Drydocks World - Dubai - HVAC Specialist

Roles and responsibilities

An HVAC Designer is a professional responsible for designing and planning heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for buildings and facilities. Their role involves ensuring the HVAC systems are efficient, comfortable, energy-efficient, and meet safety and regulatory standards. HVAC Designers typically work on projects such as commercial buildings, industrial facilities, residential complexes, and specialized environments like hospitals or laboratories.

Below are the key skills and responsibilities associated with the HVAC Designer role:

Key Responsibilities

• HVAC System Design :

  • Design heating, cooling, ventilation, and air conditioning systems based on building layouts, client requirements, and industry standards.
  • Develop HVAC system layouts, ductwork designs, piping systems, and equipment selection, ensuring optimal performance and energy efficiency.
  • Create designs that ensure the HVAC system meets the needs of the space while maintaining comfort and air quality.

• Load Calculation and Sizing :

  • Perform calculations to determine the required heating and cooling loads for a given space, based on factors like building materials, climate, and occupancy.
  • Size HVAC equipment such as boilers, chillers, air handling units, ducts, and diffusers based on load requirements and system performance goals.
  • Use software tools like Manual J, Manual D, or HVAC load calculation software to ensure proper sizing.

• Energy Efficiency and Sustainability :

  • Design energy-efficient HVAC systems that minimize energy consumption while maintaining comfort and meeting performance criteria.
  • Integrate sustainable and environmentally-friendly solutions, such as heat recovery systems, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), and renewable energy sources (solar, geothermal).
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends, including energy-efficient systems, and help clients achieve green building certifications such as LEED.

• Compliance with Codes and Standards :

  • Ensure all designs comply with local, state, and national building codes, safety regulations, and HVAC industry standards.
  • Apply knowledge of standards from organizations such as ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers), SMACNA (Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association), and ANSI (American National Standards Institute).
  • Review and interpret building codes related to HVAC system installation, including fire safety codes and ventilation standards.

• Collaboration with Other Teams :

  • Work closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients to ensure HVAC designs align with other systems, including plumbing, electrical, and structural systems.
  • Coordinate with other disciplines to ensure the HVAC system integrates smoothly with the building's overall design and infrastructure.
  • Participate in project meetings, providing technical expertise on HVAC system design and performance.

• System Modeling and Simulation :

  • Use building information modeling (BIM) software such as Revit or AutoCAD MEP to create 3D models of HVAC systems and visualize their integration into the building structure.
  • Perform system simulations to analyze airflow, temperature distribution, and system performance under different scenarios.
  • Troubleshoot design issues through simulations and make necessary adjustments to improve system efficiency.

Technical Competencies

Knowledge in Drafting software's mainly Auto CAD, PDMS, CADMATIC, Navisworks etc.

Knowledge in MS Office such as Word and Excel.

Knowledge in ERP software preferred.

Knowledge and experience in HVAC & Piping 3D Modelling.

Ability to read, interpret and follow method statements and procedures, specifications, drawings, and other discipline related project and engineering documentation.

• HVAC System Design Knowledge :

  • Deep understanding of HVAC systems, including heating, cooling, ventilation, and air conditioning.
  • Familiarity with various types of HVAC systems, such as split systems, packaged units, VRF/VRV systems, and hydronic heating systems.
  • Knowledge of air distribution systems (ductwork, grilles, diffusers) and how to design them for optimal airflow and energy efficiency.

• Load Calculations and Sizing :

  • Proficiency in performing load calculations for heating and cooling needs based on the size and use of the building or space.
  • Ability to size HVAC components like chillers, boilers, air handling units, ductwork, and diffusers accurately.

• Energy Efficiency and Sustainability :

  • Understanding of energy-efficient HVAC solutions, including variable refrigerant flow (VRF), geothermal heating, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), and renewable energy integration.
  • Experience in energy audits and sustainability assessments to design systems that minimize environmental impact and meet energy standards.

• Building Information Modeling (BIM) and CAD :

  • Proficiency in AutoCAD MEP, Revit, or other BIM software for drafting and designing HVAC systems.
  • Ability to generate 2D and 3D drawings and schematics for HVAC systems and integrate these into the building design.

• Regulatory Knowledge :

  • In-depth understanding of building codes, safety standards, and regulations related to HVAC systems, including ASHRAE standards, local building codes, and environmental regulations.
  • Knowledge of compliance with international standards and certifications for energy efficiency and sustainability.

• Communication and Collaboration :

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills to explain complex HVAC design concepts to clients, contractors, and project stakeholders.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with other professionals, such as architects, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and construction teams.

• Problem-Solving and Analytical Thinking :

  • Excellent troubleshooting skills to identify design issues and develop solutions for optimal system performance.
  • Ability to think critically and adjust designs to meet unique project requirements, environmental constraints, or budget limitations.

• Project Management and Time Management :

  • Ability to manage multiple HVAC design projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
  • Experience in preparing project schedules, tracking progress, and ensuring that design work stays on track.

Desirable Skills

• Advanced HVAC Design Software :

  • Familiarity with advanced HVAC software tools such as Trane Trace, Carrier HAP, or EnergyPlus for modeling and performance analysis.
  • Experience with Computational Fluid Dyna.