Energy Engineer

The University of Minnesota is seeking an Energy Engineer to join a dedicated, in-house team working to achieve the next stage of the University's Climate Action Plan. Under the guidance of a Principal Engineer, this position will provide critical engineering support for campus construction projects, physical plant operations, and energy efficiency initiatives. The majority of engineering work will focus on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and identify energy waste, optimize building automation systems (BAS), and engineer mechanical solutions that reduce the carbon footprint of the university.

Position Responsibilities

Energy Efficiency & System Optimization (40%)

• Identify energy efficiency opportunities in buildings and analyze the viability of the project from both operational and financial perspectives.
• Develop, document, and implement control strategies for building automation systems to optimize performance.
• Design and implement energy conservation projects to optimize mechanical system performance through recommissioning efforts, utilizing energy as efficiently as possible, while maintaining building comfort levels and meeting research requirements.
• Make recommendations and implement changes to building mechanical systems for efficient operation of facilities.

Project Management & Coordination (30%)

• Manage projects by scheduling work, ordering equipment, and providing advice and instruction to University trades and external vendors.
• Work with customers and end users to assist them in the development of technical solutions for their business needs.

Technical Support & Problem Analysis (20%)

• Gather and analyze data to troubleshoot physical infrastructure problems.
• Provide technical support to work teams responsible for repair, maintenance, and operations of buildings.

Design Review & Standards Compliance (10%)

• Under direct supervision of a Principal Engineer, reviews designs and documentation prepared by outside consultants to ensure conformity with the University standards and the impact of new designs on existing systems.
• Inspect construction in progress for compliance with the University construction standards and specifications.

Required (Minimum) Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field and 2 years of experience.
  • The two years of experience can include: two years of student internship; two calendar years working in a science or engineering field (not specifically 4160 hours); or, two calendar years working at a hands-on job that requires a technical understanding of applicable engineering discipline.
• Ability to work collaboratively with others to address and resolve problems.
• Strong organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with building mechanical systems, HVAC, energy management, facilities operations, or building automation systems.
• Successful completion of fundamentals of engineering (engineer in training) exam and/or certification as an energy manager.
• Ability to identify and analyze energy efficiency opportunities.
• Familiarity with modern data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., PowerBI, Python, or Monitoring-Based Commissioning software).
• Proficient 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.
• Highly developed technical writing, verbal, and interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to lead change and gain buy-in from stakeholders.
• Proven analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability and desire to work independently with minimal supervision.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

• Work is performed in an office setting as well as in the field where exposure to hazards requiring hearing and visual protection will be required (mechanical rooms).
• Must be able to walk, climb and crawl in various weather conditions to physically access and view work sites, including mechanical/electrical equipment rooms, utility tunnels and rooftops.

Energy Management oversees the reliable, safe and efficient operation of mechanical, electrical, and civil utilities systems in approximately 250 buildings on the Twin Cities campus. Home to the University's technical and professional engineering staff, as well as a select group of skilled tradespeople, the group maintains the campus utility infrastructure and provides technical and engineering expertise to the U's Capital Planning, Facilities
Management building operations, and other facilities-related units across the U of M system.

The Twin Cities campus has a total electric utility budget of approximately $51M per year. The system includes more than twelve miles of underground steam tunnels and four high voltage (13,800 Volt) switch stations. The Utility Operations group manages and maintains this complex infrastructure, as well as overseeing storm water management, sanitary sewer systems, municipal water distribution, chilled water distribution, steam and condensate, and compressed air systems.

Pay Range: $65,000 - $80,000 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment, 12 month

Position Type: P&A Staff

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

The University 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
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

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

Please include a resume and cover letter for a complete application.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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

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.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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).