Posting Details
South Dakota State University is seeking an exceptional individual to join our team as the Director of Energy Systems. This pivotal position involves driving strategic initiatives overseeing energy infrastructure and spearheading programs that align with the universitys commitment to sustainability and innovation. This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota. Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Serve as a strategic partner in advancing the mission of the Facilities & Services Department. • Lead and develop an internal team focused on Energy Systems management and innovation. • Oversee campus resources to ensure the reliable and efficient delivery of heating and cooling services. • Coordinate activities with other divisions, departments, and external agencies to achieve shared goals. • Provide critical support to the Associate Vice President (AVP) of Facilities and Services. • Collaborate with the Facilities & Services leadership team to establish objectives, policies, and procedures that align with the vision of South Dakota State University (SDSU). • Ensure the quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliability of services related to the generation and distribution of central steam and chilled water utilities. • Manage the design and implementation of improvements to heating, ventilation, air-conditioning (HVAC) and building automation systems, ensuring compliance with established standards. • Maintain ongoing operations and oversee the maintenance of these systems to ensure long-term efficiency and performance.
BENEFITS
SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits, including:
• Medical, dental, and flexible benefits • Retirement plans • Compensation packages • Paid holidays and vacation leave • Generous retirement plan that includes 6 matching hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays • Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions • Relocation benefits are available per universitys guidelines
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelors degree in Engineering or related field completed by start date • At least five years of related experience in mechanical engineering, HVAC, energy systems, project management, commissioning, or related field • Computer experience including Autodesk, Microsoft, E-mail, Word, and Excel • Demonstrated effective customer service skills • Organized, detailed, and results-oriented • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to exercise sound judgment and make good decisions based on the best interests of stakeholders • Effective written communication skills • Effective verbal communication and interpersonal skills • Valid drivers license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelors degree in mechanical engineering by start date • Supervisory or leadership experience • Licensed professional engineer • Experience working with university facilities or in facilities management • Experience in managing or operating central utility generation • Experience with HVAC design, operation, and maintenance • Experience with building automated controls • Knowledge of or experience with energy conservation practices • Knowledge of or experience with sustainability • Masters degree in architecture, engineering, or related field
APPLICATION PROCESS
SDState accepts applications through an online employment site. To apply, visit https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu and search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on "Apply for this job." This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, resume, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDState Human Resources at 605-688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.
Any offer of employment is contingent on the universitys verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to successful completion of a criminal background check. SDState is a tobacco-free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State Universitys Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 414.
Posting Date: 03022026 Closing Date: Open Until Filled First Consideration Date: 03162026 Advertised Salary: $95,000 - $115,000 Duration of the Term: 12 months Appointment Percent: 100 Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 8a-5p, normally but will involve weekends and holidays Typical Hours Worked Per Week: Appointment Type: Regular Faculty Status: No Scope of Search: External includes Internal If internal, define scope of search
DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION AND CULTURAL EXPECTATIONS
SDState is the states largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs, and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. The Energy Systems Division of Facilities and Services manages the production and distribution of the heating and cooling for campus. Our staff of engineers and technicians continually assess new technologies and energy options to assure SDSU utilizes the most efficient and reliable systems both environmentally and fiscally.
EQUITY AND DIVERSITY
South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service, and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant access mission. SDSU is an affirmative action equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to and SDSU prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veterans status, or any other status that may become protected in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact Equal Opportunity Officer, Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007, Phone 605-688-4128.
CONTACT INFORMATION
For questions on the position, contact Associate Vice President Barry Mielke at 605-688-4136 or Barry.Mielkes@sdstate.edu.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Cognitive Requirements:
• Analyzing • Comprehend • Frequent Change • Logic • Memory • Multiple Priorities • Multiple Stimuli • Perform calculations • Reading • Reasoning • Verbal Communication • Written Communication
Protective Clothing/Equipment:
• Ear Protection, including earplugs • Eye Protection • Latex Gloves • Other Protective Clothing (if other protection is used, please identify)
Physical Requirements:
• Balancing • Bending • Stooping • Twisting • Carrying • Climbing Ladders • Climbing Stairs • Crawling • Crouching • Driving • Kneeling • Lifting Above Waist • Lifting Below Waist • Lifting Light • Lifting Moderate • Pushing/Pulling • Reaching • Sitting for sustained periods of time • Squatting • Standing for sustained periods of time • Stretching • Use Both Hands • Use of Either Hand Independently • Walking
Sensory Requirements:
• Color Vision • Depth Perception • Distant Vision • Hearing • Near Vision • Peripheral Vision
Working Conditions/Exposures:
• Atmospheric Contaminants, including odors & fumes • Changes of Temperature • Chemical Hazards • Electrical Current • Exposure or Potential Exposure to Blood/Body Fluids • Exposure to Dust • Exposure to Noise • Extreme Cold • Extreme Heat (>100F) • Extreme Weather Conditions (wind, rain, snow, humidity, vibrations) • Walking/Standing on rough or uneven surfaces (gravel, rocks, etc.) • Walking/Standing on wood, metal, or concrete • Work in confined/congested spaces, tunnels • Work in narrow aisles/passageways • Working Around Machinery • Working from scaffolding and high places
Working Environment:
• Animal Facility • Animal Research Farm • Athletic/Wellness Facilities • Classroom Environment • Clinical Environment • Greenhouse Environment • Lab Environment • Mechanical Facility • Office Environment • Outdoors Environment • If you have indicated Other Environment, if work tasks involve one or more of the above, or if further explanation is necessary, please use the space provided.
SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONS
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk.