Careers at Virginia Tech

Reporting to the Associate Director for Energy Management (ADEM), the Lead Energy Engineer (LEE) will use their exceptional understanding of building HVAC and mechanical systems, building automation systems (BAS), compressed air systems, refrigeration, lighting systems, building envelope and electrical systems to identify, design, develop and implement energy efficiency measures (EEM) for campus buildings to reduce energy use & costs and support University sustainability and resource conservation objectives. The LEE will manage and develop the energy engineer and student technical energy analyst, leveraging the engineering team’s capabilities and capacities to meet overall goals and responsibilities listed herein. The LEE will focus on EEM both small and large for a wide spectrum of buildings on campus including but not limited to research laboratories, academic buildings, and athletic facilities. The LEE will use measurement and verification (M&V) best practices to assure EEM generates the projected energy savings.

The LEE will leverage their substantial experience in the field of energy efficiency & systems optimization to ensure buildings are working at or towards high performance levels. Utilizing the BAS, the LEE will lead the HVAC retro commissioning program utilizing designated internal and external resources.

The LEE provides energy efficiency oversight and support to the campus facilities systems operations teams ensuring systems are operating and functioning in accordance with applicable energy codes and standards.

The LEE provides chilled water system energy efficiency oversight to the Chilled Water Plant Supervisor, Chilled Water System Technician and contracted services. The LEE also supports mechanical engineering of chilled water system design issues.

The LEE shall assist in design review and commissioning with engineering and construction teams for new and retrofit building projects.

The LEE completes all routine work assignments and performs all additional duties as assigned. Maintains a safe and clean working environment. Consistently meets university needs in a timely and professional manner with increasingly improved skill. Follows-up on every project or task to ensure that all items are completed to the satisfaction of the supervisor. Maintains a responsible attendance record, punctuality and consistent meeting of deadlines. Builds and maintains internal and external customer satisfaction with the products and services offered by the organization. Seeks feedback, is responsive to stakeholders and takes appropriate action for the situation.

Performs work in a manner that supports and facilitates the work of others in Facilities Services and the university community. Maintains a positive and cooperative working relationship with members of the facilities department and campus community by practicing individual dignity, using tact and diplomacy, and always being respectful and civil. Utilizes respectful communication when dealing with people in all situations, demonstrating restraint, fairness and firmness. Works effectively to understand by carefully listening and working to be understood. Demonstrates restraint, fairness and firmness with all people in all situations.

Must be able to effectively communicate and successfully interact with a variety of individuals in a diverse environment at all levels of the organization. Ability to maintain confidentiality and work appropriately within the department hierarchy. Communicates effectively to resolve problems and proactively resolve conflicts or disagreements in the workplace, makes suggestions and ask pertinent questions to facilitate effective communication.

• Advanced degree in mechanical, industrial or energy engineering or bachelor's degree in mechanical or industrial engineering and related professional experience equivalent to an advanced degree.
• Significant years or related experience in designing and/or operating commercial HVAC systems, energy systems, or in the field of energy engineering or energy management.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license and/or ability to receive VA PE license within one year of employment.
• Excellent knowledge and experience with BAS systems optimization and HVAC system commissioning
• Expert knowledge of chilled water system design, operation and optimization
• Certified Energy Manager (CEM) by the Association of Energy Engineers.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC theory and applications for commercial buildings.
• Experience conducting field measurements and data logging on HVAC systems.
• Experience developing EEM.
• Experience performing energy saving analysis using ASHRAE simplified bin methods and spreadsheets.
• Experience using building energy simulation tools such as eQuest, DOE2, etc.
• Experience working with external contractors for project pricing.
• Familiarity with International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP) guidelines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to work independently.

• Master's degree in mechanical, industrial or energy engineering.
• Considerable experience in Energy Performance Contracting for commercial buildings.
• TAB/Commissioning experience and/or certifications.
• Experience conducting ASRAE Level I/II energy audits for commercial buildings.
• Experience supporting the implementation of EEM during construction phase.
• Experience verifying energy savings using regression analysis or calibrated simulation.
• High level of proficiency using Microsoft Excel.
• Strong knowledge and experience with LEED BD+C certification
• Prior supervisory experience

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Regular

112,000 - 115,000; commensurate with experience

March 4, 2025; applications accepted until filled

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.