Energy Engineer

About the Job

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.

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

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.

Qualifications

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.