JOBSEARCHER

Senior Mechanical Engineer

PaePortland, TNApril 27th, 2026
The Opportunity PAE is looking for a seasoned Mechanical Engineering Leader to manage projects, guide technical design work, and strengthen both client relationships and internal operations. This role oversees project teams, budgets, forecasting tools, and quality management while serving as Lead Engineer or Engineer of Record. It also plays a key role in improving company processes, mentoring staff, supporting business development, and representing PAE in client and industry settings.Ideal candidates hold a mechanical engineering degree, a relevant professional credential, and bring 10+ years of industry experience with proven leadership, strong people skills, and the ability to deliver profitable, well‑managed projects.Who We ArePAE is an engineering and design firm that turns complex challenges into reality. By leveraging the latest technologies, we solve problems in unique ways, and our designs enable buildings and communities to be more resilient and efficient. PAE is trusted by our clients in every aspect of a project's lifespan, from idea to occupancy. We set ambitious goals backed by analysis to significantly conserve water and energy while balancing costs and long-term operational needs. As a B Corp, we measure success by the benefits our projects provide to our clients, our communities, and our planet. We embrace innovation, transparency, sustainability, and lifelong curiosity.What You'll DoProject team leadership and management, responsible for completing the project on time within budgetResponsible for the preparation of deliverable documents including narratives, calculations, drawings and specificationsMay be responsible as a Project Manager of the Engineer of Record (EOR) with approvalAttend client meetings, lead the coordination effort between external and internal project teamsIndependently evaluate and apply engineering judgment, techniques, and procedures to complete a project from concepts through constructionProficient in mechanical system design, HVAC, Plumbing, Fire Protection and Energy ModelingAssemble effective project teamsDevelop project workplans, tasks and assignments for the teamThorough understanding of interdisciplinary coordinationAdvanced understanding of the application of building codes and mechanical industry standardsOversee engineering calculations and equipment selectionPerform site visits and issues reportsProvide training, guidance and mentorship for staffProvide updates to master specifications and standards, and improve company processesDevelop client relationshipsOversee the application of the project quality management plan (QMP)Perform other duties as assignedWhat You BringBachelor’s degree in engineering for discipline workRelevant professional credential (i.e., PE)Requires a minimum of 2-4 years as a Mechanical Lead or 5-10 years’ related work experienceMust have experience in a leadership role Inspire and motivate staffServe as a technical resource for the companyAdvanced understanding of mechanical engineering concepts, able to effectively communicate design optionsAble to assemble and run a teamStrong delegation skillsAttention to detail and advanced organizational skillsMicrosoft Office SuiteRevit/AutoCADWhat We Offer Hiring Base Salary Range: $106,800-$142,400 annualThis position is eligible for time and a half overtime payThe base salary is one component of PAE’s competitive compensation package for employees. We take into consideration a variety of factors including but not limited to skills, abilities, experience, education, credentials, internal equity and geographic location in determining exact salary offered. At PAE, roles are eligible for additional rewards, including salary increases and annual bonuses based on individual performance. The above range represents PAE's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.In addition, PAE offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following: Employer paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision) Annual 401k profit sharing based on company profit for the year and account contribution Professional development reimbursements including state registration and professional association dues Employer paid commuter/parking stipendCell phone stipend Life insurance and disability benefits Hybrid work schedule Employee Assistance Program 9 paid holidays including an additional employee-selected dayPaid time off for sick leave, family leave, community service, holidays and vacationTo learn more about our comprehensive benefits package, visit  https://www.pae-engineers.com/careers/benefits. This information is provided per the Equal Pay ActOur commitment to pay equity PAE is a JUST label certified company; we demonstrate JUST label requirements within pay equity. Pay scales should meet or exceed applicable legislated wage requirements and industry standards and compensate, on the same basis, all individuals performing the same or similar work and work of equal value. We are committed to the principle of pay equity – paying employees equitably for substantially similar work. To learn more about pay equity and our commitments to equitable business practices, you may view our JUST label certification here: Living Future: Just Label Certification.To find out more visit our website.What We’re Made OfFounded in 1967, PAE is a leading sustainable engineering and consulting firm on a mission to deliver clean air, energy, and water for all. We specialize in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering, building performance analysis, technology design, and lighting design (LUMA). PAE designs some of the nation's highest-performing and most regenerative built environments across the U.S., from Living Buildings to all-electric buildings and beyond. Learn more at pae-engineers.com.Our portfolio includes over 100 LEED Platinum projects as well as dozens of projects that have either achieved or are pursuing the Living Building Challenge, Passive House, Architecture 2030, Carbon Neutral, Net Zero Energy, and Net Zero Water.Fine Print Please note that resumes received from third party recruiters or agencies will not be accepted unless requested directly by PAE Talent Acquisition and with a prior signed fee agreement. If candidates without a previously signed recruiter fee agreement are submitted, PAE reserves the right to engage with and hire those candidate(s) without any obligation financial or otherwise to the recruiter or agency.In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at PAE will be based on merit, qualifications and abilities. PAE does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, gender (sex), national origin, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical characteristics historically associated with race, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.PAE will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship. This policy governs all aspects of employment including: selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination and access to benefits and training.