Mechanical Engineer – Industrial HVAC & Environment Control - Kentucky

Job description

About Us

Contemporary Amperex Technology Kentucky LLC (CATK) is a U.S. subsidiary of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), a global leader in the research, development and manufacturing of advanced electric vehicle and energy storage batteries. CATK plays a pivotal role in advancing electric mobility, strengthening energy resilience, fostering innovation, and building strategic partnerships to support market development across the United States.

Our Vision To become a globally leading innovative technology corporation, contribute meaningfully to sustainable energy solutions, and provide a platform that supports both the professional and personal growth of our employees.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Mechanical Engineer with a strong background in industrial HVAC systems and environmental control. This onsite role will focus on the optimization, commissioning, and asset management of critical environmental control systems—specifically DHU (Desiccant Dehumidification Units), RAH (Recirculating Air Handlers), and AHU (Air Handling Units). The ideal candidate will ensure that our advanced manufacturing environments (Dry Rooms & Clean Rooms) achieve and maintain world-class stability, meeting strict process parameters (e.g., Ultra-low humidity RH up to 2%RH, precise temperature control, and high process capability Ppk > 1.67).

Key Responsibilities

System Ownership & Optimization: Serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for all dry room and clean room HVAC assets, including Desiccant Dehumidification Units (DHU), Recirculating Air Handlers (RAH), and Air Handling Units (AHU). Lead efforts to maximize system reliability and energy efficiency.

Engineering Analysis & Troubleshooting

Utilize engineering principles to diagnose and resolve complex stability issues related to airflow balancing, pressure cascading, humidity spikes, and thermal loads. Conduct Design of Experiments (DOE) and root cause analysis (RCA) to solve systemic environmental deviations.

Capacity & Performance Modeling

Perform thermodynamic and psychrometric calculations to evaluate cooling/heating loads, moisture removal capacity, and system redundancy against expanding production capacities.

Project Management & Commissioning

Oversee the technical execution of HVAC retrofits, capacity expansion, and system upgrades. Manage third-party contractors and vendors (e.g., Johnson Controls, Leadec) from engineering design review through final testing and balancing (TAB) and commissioning.

Data-Driven Quality Control

Collaborate with Quality and Process teams to monitor environment control performance indices ($C_{pk}$ / $P_{pk}$). Implement predictive maintenance strategies using automation data to prevent environmental drift.

Standard Operating Procedures

Establish and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), preventative maintenance (PM) checklists, and spare parts strategies for critical HVAC components (e.g., desiccant rotors, VOC abatement, steam/chilled water valves).

Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline from an accredited institution.

Experience

Minimum of 5 years of direct experience in industrial HVAC engineering, preferably within EV Battery Manufacturing (Lithium-ion), Semiconductors, Pharmaceuticals, or similar high-tech clean room/dry room environments.

Technical Expertise

* Deep understanding of industrial desiccant dehumidification technology and psychrometrics at low dew-point operations. Hands-on experience with large-scale AHU/RAH airflow configuration, variable frequency drives (VFDs), filtration systems (HEPA/ULPA), and PID loop tuning. Familiarity with industrial utility systems supporting HVAC (chilled water plants, steam boilers, compressed air).

Software & Tools

Proficiency with HVAC load calculation software, AutoCAD/Revit, and data analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, Excel) for analyzing system trends. Familiarity with BMS/SCADA systems .

Soft Skills

Exceptional cross-functional communication skills, with a proven ability to bridge technical discussions and drive alignment across diverse, global engineering and operations teams. Work Environment & Physical Requirements Regular, predictable on-site attendance is an essential function of this role. Ability to move throughout offices, manufacturing facilities, and construction areas, including walking, standing, bending, kneeling, and climbing stairs or ladders.

Ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 25–50 pounds, with occasional heavier lifting as required, with or without reasonable accommodation. Ability to work in varied environments, including offices, industrial, and construction settings. Willingness to travel to other job sites as business needs require. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position, in accordance with applicable law.

Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Paid time off and company holidays. Professional development and growth opportunities. Equal Employment Opportunity CATK is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Employment Disclaimer This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. CATK reserves the right to modify, revise, or add job responsibilities as business needs evolve. Employment with CATK is at-will, meaning either the employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.

Export Control & Data Security Compliance This position may involve access to sensitive systems or information subject to U.S. export control and data security regulations. Employment is contingent upon the employee’s ability to comply with applicable laws and company policies related to data protection and controlled information access.