Job Description

Piping Designer

Location: Birmingham, AL
Employment Type: Full-Time or Contract
Experience Level: 5 – 30+ years

Our client is a leading EPC (Engineering, Procurement & Construction) firm providing design/build services for complex industrial projects across North America. Their portfolio includes pulp & paper, power generation, manufacturing, and chemical process facilities, with project values ranging from $10 million to $200 million They combine engineering excellence with field-proven constructability to deliver projects safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

The Piping Designer is responsible for the layout, modeling, and design of process and utility piping systems for heavy industrial facilities. This position requires strong technical skills, a working knowledge of piping design codes, and the ability to coordinate effectively with multiple engineering disciplines and construction teams.

The ideal candidate will have a background in EPC or industrial plant design and be able to translate process requirements into accurate, constructible piping systems and deliverables.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and prepare 3D piping models, layouts, isometrics, and orthographic drawings for process and utility systems.
• Work from P&IDs, equipment general arrangements, and vendor drawings to create accurate piping designs.
• Ensure compliance with project specifications, codes, and standards (ASME B31.1, B31.3, etc.).
• Develop and maintain equipment layouts, piping plans, and support details in coordination with civil, structural, and mechanical disciplines.
• Participate in 3D model reviews, design checks, and constructability reviews with engineering and construction teams.
• Coordinate with process engineers to incorporate design changes and resolve interface issues.
• Generate material take-offs (MTOs), pipe stress input data, and support drawings as required.
• Review and reconcile vendor and supplier data with design documents for consistency.
• Provide field support during construction, including design clarifications and as-built updates.
• Promote a strong safety culture, incorporating safe design practices into all project work.

Qualifications

• Associate degree, technical diploma, or equivalent combination of education and experience in piping design or mechanical technology.
• 5–30+ years of experience in piping design for heavy industrial or EPC projects.
• Proficiency with 3D modeling and design software, such as:
• AutoCAD Plant 3D
• CADWorx
• SmartPlant 3D (SP3D)
• MicroStation or equivalent
• Familiarity with piping codes and standards (ASME, API, ANSI).
• Experience developing isometric drawings, MTOs, and equipment layout plans
• Strong understanding of industrial systems, including process piping, steam, condensate, cooling water, compressed air, and other plant utilities.
• Ability to interpret and coordinate vendor drawings, P&IDs, and mechanical design data
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration across disciplines and project teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in pulp & paper, power, chemical, or manufacturing facilities.
• Background in EPC design/build project environments
• Knowledge of laser scanning and point cloud integration
• Familiarity with BIM coordination tools (Navisworks, Smart Review, etc.).

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive compensation based on experience and role.
• Full-time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off.
• Contract opportunities available for experienced professionals seeking project-based flexibility.

Why Join

• Be part of a team delivering large-scale industrial projects that shape essential infrastructure.
• Work in an integrated EPC environment with exposure to engineering, procurement, and construction processes.
• Join a safety-focused, collaborative culture that values innovation, quality, and technical excellence.