Director, Energy & Engineering

APPA - Leadership in Educational Facilities; Akron, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Akron is seeking an experienced leader to manage the HVAC department, including Building Automation, Energy Center and HVAC Distribution. The role ensures a safe, comfortable teaching environment for students and staff and oversees capital projects and contractor activities.

Responsibilities include supervising HVAC operations, coordinating training, and ensuring compliance with EPA refrigerant regulations; final salary will reflect qualifications and experience.

Qualifications

• Requires a relevant Bachelor's Degree.
• Minimum of 3 years experience in lower/mid management in a large maintenance organization.
• Valid Ohio Driver's License.

Responsibilities

• 25% Manage Superintendents of HVAC Distribution, Building Automation and the Energy Center.
• 20% Develop and perform training for supervision and skilled trades personnel; hire, address grievances and ensure EPA refrigerant compliance.
• 15% Commission new buildings for system/equipment defects and construction-related issues.
• 15% Coordinate relevant shops for major equipment and system repairs.
• 15% Review Capital Planning project plans and specs; develop and approve material, installation, and electrical specs.
• 10% Review mechanical engineers' estimates for boilers, chillers, RTUs and A/C units; oversee contractors and ensure contract compliance.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Facilities operations

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.

Additional Position Information:

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)

Union Affiliation (if applicable):

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.