Construction Document Examiner (Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing)

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!

We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.

Job Description

The MEP Reviewer evaluates construction drawings and specifications for new construction and preservation of existing multifamily affordable housing. You’ll assess mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and related site/civil elements for compliance with Agency requirements, energy efficiency standards, and best-practice design—ensuring systems are safe, functional, durable, and cost‑effective.

What you’ll do

• Review MEP, fire protection, and related civil/site plans/specs for compliance with Agency design and energy standards; provide clear written comments to architects, developers, and internal stakeholders.
• Verify mechanical/electrical Threshold and Selection Criteria certified in loan applications are reflected in Contract Documents.
• Coordinate thermal envelope and insulation details with Architecture + Engineering staff to ensure energy efficiency and cost-effective design; align MEP with architectural review.
• Complete comprehensive reviews of assigned loan applications and provide recommendations to the Development Division and other Agency Multifamily staff.
• Assess construction costs and professional fees for reasonableness; flag discrepancies and offer value‑engineering opportunities.
• Review Project Capital Needs Assessments (PCNAs) and Energy Audits submitted with preservation applications; confirm scope aligns with identified needs and energy findings.
• Conduct site visits as requested to validate existing conditions and installation quality.
• Document findings, track resolutions, and support project teams through closing and pre‑construction phases.

What you bring

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, engineering sciences, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Strong knowledge of construction documents, MEP coordination, building envelope interfaces, and cost/constructability considerations.
• Clear, concise technical writing; ability to translate code/standard requirements into actionable review comments.
• Collaborative mindset with architects, engineers, owners/developers, and internal partners; strong time management and attention to detail.

Prefer

• 2+ years of practical design experience in HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems for multifamily or similar building types; affordable housing experience a plus.
• Multifamily Energy Rater experience, certification, or accreditation (e.g., HERS/RESNET, BPI, ENERGY STAR MFNC).
• Familiarity with energy codes/standards (e.g., IECC, ASHRAE 90.1, Green Building Programs, Efficient New Homes Program, etc.), electrical and life-safety codes (e.g., NEC, NFPA), and commissioning fundamentals.
• Experience reviewing PCNAs, Energy Audits, and rehab/preservation scopes for existing multifamily buildings.

Why PHFA

• Mission-driven work advancing safe, efficient, and affordable housing statewide.
• Collaboration with experienced A/E teams and developers across new construction and preservation projects.
• Supportive, inclusive culture with opportunities to grow skills in multifamily design, energy performance, and codes.

Job location: Harrisburg, PA - Hybrid Schedule

Compensation and benefits

PHFA invests in employees’ physical health and financial well‑being and provides resources for success at work and at home. A comprehensive benefits package and supportive programs are available for eligible employees. Specifics will be discussed during the hiring process.

Equal opportunity

PHFA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, disability, family status, gender, national origin, political affiliation, race, or religion. We value a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and are committed to equitable treatment and the elimination of discrimination in all forms.

Qualifications

Experience

EEO Statement

As an employer, PHFA is committed to having a workforce that is diverse and reflects the residents that it serves. We strive to maintain a workplace where all employees and applicants for employment receive equal opportunities in all aspects of employment. There are numerous policies in place at PHFA to help us honor this commitment.

The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, disability, family status, gender, national origin, political affiliation, race or religion.

Diversity Statement

PHFA values, honors and commits to the equitable treatment and elimination of discrimination in all forms. We are committed to the diversity of all staff, and in all programs and services offered.