Specialist Lab Piping Designer

About the role

You own the end-to-end design of critical fluid and gas distribution infrastructure that directly supports nuclear fuel enrichment operations. You will architect the routing and containment systems that ensure high-purity gases and liquids are delivered with absolute reliability to sensitive processes. This role requires you to act as the primary technical authority for lab piping, balancing intricate mechanical details with the broader facility systems. You will ensure that every joint, valve, and fitting meets the stringent standards required for hazardous and inert media. Your work will define the functional integrity of wet labs, cleanrooms, and high-security industrial zones. You are responsible for translating complex engineering requirements into precise 3D models that prevent conflicts and ensure constructability. Ultimately, you safeguard the facility's operational continuity by designing piping systems that are safe, compliant, and resilient under demanding conditions.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and engineer comprehensive laboratory piping systems, including high-purity specialty gases such as N2, compressed air, vacuum, and RODI (Reverse Osmosis/Deionized) water systems.
• Prepare high-fidelity design packages in Revit, owning the 3D coordination of sloped waste lines, gas manifolds, and overhead service carriers within complex ceiling voids.
• Specify materials and components appropriate for the medium, ranging from orbitally welded stainless steel for high-purity gases to acid-resistant neutralized waste piping for wet labs.
• Develop P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams) and flow schematics that define system logic, pressure regulation, and emergency shut-off protocols.
• Lead multidisciplinary coordination to ensure piping routes do not conflict with structural bracing, HVAC ductwork, or electrical busways, maintaining strict architectural clearances.
• Ensure code compliance with NFPA 45 (Standard on Fire Protection for Laboratories using Chemicals), NFPA 99 (Health Care Facilities Code), and ASME B31.3 (Process Piping).
• Support construction and commissioning by performing submittal reviews and technical field inspections to verify the integrity of specialized joints and purges.
• Analyze system performance metrics to identify potential points of failure and drive proactive design improvements.
• Collaborate with process engineers to optimize pressure drop and flow characteristics across distributed network nodes.
• Document design decisions and revision histories to maintain clarity for future modifications and audits.
• Interface with external regulators and auditors to ensure all submitted drawings reflect the most current code and project standards.
• Implement sustainable piping strategies that reduce material waste and energy consumption across the facility lifecycle.
• Coordinate with security teams to ensure that sensitive infrastructure layouts are protected in accordance with project protocols.
• Provide technical mentorship to junior designers, fostering a culture of precision and accountability within the Facility Design team.
• Participate in on-site design reviews to validate as-built conditions and resolve discrepancies before final acceptance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or Architecture.
• 8+ years of experience in specialized piping design for R&D, healthcare, or semiconductor facilities.
• Advanced proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD, specifically in creating parametric pipe types and complex 3D assemblies for laboratory equipment.
• Deep technical knowledge of laboratory-grade plumbing, gas cabinet integration, and high-purity water generation.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, balancing the precision of micro-level piping details with the scale of massive industrial facility design.
• Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, pressure systems, and vacuum technology as applied to sensitive process environments.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and quality, with a meticulous approach to detail in high-consequence scenarios.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the capacity to navigate complex technical constraints without compromising regulatory compliance.
• Willingness to engage in continuous learning to keep pace with evolving standards in nuclear fuel infrastructure.
• Valid driver's license and ability to pass a background check if required for site access.
• Physical ability to review detailed drawings and travel to project sites as necessary.
• Compliance with all company policies regarding confidentiality and information security.
• Readiness to adhere to strict project timelines and deliverables in a mission-driven environment.

Nice to have

• Professional Engineer (PE) or AIA license is highly preferred.
• Experience with BIM automation (Dynamo or Python) to streamline pipe routing and automated pressure drop calculations.
• Prior experience in nuclear or pharmaceutical environments, where containment and high-integrity piping are mission-critical.
• Familiarity with seismic bracing for piping systems in high-seismic zones.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex P&IDs into clear architectural layouts for project stakeholders.

Practical notes

• Hours: Standard full-time schedule expected.
• Travel: Travel may be required to project sites as needed.
• Visa: Sponsorship considerations should be discussed during the hiring process.
• Deadlines: Applicants are encouraged to submit materials promptly due to the mission-critical nature of the role.