Director, Energy & Engineering

The University of Akron; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Akron seeks a Facilities Manager to lead the HVAC department including Building Automation, Energy Center and HVAC distribution. The role ensures a clean, safe, and comfortable teaching environment for students and staff.

Responsibilities include supervising HVAC distribution, providing training, managing personnel hiring and discipline, and developing energy management strategies for campus systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum 3 years experience in lower/mid management in a large maintenance organization.
• Valid Ohio Drivers License.
• Experience in EPA refrigerant laws and regulations training/compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Superintendents of HVAC Distribution, Building Automation and the Energy Center.
• Develop and deliver training for supervision and trades; manage hiring, grievances and discipline.
• Develop operating and energy management strategies for campus buildings and systems.
• Commission new buildings for system defects and construction issues.
• Coordinate shops for major equipment and system repairs.
• Review plans and specs for Capital projects; develop specifications for material, installation and electrical.
• Review engineers' estimates to replace or install boilers, chillers, RTUs and A/C units; oversee contractors and contract compliance.

Skills

Team leadership

Training development

Hiring & HR

Energy management

Commissioning

Contract oversight

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Job Summary

Manage the HVAC department which includes Building Automation, Energy Center and HVAC Distribution. Provide a clean, safe and comfortable teaching/learning environment for students, faculty and staff.

Essential Functions

• 25% Manage Superintendents of HVAC Distribution, Building Automation and the Energy Center.
• 20% Develop and perform training for Supervision and skilled trades personnel to meet the changing needs of the department. Manage the hiring of personnel, grievances and disciplinary action. Develop and implement training and compliance of all EPA Refrigerant laws and regulations. Develop operating and energy management strategies for campus buildings and systems.
• 15% Commission new buildings for system/equipment defects, deficiencies and other problems related to construction.
• 15% Coordinate relevant shops for major equipment and system repairs.
• 15% Review plans and specs for Capital Planning projects. Develop projects, strategic planning, write and approve specs for material, installation and electrical.
• 10% Review mechanical engineers’ estimates to replace or install new boilers, chillers, RTU's and air conditioning units. Oversee contractors and ensure contract compliance.

Education

Requires a relevant Bachelor's Degree.

Licenses / Certifications / Requirements

Valid Ohio Drivers License

Experience

Requires a minimum of 3 years experience in lower/mid management position of a large maintenance organization.

Leadership

Management of the operation of a unit/major function with activities typically coordinated through administrative personnel above the level of first-line supervisors or through persons having mid-to-upper-level management or professional responsibility.

Physical Requirements

Light physical effort required involving stooping and bending; individual has limited discretion about walking, standing, etc.; occasionally lifting of lightweight objects (up to 25 lbs.).

Working Conditions

Routine discomforts from exposure to moderate levels of heat, cold, moisture/wetness, noise and air pollution. May involve routine/occasional exposure to light chemical substances or hazards (radiation, chemicals, diseases, heights and moving parts).

Compensation

Final salary compensation will be commensurate with the selected candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Application Deadline

Review of applications will begin on September 30, 2026.

FLSA Status (exempt/nonexempt)

United States of America (Exempt)

Background Check Statement

The University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees. The University endeavors to protect the health, welfare and safety of all students, employees and visitors on our campus. As such, all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials, and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search.

Non-Discrimination Statement

The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. View our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.

State of Residence Statement

It is the expectation of the University of Akron that all work performed as an employee of the University will be performed in Ohio.

The University of Akron empowers our people to flourish by delivering an applied and community-connected educational experience and cultivating research excellence. Leveraging our passion and expertise, we create innovative academic opportunities, support the well-being of our students and employees, and prioritize community embeddedness and engagement to impact lives through transformative experience. Through this focus, UA aspires to be the leader in community-focused higher education. The University of Akron is a lifelong learning partner, recognizing and valuing diverse learning experiences and combining traditional classroom experiences with innovative and robust approaches. As Zips, we prioritize the well-being of our students and employees, cultivate a culture and community where all can flourish, and act as responsible stewards of our resources and infrastructure by leveraging data to differentiate our processes and systems. We leverage our urban campus as a responsive and reliable partner to identify and meet the needs of the region. We intentionally contribute to economic and workforce development and civic life through research, innovation and engagement to provide community-embedded experiential learning opportunities that will enhance the UA experience for all students. We welcome candidates who are passionate about shaping and inspiring the next generation of thinkers, experts, artists and leaders. For more information about The University of Akron or the Akron community please visit our About UA page.

The University of Akron offers a competitive total compensation package comprised of a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits for eligible employees including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, and paid leave of absences including time off for illness, vacation, and maternity or paternity leave. In addition, eligible employees and their dependents are provided tuition remission. All staff and eligible non-bargaining unit faculty have the option to request a Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA). The University of Akron participates in state retirement systems and offers alternative retirement options with competitive employer contributions. Optional investment opportunities are available including deferred compensation programs (403(b) and 457(b)). Please visit our benefits home page for more information.