range of public- and private-sector clients, including federal agencies, defense, aviation, data centers, healthcare, higher education, rail and transit, and industrial markets.
Our integrated approach emphasizes early collaboration across planning, architecture, and core engineering disciplines-including mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural, fire protection and cybersecurity-supported by advisory services delivered throughout the project lifecycle. Building on Michael Baker International's more than 85-year legacy, IDA supports the firm's long-term growth strategy through technical excellence, informed decision making, and practical solutions focused on high-performance buildings, intelligent systems, secure digital environments, and critical infrastructure.
DESCRIPTION
Are you a seasoned Mechanical engineering Project Manager looking to make a meaningful impact? We're seeking a driven and experienced Mechanical Project Manager (Building Design) who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. In this role, you'll serve as a technical expert, lead complex projects, and mentor junior engineers-contributing to innovative solutions and driving engineering excellence across multidisciplinary teams.
You'll play a key role in shaping the future of our built environment by leading the design of advanced mechanical systems and cultivating strong relationships with clients and partners. Working alongside a talented team of engineers, architects, and designers, you'll help bring sustainable, high-performance buildings to life.
Technical Expertise & Design Excellence
  • This is a seller doer technical leadership role for a client facing engineer who enjoys driving work, delivering complex building designs, and growing long term relationships. The role combines hands on engineering, project delivery, and business development in a fast paced, collaborative environment
  • In this role, you will serve as a Designer of Record (DOR) and trusted technical advisor, combining hands on engineering with project leadership, client engagement, and pursuit support. You will collaborate closely with clients and internal teams to deliver high performance mechanical systems in high reliability environments while helping grow repeat and new business.
  • Lead mechanical design projects as Designer of Record (DOR), ensuring technical accuracy and code compliance.
  • Perform detailed technical analysis and calculations to support high-performance, energy-efficient building systems.
  • Conduct internal technical reviews (ITRs) of peer design projects to uphold quality standards and consistency.
  • Survey existing equipment and site conditions to inform design decisions and validate system integration.
  • Develop and review technical specifications and written narratives as part of comprehensive project deliverables.
  • Review shop drawings and submittals, respond to RFIs, and conduct site visits during construction to ensure design intent is maintained.
  • Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and code developments in HVAC and plumbing engineering.

Project Lead & Client Engagement
  • Lead prepositioning efforts alongside local business developers to establish early alignment with clients on new opportunities.
  • Engage with local clients as account manager, where needed, to cultivate a professional business relationships.
  • Define scope of work, develop pricing and man-hour estimates, and prepare technical documentation for proposals and project planning.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to seamlessly integrate mechanical designs with architectural and other engineering systems.
  • Manage project budgets and schedules, ensuring deliverables meet quality standards and client expectations.
  • Maintain strong client relationships, contributing to high satisfaction ratings and performance scores (e.g., CPARS).
  • Communicate technical concepts clearly and consistently with internal teams, clients, and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and collaboration.
  • Participate in client discussions and project meetings, presenting design concepts and making adjustments to align with client goals.
  • Support business development efforts, including proposal writing, client engagement, and strategic planning.

Team Development & Operational Support
  • Provide ongoing technical mentorship and leadership, supporting staff in design best practices, project planning, and client engagement.
  • Deliver targeted training sessions to enhance team capabilities and promote continuous learning.
  • Participate in internal and external technical development activities, contributing to team growth and knowledge sharing.

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical or Architectural Engineering (Mechanical Focus).
  • Professional Engineering (PE) license.
  • 10 years of related professional experience in mechanical building systems design.
  • Strong knowledge of HVAC systems and controls design.
  • Extensive experience with technical writing, including specifications and narratives.
  • Proficient in applicable codes and standards, including IMC, IBC, IPC, ASHRAE, and other mechanical/plumbing design manuals.
  • Experience with Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD for mechanical system design and documentation.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and PDF software such as Adobe or Bluebeam.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and deliver high-quality work efficiently.
  • Strong communication skills to interface effectively with internal teams, clients, subcontractors, and vendors.
  • Ability to mentor and supervise junior engineers and provide technical training.
  • Availability to occasionally travel to project locations.

Other preferred skills and experience include:
  • Familiarity with Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) and Unified Facilities Guide Specifications (UFGS) applicable to mechanical and plumbing engineering
  • Department of Defense (DoD) project experience
  • Federal Design-Build experience
  • Plumbing design experience
  • Knowledge of sustainable design practices and green building certifications
  • Familiarity with acoustics, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality considerations in mechanical design
  • LEED Certification (LEED GA, LEED AP, etc.)

COMPENSATION
The salary range for this position is $120,000- $190,000. The actual salary offered will be dependent on the preferred candidate's experience, expertise, and physical location.
WORKPLACE FLEXIBILITY
This is a hybrid position, available in our Boston, MA, or Rocky Hill, CT, offices.
BENEFITS
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability
  • Professional and personal development
  • Generous paid time off
  • Commuter and wellness benefits

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About Us
Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management, has been solving some of the world's most complex infrastructure challenges for more than 85 years with a legacy of expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.
Based in Pittsburgh and with over 100 offices nationwide, we partner with clients on everything from roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit, and airports, to water treatment plants, arctic oil pipelines, environmental restoration and specialized overseas construction. We serve as a trusted adviser to the communities we serve, making them safer, more accessible, more sustainable and more prosperous.
We provide visionary leadership in facilitating transformational change for our clients. Our work delivers differentiating innovations and dedicated experts who challenge the status quo and share a world of diverse experience and an impassioned entrepreneurial spirit. We deliver quality of life.
We Make a Difference.
Michael Baker International is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Michael Baker International provides equal employment opportunity for all persons, in all facets of employment. Michael Baker International maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified and all will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other legally protected status.
EEO is the Law. Applicants to and employees of Michael Baker International are protected under Federal law from discrimination.
*It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
*There is no current application deadline. Michael Baker will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or no longer needed.

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