As the Chief Engineer, this position is responsible for all aspects of the Central Plant operations of Facilities Services, including budget, personnel, equipment replacement/renovation projects, utility production/distribution systems, maintenance, and operations. This position also provides support for construction/renovation and other operations of Facilities Services.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Directs the operation and maintenance of all university utility distribution systems, including electric power, chilled water, heating water, domestic water, sanitary sewage, stormwater, steam, and compressed air.

• Directs and supervises the personnel of the Central Plant. Includes hiring, ensuring required and appropriate training for staff, schedule management, employee relations, union relations, contract negotiations, work quality management, etc.

• Manages and directs the work of all contractors and vendors working for the Central Plant.

• Assists the Facilities Services project team in the design and management of construction/renovation projects.

• Implements and directs energy management programs (e.g. Xcel Energy commercial efficiency program, building temperature settings, Xcel energy rebate programs, etc.).

• Directs the operation of the building automation system.

• Directs the preventative maintenance program for the Central Plant and all university-wide mechanical and electrical equipment.

• Assists the Associate Vice President for Facilities Services with the preparation and management of the annual budget for Central Plant operations. Verifies utility bills and other department expenditures.

• Researches and keeps current with federal, state, and city laws, codes, and regulations to ensure the university is in compliance. (e.g. OSHA, EPA, air emissions, asbestos, fire safety, etc.)

• Establishes and maintains written contingency plans for furnishing utilities and/or protecting life and property during catastrophic failure.

• Is available to answer emergency calls 24/7.

• Serves as department liaison with electric, gas, and water utility companies.

• Oversees the energy conservation efforts of the university.

• Maintains relationships and communication with campus stakeholders in regard to the delivery of Central Plant services.

• Carries out other duties as directed.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND KEY COMPETENCIES

• Proven skills in developing, implementing, and managing Central Plant operations and programs.

• Knowledge and experience in applying current best practices in utilities and energy management.

• Demonstrated success and proficiency in the use of building/energy management systems and software.

• Possess strong analytical, problem identification, and resolution skills.

• Demonstrated ability to communicate verbally and in writing.

• Demonstrated ability to analyze situations and procedures and recognize any safety or health hazards that exist within them.

• Demonstrated success in building collaborative relationships.

• Ability to research and stay abreast of applicable regulations and codes.

MINIMUM EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent

• Post-high school education related to plant operations, mechanical/electrical systems, and/or energy management.

• 3-5 years experience in planning and directing of central plant operations

• 3-5 years experience in the direct supervision of central plant staff

PREFERRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university

• Training in the design and operation of digital controls, and building/energy management systems.

• Experience directing the central plant operations in a higher education setting.

• Demonstrated knowledge and skills of environmental/occupational health and safety regulations, practices, and procedures.

• Demonstrated knowledge and skills of a/c and refrigeration systems and equipment.

REQUIRED LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION/REGISTRATION

• Minnesota Chief B Boilers License

• Current MN driver’s license

• Successfully passed required criminal background check.