Key Skills

Job Description

We are currently looking for a freelance Senior HVAC Engineer Arcadis is looking for an experienced Senior HVAC/Mechanical Engineer to support multidisciplinary engineering projects within the pharmaceutical and life-sciences industry. The engineer will support projects from Concept and Basis of Design through Detailed Design, tendering and awarding, construction support and commissioning. The role covers brownfield modifications to existing facilities and new installations, ranging from relatively small equipment or system modifications to more complex HVAC, cleanroom and utility system projects. The engineer will be part of the back-office engineering team, working directly with the Arcadis on-site Managed Engineering Services (MES) team. The engineer is expected to work independently at Senior Engineer level, take full ownership of assigned HVAC/Mechanical activities and deliver the required work with limited supervision, while coordinating effectively with the on-site team, clients, contractors and multidisciplinary engineering teams. Key responsibilities Typical responsibilities include: Review client design guidelines, User Requirement Specifications (URS), applicable standards and existing system information to establish HVAC and mechanical design requirements. Develop HVAC and mechanical designs through Concept, Basis of Design and Detailed Design phases, including relevant calculations and system sizing. Prepare and review engineering deliverables including equipment selections, calculations, datasheets, specifications, design narratives, P&IDs, schematics, layouts, Basis of Design documents and Scope of Work documents. Coordinate HVAC and mechanical services within plantrooms, technical spaces and distribution routes, considering constructability, accessibility and future maintenance. Coordinate with Architecture, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Process, Automation/BMS, BIM and other relevant disciplines, including coordination within the 3D/BIM environment. Undertake site surveys and assess existing installations to obtain the information required for engineering design. Provide technical support during construction, including site verification, review of contractor documentation and resolution of technical queries. Support testing, commissioning and handover activities where required. Contribute to the development of project proposals and technical scopes where applicable. Relevant HVAC and Mechanical Systems The engineer should have experience with a range of HVAC and associated mechanical utility systems, which may include: HVAC HVAC systems and sustainable design in accordance with applicable project requirements. Cleanroom and controlled-environment HVAC. Temperature, humidity and room-pressure control. Air distribution and ductwork systems. HVAC control and Building Management System (BMS) interfaces. Mechanical / Utility Systems Chilled water systems. Low Temperature Hot Water systems. Steam and condensate systems. Associated pumps, heat exchangers and mechanical equipment. Experience and Qualifications The candidate should have: A degree or equivalent technical qualification in Mechanical Engineering, HVAC or a related discipline. At least eight years of relevant HVAC/Mechanical engineering experience, with demonstrated ability to work independently at Senior Engineer level. Experience across multiple project phases, from Concept and Basis of Design through Detailed Design, construction support and commissioning. Strong knowledge of HVAC systems and associated mechanical utilities, including the preparation and review of calculations, specifications, datasheets, P&IDs, layouts and technical documentation. Experience coordinating with clients, contractors and multidisciplinary engineering teams. Experience within the pharmaceutical or life-sciences industry, including cleanroom or other technically regulated environments. Experience with brownfield modifications to existing operational facilities. Experience with BIM/3D multidisciplinary coordination. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English. A practical approach to design, constructability, operation and maintenance. A valid VOL-VCA certificate, or willingness and availability to obtain the certification before undertaking site activities. Working Arrangements The role will be based primarily at the Arcadis Leiden office, working as part of the back-office engineering team in direct coordination with the on-site MES team. Attendance at the client site will be required for surveys, inspections, technical coordination and other project activities. The engineer is expected to work a minimum of three days per week from the Arcadis Leiden office and must remain flexible to attend the client site as required by project needs.

Core Responsibilities

Develop and coordinate HVAC and mechanical designs and engineering deliverables across project phases, from concept and design through construction support and commissioning. Conduct site surveys, coordinate with clients and multidisciplinary teams, and provide technical support for brownfield modifications and new installations.

Requirements

Requires a degree or equivalent technical qualification in mechanical engineering, HVAC, or a related discipline, with at least eight years of relevant experience and the ability to work independently at senior level. Candidates should have pharmaceutical or life-sciences experience, including cleanrooms and brownfield projects, BIM coordination skills, strong English communication, and a valid VOL-VCA certificate or willingness to obtain one.