Plumbing Engineering - Designer I

Job Title: Plumbing Designer
Department: Design MEP West Coast
Reports to: Managing Director/Director
FLSA Status: This position may be classified as Hourly (non-exempt) or Salaried (exempt) based on the final compensation level. Classification will be determined in accordance with applicable California wage and hour laws, including minimum salary thresholds for exempt employees.
Salary Range: $60,000 - $70,000


GENERAL SUMMARY
The Plumbing Designer I supports the MEP team by producing construction documents and assisting with the design of plumbing systems for a variety of architectural and engineering projects. This entry-level professional applies fundamental engineering and design principles, develops technical skills, and gains exposure to multidisciplinary coordination. The Plumbing Designer I works under general supervision and is expected to steadily increase independence, accuracy, and efficiency.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements below represent the required knowledge, skill, and/or ability. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. General duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Plumbing Design & Technical Responsibilities

• Produce construction documents at an efficient pace while maintaining accuracy and quality.

• Design basic plumbing distribution systems, including domestic water, sanitary waste, vent, and storm systems, with minimal assistance.

• Read, interpret, and coordinate Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical drawings.

• Understand how plumbing systems function independently and in coordination with other building systems.

• Accurately indicate pipe sizes, materials, specifications, notes, and other required information on drawings.

• Apply applicable plumbing codes, standards, and jurisdictional requirements to designs.

• Perform calculations for system sizing, equipment selection, energy efficiency, and environmentally responsible building practices.

• Retain and apply technical knowledge gained from previous projects to new assignments.

Project Support & Documentation

• Assist in preparing and editing plumbing specifications with minimal assistance.

• Assist with reviewing and replying to RFIs, submittals, and shop drawings with minimal supervision.

• Perform site surveys and document existing conditions clearly and accurately.

• Conduct construction site observations and document findings in coordination with the project team.

• Support the project team in maintaining accurate and up-to-date documentation throughout all project phases.

Coordination & Communication

• Communicate clearly and concisely within the office and with project team members.

• Produce well-written professional communications, including emails and technical documentation.

• Ask thoughtful questions when encountering new system types or unfamiliar conditions.

• Understand client needs and bring issues or required actions to the attention of the project manager or engineer.

• Positively contribute to teamwork, collaboration, and a cooperative office environment.

Organization & Professional Development

• Organize, prioritize, and perform effectively while managing multiple projects and shifting deadlines.

• Demonstrate accountability for assigned tasks and deadlines.

• Show initiative in learning firm standards, project workflows, and best practices.

• Participate in ongoing professional development and technical skill building.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Fundamental understanding of plumbing systems and building construction.

• Ability to read and understand multi-discipline construction documents.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and quality.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Willingness to ask questions and learn new systems and technologies.

• Working knowledge of Revit and AutoCAD preferred.

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Exposure to plumbing calculation tools or engineering software is a plus.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Architecture, or a related field preferred.

• 1–3 years of plumbing design or related A/E firm experience, including internships or co-op experience.