Mechanical Plans Engineer, Entry

About the role

The Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI) is seeking a motivated Mechanical Plans Engineer, Entry to join our Land Use & Engineering Services Division. This entry-level role performs increasingly independent work reviewing mechanical and related environmental systems construction permit applications to ensure compliance with the Seattle Mechanical Code, the Seattle Energy Code, and departmental policies and objectives.

Positions at the entry level receive continuing supervision while developing proficiency with SDCI’s policies, codes, processes, and organizational structures. Work requires foundational knowledge of mechanical engineering principles and familiarity with HVAC and energy-conservation system design. Employees must apply independent judgment to interpret and apply general guidelines to specific situations.

You will be successful in this role if you can

• Review less complex mechanical, architectural, and environmental system designs for compliance with the Seattle Mechanical Code and Seattle Energy Code.
• Review residential building permit applications for compliance with the Seattle Residential Code and Seattle Energy Code residential provisions, including evaluation of building envelope components, mechanical system performance, and required energy-efficiency documentation.
• Resolve problems and assist architects, building owners, mechanical engineers, and mechanical contractors with technical advice on building envelope and equipment changes or alterations concerning code compliance.
• Communicate effectively with permit applicants to resolve design errors, provide advice and interpretation of regulations.
• Perform mechanical and energy calculations to verify adequacy of designs.
• Assist SDCI's building and mechanical inspectors in resolving problems encountered during field inspections.

Your effectiveness and ability to succeed in this position will be enhanced by your:

• Ability to work independently and under limited supervision.
• Ability to interpret and apply guidelines and specifications to resolve less complex energy and mechanical code problems.
• Excellent customer service and strong writing and communication skills.
• Working knowledge of computers including Outlook, Word, Bluebeam and Adobe Acrobat Professional

Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related field with significant mechanical engineering coursework
• One year of professional engineering experience.
• Any other combination of education, training and/or experience which provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class will be considered.

To be considered for this position, please submit the following with your online application:

• A cover letter in which you clearly describe how your knowledge, experience, skills, and abilities prepare you for the job responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the job advertisement
• A current resume outlining your professional work experience

Pay and benefits

The full salary range for this position is $53.03 - $61.68 per hour. New employees begin at Step 1 of the pay progression, which is $53.03 per hour. Current City employees starting rate of pay will be based on Personnel Rules regarding promotions.

This position would be required to meet current in-office requirements outlined by SDCI and the Mayor’s Office.

The Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections is a proud participant in the Race and Social Justice Initiative, a citywide effort to realize the vision of racial equity.

We require a strong commitment to customer service and a demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse communities and cultures. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences; people of color, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.