Principal Engineer - Mechanical (Jacksonville, FL)

MSA Professional Services is looking for a Principal Engineer - Mechanical to lead the design and delivery of complex mechanical systems that support critical infrastructure and built environment projects. As a Principal Engineer, you will guide projects from concept through construction, serve as a trusted advisor to clients and stakeholders, and drive technical excellence, innovation, and quality across multidisciplinary teams—all while helping shape the future of the communities we serve.

This role is based out of our Jacksonville, Florida office and plays a critical role in advancing technical excellence, driving innovation, and supporting strategic growth across the organization.

The Principal Engineer works closely with leadership, project managers, multidisciplinary teams, and clients to guide complex projects, establish design standards, and ensure high-quality, forward-thinking engineering solutions.

Overview

At MSA, we believe great people build great communities. As a 100% employee-owned firm, our teammates share in the success of the company while working together to deliver impactful solutions for the communities we serve. We foster a collaborative environment where curiosity, innovation, and professional growth are encouraged.

Technical Leadership & Design Excellence

• Serve as the technical authority for complex mechanical systems including wastewater treatment processes, pumping systems, and related infrastructure
• Lead design strategy and provide oversight for high-risk, high-complexity projects and project portfolios
• Review and approve advanced engineering calculations, reports, and construction documents
• Establish and maintain firm-wide best practices, standards, and design approaches
• Drive innovation through evaluation and implementation of emerging technologies, tools, and methodologies

Project & Client Leadership

• Serve as a trusted advisor and senior technical representative to municipal clients, partners, and regulatory agencies
• Lead or support proposal development, client presentations, and project pursuits
• Define project strategies, scopes, and technical approaches for complex infrastructure projects
• Ensure successful project delivery through oversight of scope, schedule, budget, and quality
• Represent MSA in high-level client meetings, public forums, and industry events

Business Development & Strategic Impact

• Contribute to business development strategy and client relationship growth
• Support strategic planning efforts and firm-wide initiatives
• Provide technical leadership in pursuits, interviews, and proposal development
• Enhance MSA’s industry presence through participation in conferences, professional associations, and thought leadership

Mentorship & Team Development

• Mentor and coach engineers across all experience levels, supporting technical growth and leadership development
• Provide guidance on complex engineering challenges and project execution strategies
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance development of engineering staff
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program

Experience

• 20+ years of relevant post-graduate engineering experience
• Extensive experience in municipal infrastructure, water/wastewater treatment, and pumping systems
• Proven experience leading complex, multidisciplinary engineering projects

Skills

• Expert knowledge of mechanical engineering systems related to the built environment.
• Strong leadership and strategic thinking capabilities
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and client relationship skills
• Ability to influence technical direction across teams and projects
• Strong understanding of project financials, risk management, and delivery strategies

Licensure

• Professional Engineer (PE) license required in FL
• Multi-state licensure preferred

BEST-IN-INDUSTRY BENEFITS

The salary for this position ranges from $112,000 to $179,500, with higher compensation possible for candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.

• Better Together – A collaborative work environment that promotes open doors, new ideas, and honest opinions.
• Multi-disciplinary Opportunities – As multi-talented people in a multi-disciplinary firm, we encourage employees to explore interests, seek new experiences, and apply their skills where they can make the greatest impact.
• We’ve Got Your Back – Support when you need it and independence when you don’t.
• Commitment to DEIB – We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work and where diverse perspectives drive innovation.
• Passion & Purpose – We are passionate about what we do and proud of it.
• Communities of Practice – Our Communities of Practice bring together experts across disciplines to collaborate, share knowledge, and generate new ideas.

Additional Benefits

Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependents
• Paid Time Off – Minimum of 17 days in the first year
• Paid Holidays – 8 holidays annually
• Paid Parental Leave – 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parents
• Employer-Paid Insurance – Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage
• Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP) – Annual performance-based bonus opportunity

MSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.

Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer