Miami University

Director of Energy Systems
Oxford, OH

---

Description

Miami University has retained Helbling, a ZRG company to conduct an executive search to secure a Director of Energy Systems.

For more details about this opportunity, please view the position profile by clicking on the cover image below.

Position:

The Director of Energy Systems leads, manages, plans, organizes, and administers the Utility Enterprise Auxiliary (UEA) operation, energy conservation, and commissioning efforts for a University campus consisting of approximately 180 buildings. The Director’s work consists of daily operation and maintenance of a central steam production plant, two regional chilled water production plants, geothermal operations, high voltage electric systems and production, and associated distribution systems; utility commodity purchases, sales, and billing; prioritization of energy conservation projects in a manner that results in the greatest efficiency and effectiveness. The position also oversees and coordinates work of outside contractors. The Director will perform other duties as assigned.

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Leadership-Management-Relationship with Superiors – provides direction, focus, guidance, support, prioritization, and oversight for managerial and supervisory staff; develops and implements programs, policies, processes, and procedures that result in high levels of organizational performance and effectiveness; keep superior informed; be responsive to directives from superiors; support the unit, departmental, and institutional goals;
• Daily Operations – responsible for overall administration, supervision, and reliable operation of all utility production plants within the UEA; establishes safety as top priority; ensures the University’s mission critical needs are met through best operating practices and good decisions; develops and implements key performance indicators monitoring efforts to achieve set goals for safety, productivity, quality, and cost;
• Energy Optimization – responsible for establishing energy optimization strategies within central and regional production plants, distribution systems, and the respective impact within individual buildings. Establishes relationships with University department heads to develop comprehensive energy reduction initiatives through various business units;
• Miami 2040 Climate Action Plan – support and champion and provide stewardship for the Miami 2040 Climate Action Plan, submitted in May of 2024; 
• Continuous Improvement – promotes continuous improvement through lean programming; expects a high level of participation throughout all employees in the Utility Enterprise Auxiliary (UEA) in lean initiatives; expects UEA employees to develop and submit continuous improvement ideas on a regular basis; establishes a culture seeking improved service levels with the same or fewer resources;
• Technical Support and Guidance – provides supervisors and managers with technical support and guidance relative to various mechanical and electrical distribution systems, building systems, and equipment;
• Budget Management – prepares and manages operating and capital improvement budgets; ensures funds are spent in accordance with state law and University policy;
• Contractor Oversight – oversees contract administration and hiring of outside contractors;
• Long-Range Planning – leads effort establishing the most effective, efficient, and sustainable plan for providing utilities to campus; provides system and equipment condition assessments and long-range planning for capital project needs, including determination of priority; provides oversight of capital renewal planning;
• Quality Control – develops and implements programs, policies and work practices that ensures high degree of quality in work performed by staff and contractors;
• Customer Satisfaction – develops and implements programs, policies and work practices that result in a high degree of customer satisfaction; develops and measures customer satisfaction;
• Record Keeping Function – Develops policies and work practices that result in accurate and timely tracking of work requests, PM efforts, labor and material costs; develops/prepares periodic reports detailing performance of the business unit;
• Personnel Function – provides for professional development of employees; enforces work rules; holds subordinates accountable for effectiveness and efficiency; screens job applicants; makes hiring recommendations; participates in administration of discipline;
• Implement Technology – responsible for the application of technology to the operation, such as computerized maintenance-management systems and/or electronic work order systems and building automation system.

About Miami University:

Miami University, established in 1809, is a public institution located in Oxford, Ohio. It is recognized nationally for its commitment to undergraduate teaching and offers a wide range of academic programs across disciplines, including education, business, health sciences, engineering, and the liberal arts. The University serves approximately 19,000 students and provides both undergraduate and graduate-level education.

The University campus is known for its cohesive architecture and accessible layout. Miami emphasizes a student-centered approach to learning, with relatively small class sizes and a strong focus on teaching quality. Faculty and staff are supported by a collaborative environment that values academic excellence, service, and professional development.

As a major presence in the Oxford area, Miami University plays a significant role in the local community. University resources, events, and facilities often extend beyond the campus to benefit residents as well. Employment at the University or in the surrounding area provides opportunities to engage with a diverse and active academic environment, while also contributing to a broader mission of education and community service.

Campus Sustainability Initiatives:

Miami University has garnered national recognition for its innovative and comprehensive approach to campus sustainability, particularly through its extensive geothermal energy systems and commitment to reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions.

• Transitioning from Steam to Geothermal and Electrification
• Remarkable Reductions in Energy Use and Emissions
• Integrating Renewable Energy Sources
• Commitment to Carbon Neutrality by 2040

Requirements

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field plus a minimum of 5 years full-time experience in utility plant engineering preferred; or related associate’s degree plus a minimum of 8 years full-time experience in utility plant management; or a minimum of 10 years full-time verifiable experience in utility plant management and energy conservation. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Specific Knowledge – working knowledge of industrial utility systems and production, air-conditioning, heating, ventilation, commercial refrigeration, plumbing, water treatment, computerized temperature control systems, chillers, boilers, energy management, fan systems, and pumping systems;
• Knowledge of Maintenance Function – thorough knowledge of methods associated with maintenance, repair, and operation of all utility and distribution systems noted above; thorough knowledge of safety regulations and safe work practices;
• Technical Understanding – ability to read, interpret, and understand drawings, specifications, sequences of operation, control drawings, and other technical data;
• Attention to Detail – ability to maintain detailed and complete records of maintenance and repair activities;
• Communication Skills – ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, to a wide range of persons;
• Customer Service Skills – thorough understanding of modern customer service theories, practices, and methods;
• Managerial Complexity – must be able to successfully handle multiple tasks at once, and be able to determine appropriate priorities; must be able to make independent interpretations and make appropriate decisions that are in the best interest of the organization and that are consistent with the objectives of upper-management;
• Computer Skills – must be proficient in the use of business application software, to include word processor, spreadsheet, and database programs; must be experienced in the use of a computerized maintenance-management software program.

University Statement of Non-Discrimination: 

Miami University does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, military status, national origin (ancestry), pregnancy, race, religion, sex/gender, status as a parent or foster parent, sexual orientation or protected veteran status in its educational programs or activities, which includes employment.

Miami University requires all University employees who become aware of alleged discrimination or harassment to report it in order to promote a university environment free from discrimination and harassment and to promote equal employment opportunity. Miami University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on the aforementioned Protected Classes in accordance with the applicable laws, executive orders, and University policies.

Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Statement / Clery Act:

Miami University, an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, encourages applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Miami University prohibits harassment, discrimination and retaliation on the basis of age (40 years or older), color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, military status, national origin (ancestry), pregnancy, race, religion, sex/gender, status as a parent or foster parent, sexual orientation, or protected veteran status in its application and admission processes, educational programs and activities, facilities, programs or employment practices. Requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities related to employment should be directed to ADAFacultyStaff@MiamiOH.edu or 513-529-3560.

As part of the University’s commitment to maintaining a healthy and safe living, learning, and working environment, we encourage you to read Miami University’s Annual Security & Fire Safety Report at: http://www.MiamiOH.edu/campus-safety/annual-report/index.html, which contains information about campus safety, crime statistics, and our drug and alcohol abuse and prevention program designed to prevent the unlawful possession, use, and distribution of drugs and alcohol on campus and at University events and activities. This report also contains information on programs and policies designed to prevent and address sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. Each year, email notification of this website is made to all faculty, staff, and enrolled students. Written notification is also provided to prospective students and employees. Hard copies of the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report may be obtained from the Miami University Police Department at (513) 529-2223.

 
All applicants will be required to apply through Miami University's website.