System Energy Engineer

This position provides engineering guidance and support for campus engineering projects and energy efficiency initiatives to meet UMN’s commitment to carbon neutrality and implementation of Climate Action Plans. Provides technical expertise and engineering oversight to establish maintenance and operational requirements for equipment and facilities. Develops engineering solutions to address identified issues and to reduce building energy usage and carbon footprint. Responsible for providing consulting and project leadership services in energy efficiency, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems. The position will develop and document control strategies for optimizing mechanical systems performance, prepare specifications, manage projects, and conduct building recommissioning. Recommend changes in control and maintenance strategies, operating procedures and equipment schedules based upon on-site investigations. The position will coordinate with local utilities to maximize utility rebates.

Responsibilities

Identify energy conservation opportunities in University buildings on Duluth, Morris, and Crookston campuses. Analyze the viability of the project from both operational and financial perspectives. Design and implement energy conservation projects to optimize electrical and/or mechanical system performance, maintain building comfort levels, and utilize energy as efficiently as possible.

Develops engineering solutions and reviews designs and documentation prepared by outside consultants to ensure conformity with University standards in the engineering field of practice and the impact of new designs on existing systems. Reviews on-going and completed projects to ensure adherence to University construction standards and procedures and design principles. Develops procedures to ensure conformity with MN state building codes. Directs project design concerns to University Project Managers and/or corresponds directly with consultants.

Provides support to facility management work teams responsible for maintenance and operation of building, facilities, and physical infrastructure. Investigates building, facility, and physical infrastructure problems or coordinates the review by outside resources. Make recommendations and implement changes to building mechanical systems for efficient operation of facilities. Work with customers and end users to assist them in the development of technical solutions for their business needs.

Responsible for writing engineering studies and/or project proposals. Responsible for all phases of projects from schematic design through detailed design, procurement, construction management, commissioning and closeout. Coordinates among sustainability departments and other various internal partners and external service providers. Participate in University Energy Management standards discussions and updates.

Work Environment

Work is performed in an office setting as well as in the field. This position will be exposed to hazardous conditions where hearing and visual protection may be required. Must be able to walk, climb and crawl in various weather conditions to physically access and view work sites, including mechanical/electrical equipment rooms, deep tunnels, and rooftops. Work is performed across a hybrid setting (online and in-person). Position requires regular travel to University of Minnesota Crookston, Morris, and Duluth campuses with a primary office setting in one of these locations. Ability to work out of system campuses.

Salary Range; $100.000-$125,000

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from an accredited college or university, and a minimum of six years of related experience in HVAC, Energy Management, or Facilities Operations to include design, technical evaluation, and project reviews of building systems. Registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the State of Minnesota is strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Ability to identify and analyze energy conservation opportunities.
• Proficient skill in preparing sketches and drawings with the use of AutoCAD.
• Demonstrated ability to lead change and to gain support and commitment from others.
• Awareness of construction standards and building code requirements.
• Ability to work collaboratively with others to address and resolve problems.
• Knowledge and ability to apply new technologies in HVAC&R and DDC.
• Highly developed written (including technical writing), verbal, interpersonal and persuasion skills with both internal and external parties.
• Strong organization, leadership, training, and human relations skills.
• Excellent analytical, communication, problem solving, and technical skills.
• Proven skill in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to think independently and work with minimal supervision through self-motivation.
• Commitment to sustainability and decarbonization efforts

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your “My Job Applications” page and uploading documents in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail [email protected] or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About The U Of M

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges” issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD’s many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).