Lead Mechanical Engineer

Originally established in 1907 as an architectural practice, IDEA Inc. (IDEA) has evolved into a premier boutique, multi-disciplinary design firm offering fully integrated architecture and engineering services. The firm provides a holistic approach to high-performance building design, master planning, interior design, and project management across the Institutional, Commercial, and Industrial (ICI) sectors.

Following strategic expansion and growth, IDEA operates key offices in Ottawa and Sault Ste. Marie. IDEA has built its success upon a collaborative, high-accountability culture that balances vision and pragmatism with environmentally responsible design and technical excellence.

As IDEA continues to secure major federal, health, and institutional contracts, the firm is investing in the continued development of its Ottawa engineering practice. To support this expansion, the organization is seeking an ambitious, hands-on Mechanical Engineer / Department Lead who will take ownership of this mechanical discipline locally, and set the department up for long-term success.

Summary of the role

Reporting directly to the Engineering Manager, the Mechanical Engineer will have full ownership over mechanical design, project execution, and discipline development in Ottawa. Serving as the local technical anchor, the successful candidate will immediately dive into an active portfolio of building projects, managing them end-to-end from initial concept through final commissioning.

The position requires a strong balance between hands-on engineering and collaborative management. Key technical responsibilities will include performing load calculations, Revit drafting, writing system specifications, and designing code-compliant solutions across HVAC, plumbing, hydronics, refrigeration, controls, and fire protection systems. This role also involves conducting regular site surveys to assess existing building conditions, monitor contractor progress, answer technical requests, and witness commissioning.

Beyond individual design work, the position demands strong cross-functional coordination and will work closely in real time with internal architectural, interior design, and electrical teams to optimize building performance. Additional responsibilities will include client relationship management and serving as the primary mentor to a Mechanical Engineer-in-Training, and help shape the continued development of the mechanical discipline as IDEA’s Ottawa presence expands.

Is this for you?

This position is best suited to a Licensed Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) in Ontario, with an undergraduate engineering degree and 3 to 7+ years of building systems experience within a consulting or multi-disciplinary environment. Required technical skills include mastery across building mechanical systems, including HVAC, sheet metal, plumbing, hydronic systems, controls, BAS, and general fire protection design principles.

Essential qualifications include high proficiency in Revit, comfort producing design drawings independently, and eligibility for Canadian Government Security Clearances for federal projects. LEED certification or NetZero/Passive House familiarity would be considered an asset.

Beyond technical expertise, the position requires a highly personable, approachable, and energetic leader who thrives in a social and collaborative team setting. Strong interpersonal communication skills and an open-minded, creative problem-solving attitude are essential. The role involves navigating client-facing environments, building trust with external stakeholders and contractors, and mentoring junior staff through a patient, growth-oriented leadership style.