Chilled Water Systems Leader — Campus Utilities

unc.edu; Chapel Hill (NC); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking a Chilled Water Systems Manager to lead the university's central chilled water production and distribution across campus.

This role drives long-range infrastructure planning, system reliability, and efficient operation for about 155 buildings with a staff of ~30, overseeing plants, pumps, towers, and control systems including PLC/SCADA/DCS, while coordinating with consultants and campus stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field.
• Five years of progressive engineering and supervisory experience.
• Experience managing complex utility, industrial, or infrastructure systems.
• Advanced utility and mechanical systems knowledge.
• Strong leadership, budgeting, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of regulatory and safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Direct system operations and maintenance.
• Oversee engineering, procurement, construction, and asset management.
• Maintain safe work practices and operational standards.
• Lead emergency response and recovery efforts.
• Lead and develop supervisors, engineers, operators, and technical staff.
• Oversee workforce planning, performance management, training, and employee development.
• Promote safety, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Provide strategic direction for operational excellence and system reliability.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Communication

Problem-solving

Regulatory knowledge

Safety standards

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field

Job description

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking a Chilled Water Systems Manager to lead the university's central chilled water production and distribution across campus.

This role drives long-range infrastructure planning, system reliability, and efficient operation for about 155 buildings with a staff of ~30, overseeing plants, pumps, towers, and control systems including PLC/SCADA/DCS, while coordinating with consultants and campus stakeholders.