Baltimore, MD-based St. John Properties, Inc., has hired Mark Mercer as sustainability engineer. He previously worked as a project engineer with Smith Mechanical.

Mercer will support the company’s sustainability team to devise, implement and evaluate innovative sustainable business initiatives that positively impact the company’s portfolio and clients. His responsibilities include ensuring all newly constructed buildings satisfy the US Green Building Council’s thresholds of sustainability and earn LEED certification.

Mercer will also analyze and evaluate existing mechanical systems to achieve optimum energy efficiency and track emerging legislation that impacts the commercial real estate industry as it relates to building sustainability standards.

“This strategic hire brings depth to our sustainability team and adds a professional with highly-refined technical and mechanical skills,” explained Jeff Gish, EVP of construction for St. John Properties. “Mark’s familiarity with HVAC systems adds a new level of expertise and we intend to leverage his knowledge to further improve energy efficiency across our portfolio.”