Mechanical Designer Co-op (Spring 2025)

Job DescriptionJob Description

POSITION SPECIFICATIONS

Position: Mechanical Designer Co-op

Department: Utilities & Central Energy (UCE)

Start Date: January 2025

COMPANY BACKGROUND

KFI Engineers is a recognized industry leader in facility infrastructure design and performance. Since 1996, our culture of collaboration and unique capabilities have allowed us to make a difference in the way infrastructure and processing projects are delivered.

Headquartered in St. Paul, MN, with numerous regional offices throughout the United States, and a team of hundreds of professionals, we offer opportunities to continue your career with mentorship programs, career growth support, and continued education. With KFI, we find a way to provide creative solutions to unique projects while providing the same care we would expect if we were the client. For more information about KFI Engineers and our culture, please visit www.kfi-eng.com.

POSITION OVERVIEW & RESPONSIBILITIES

At KFI, we view co-ops as an investment in our future. That means we need to help educate our co-ops in the way we do business, and expose them to a range of projects, work and industry sectors. Our co-ops are typically responsible for performing designer tasks, providing input and technical expertise, and working closely with management, project team, and clients.

Perhaps the best way to describe the culture and work environment at KFI is this statement from one of our past interns, now a full-time employee: “The engineering experience base at KFI is extensive and an ideal working environment to learn a great deal in a short amount of time. The people at KFI tend to jump at the opportunity to mentor or provide insight into the world we work in.”

This entry-level Electrical Designer Co-op provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in the field. The Designer plays a key role in successful execution of projects.

Specific responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Clean-up 2D drawing markups in AutoCAD.
• Model 3D structural, piping, electrical, and equipment elements used in design.
• Draft hand sketches into CAD drawings.
• Engage with other designers to learn drafting and project-related details and ask questions.
• Provide office/project support (plotting, scanning, document preparation).

QUALIFICATIONS

• Pursuing a two-year drafting degree/AAS degree or similar area of study.
• Working knowledge of design software (e.g. AutoCad, Revit etc).
• Displays professional ethics and complies with KFI policies and procedures.
• Treats people with respect; relates well to people regardless of their organization level, personality, or background.
• Proficient in use of MS Office (Word, Outlook, Excel).
• Writes and presents effectively; adjusts to fit the audience and the message.
• Organized and able to manage time effectively.
• Able to adapt to changing work demands and priorities.
• Professional, able to represent KFI in a professional manner.
• Willingness to travel if needed.

Working Conditions

• Occasionally, some work locations will feature the tough terrain typical of construction sites or require lifting or moving field testing equipment.

WORK PROJECTS BY PAST INTERNS/CO-OPS

• Developed engineering calculation tools that enhanced efficiency, consistency, and accuracy of various calculations.
• Performed in-depth analysis of actual heat loads in MCC rooms to understand cooling system design and efficiency and identify potential improvement areas.
• Designed and conducted a long-range Utility Study that included project planning, analysis and review of recommendations with customers.
• Conducted an extensive energy modeling study for a new high school, as well as a large shopping mall.
• Performed HVAC assessment and commissioning services for clients at diverse locations, including clinics, power plants, university buildings, and K-12 schools.
• Identified energy-wasting HVAC system deficiencies for clients by analyzing past utility usage and current equipment performance, and made recommissioning recommendations based on calculated projected energy savings and payback periods.
• Prepared an analysis of a ground-source heat pump system.
• Developed engineering calculation tools that enhanced efficiency and accuracy of various calculations.

CORE BEHAVIORS

Accountable

• Demonstrates persistence in the achievement of goals.
• Acts with a sense of urgency.
• Takes responsibility for own actions.

Business Focus

• Demonstrates agility, adapts well to changes.
• Works well under pressure.
• Meets commitments to internal/external customers.

Project Execution

• Plans projects well, managing last-minute rushes and disruptions.
• Balances Speed and Quality.
• Looks for improvement in our delivery, tools and processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Demonstrates Respect for Others

• Keeps others adequately informed.
• Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views.
• Adapts communication style and method based on audience and situation.

Team Player

• Balances team and individual responsibilities.
• Shares expertise with others.
• Inspires respect and trust.

Please note this job description 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.

KFI Engineers is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to , , , , , , , , or status as a protected veteran.