Research and development engineer jobs in Appleton, WI - 414 jobs

MSA Professional Services is looking for a Senior Project Engineer Mechanical to lead the design of HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical systems for K-12 schools, municipal buildings, and other commercial buildings. In this role, you will be a key contributor in developing energy-efficient, sustainable, and code-compliant mechanical designs for facilities that shape our communities-from classrooms and gymnasiums to fire stations and city halls. This role combines technical leadership with meaningful client engagement. You'll work closely with architects, other consulting engineers, and building owners to deliver systems that prioritize occupant comfort, indoor air quality, long-term operational efficiency, and community impact. Who we are: For over 100 years, MSA has helped shape communities through engineering excellence. What began in 1919 with a single practitioner in Baraboo, Wisconsin, has grown into a robust firm of over 500 employee owners across the U.S. Our purpose is simple: to make communities stronger, safer, and more sustainable. We believe in the power of relationships, trust, and doing the right thing - and we take pride in seeing our work come to life. At MSA, we understand that great work happens when you contribute great value, and maintain a balanced life and career. That's why we offer: Employee Ownership = True Investment: MSA is a 100% employee-owned firm. That means when you join our team, you're not just doing a job - you're building your legacy and sharing in the success of the firm. A Culture of Mentorship and Collaboration: Work alongside a talented, cross-disciplinary team that values mentorship, professional development, and team success. A flex time program that empowers you to manage your schedule - because life doesn't always fit inside 9 to 5 A flexible work environment, including hybrid and remote options where possible, to support your productivity and well-being Ready to Build Your Career with Purpose? If you're a curious, community-minded person who thrives in a collaborative environment and wants to own your work - let's talk. Responsibilities What you will do: Client Engagement & Collaboration Serve as the primary mechanical engineering contact for architectural K-12 and public-sector clients and building owners, guiding them through design decisions and system selections. Collaborate with architects, civil engineers, and other disciplines to integrate mechanical systems seamlessly into holistic building designs. Coordinate with utilities, permitting agencies, and code authorities to ensure timely approvals. Participate in public engagement and board meetings as needed for school or municipal projects. Mentor junior staff and share technical knowledge within internal Communities of Practice (COPs). Mechanical Systems Design Lead mechanical system design for a variety of building types, focusing on: HVAC systems (VAV, geothermal, VRF, DX, boilers, chillers, etc.) Ventilation and energy recovery systems Building automation and controls integration Domestic water, sanitary, and storm plumbing systems Energy efficiency and sustainability strategies (including IECC and ASHRAE compliance) Conduct load calculations, equipment sizing, pressure loss analysis, and energy modeling as needed. Develop detailed construction drawings and specifications using Revit, AutoCAD, and other design tools. Stamp and certify mechanical construction documents in support of permit submittals and construction. Project Management & Quality Oversight Review designs, respond to RFIs, and support construction-phase services. Provide accurate cost estimates and support scope development for new projects and proposals. Ensure high-quality deliverables through rigorous self-checks and peer reviews in accordance with MSA's QA/QC procedures. Organizational Impact Support MSA's strategic growth in the education and municipal markets by helping clients achieve energy performance goals and reduce lifecycle costs. Recommend process improvements and contribute to standardization of mechanical design practices across the firm. Qualifications What you bring: Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical building systems design. Experience with K-12 and/or municipal building projects preferred. Licensure & Certifications Professional Engineering (PE) license required. Ability and willingness to become licensed in additional states as needed. LEED AP, Certified Energy Manager (CEM), or related credentials a plus. Technical & Soft Skills Strong working knowledge of applicable codes and standards (IECC, IBC, ASHRAE 90.1, 62.1, and plumbing codes). Proficiency with Revit, Bluebeam, and mechanical system modeling/selections tools. Excellent communication skills for interfacing with clients, project teams, and stakeholders. Strong organizational and leadership skills; capable of managing multiple concurrent projects. Passion for mentoring and growing future engineering talent. The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future. We are unable to provide or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this role. Why MSA? Better Together: A collaborative environment that values open ideas, diversity, and authenticity. Our diverse perspectives fuel innovation and success in our employee-owned firm. Multi-disciplinary Opportunities: Follow your interests, explore new experiences, and apply your skills where they have the most impact. We've Got Your Back: Enjoy support when you need it and independence when you don't. We are 400+ strong, working as one cohesive team. Passion & Purpose: We're passionate about our work and proud of it! Share inspirations, "geek out," and think big with us. Pay & Perks: Competitive pay and unique perks that make MSA stand out. Communities of Practice: Our think tanks and idea generators-regular collaboration and learning opportunities. Work-Life Integration: Life doesn't stop when work begins. We support your professional and personal balance. Commitment to Learning: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and cutting-edge technology to keep you connected and creative. Community Engagement: Giving back through volunteering, education, STEM outreach, and event participation, backed by corporate sponsorship and donations. The salary for this position ranges from $88,871 to $142,195 per year commensurate with experience. Higher compensation within this range will be paid to candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications. Best-in-Industry Benefits - Eligible employees enjoy: Quality Insurance Options: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family Paid Time Off: Minimum of 17 days in the first year for full-time employees Paid Holidays: 8 holidays per year Paid Parental Leave: 2 weeks for both parents, with additional time for birth parents under MSA's Short Term Paid Leave Supplemental Insurance: 100% paid life, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): 100% employee-owned, with stock provided at no cost 401k Retirement Savings Plan: Generous employer match, immediately 100% vested Short Term Incentive (STIP) bonus MSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. At MSA, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at ************* Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer We can recommend jobs specifically for you! Click here to get started.