Electrical Department Head - Mission Critical Focus

Who we are!

Vanderweil Engineers is a nationally recognized, top-ranked engineering firm specializing in MEP/FP and technology services. For over 75 years, we've delivered innovative solutions across diverse sectors—including Science & Technology, Mission Critical, Academic, Healthcare, and Commercial. As one of the largest independently owned engineering firms in the U.S., our team of 500+ professionals operates from nine offices nationwide, bringing deep expertise and a commitment to excellence to every project.

We are seeking a seasoned Electrical Engineer to serve as Electrical Department Head for our Boston office. This is a high-impact leadership role for an accomplished professional who wants to shape technical excellence, mentor talent, and influence the direction of complex, high-profile projects across mission critical and commercial markets.

Some of your responsibilities include the following:

• Lead projects in the production of engineering solutions for large scale and complex data centers, and commercial projects; corroborates/coordinates with other design team members including client, site/civil and mechanical engineers to ensure electrical systems are integrated with the project’s goals.
• Lead the design and execution of medium voltage (typically 5kV to 35kV) distribution systems for critical infrastructure, industrial plants, or utility substations. Responsible for ensuring system reliability through detailed protection schemes and power system studies. 
• System Design: Develop detailed engineering designs for MV systems, including the selection and specification of transformers, switchgear, breakers, and cables.
• Protection Schemes: Design and implement protection and control (P&C) schemes. This includes developing protective relay settings (e.g., SEL or Basler) and creating relaying diagrams and control schematics.
• Prior experience in utility-scale microgrids or renewable energy interconnection.
• Execute electrical designs in accordance with the Electrical Department’s Procedures and Standards and specific client standards where applicable. 
• Understanding of electrical distribution equipment and workspace requirements; general power associated with mission critical data centers and experience with office, laboratories, schools; lighting layout, circuitry and lighting controls.
• Use Revit to model electrical system components in accordance with the departments and client’s procedures and standards 
• Prepare backup documentation to support design efforts including but not limited to load calculations, voltage drop calculations, lighting power density using ComCheckEZ and lighting illumination levels. 
• Maintains strong understanding of applicable Codes and Standards
  

Essential Skills & Requirements:

• 15+ years of experience designing Electrical systems in high performance facilities including measurable data center experience. 
• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or equivalent experience
• Working knowledge of Revit / BIM is required.
• Communication, interpersonal, problem solving and analytical skills.
• Experience with mission critical data centers is required.
• Professional commitment to sustainability, LEED accreditation is a plus.
• A Professional Engineering (PE) license is necessary as you will be the engineer on record for several projects.

Our Flexible & Hybrid Work Culture

We know that work/life integration is important to our employees.  Our hybrid work style (up to 2 days remote per week) allows team members to have flexibility while building their skills through in-person exposure to industry experts. 

We prioritize wellness with programs that support physical and behavioral health, and we’re proud to foster an equitable and inclusive workplace.

Learn more about our culture at www.vanderweil.com.

This is a high visibility role and the total compensation that we expect to pay for this position is dependent on years of experience, credentials, education, and project portfolio but is expected to be in the $175,000.00 to $225,000.00 range.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-birtwell/