Mechanical Engineer - Steam and Chilled Water

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 81,312 - 154,452; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

Robust retirement plans

75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join the Utility Services team. This role focuses on providing operational support for steam and chilled water utility systems within a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will develop and implement preventative maintenance programs and collaborate with various teams to optimize system performance.

Responsibilities include conducting field verifications, supervising staff, and ensuring the long-term efficiency of campus utilities. Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of hands-on experience with large-scale steam or chilled water systems.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical issues.
• Experience in a campus or industrial utility environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide operational expertise for steam and chilled water utilities.
• Develop preventative maintenance programs for utility assets.
• Collaborate with teams to design and operate efficient systems.

Skills

Troubleshooting mechanical systems

Operational technical expertise

Preventative maintenance programs

Data analysis for failure analysis

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ASME piping code

ASHRAE standards

Job description

Position Overview

Penn State is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join the Utility Services team at University Park in a role responsible for technical and operational support for steam and chilled water utility systems.

This position requires hands‑on engineering in a fast‑paced, 24/7 operations environment and offers the opportunity to influence the long‑range strategic direction of campus utilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide operational technical expertise for steam and chilled water utilities.
• Work closely with supervisors and technicians to optimize control system performance; review maintenance plans and support corrective repairs.
• Evaluate data in support of root cause failure analysis and strong preventative maintenance programs.
• Develop, implement, and maintain preventative maintenance programs for steam and chilled water assets (boilers, economizers, deaerators, motors, pumps, valves, strainers, piping, plate‑and‑frame heat exchangers, and coils).
• Conduct field verifications, collect performance data, and help develop documentation, operating strategies, and maintenance standards.
• Manage and support projects such as feasibility studies, system assessments, and budget development.
• Review drawings, specifications, and calculations for steam and chilled water systems.
• Support planning for campus growth, conversions, and development of district thermal plants.
• Collaborate with operations teams, consultants, manufacturers, and design professionals to ensure systems are designed and operated for long‑term efficiency and maintainability.
• Provide training, workshops, and technical resources for operations and maintenance staff.
• Drive system and plant efficiency utilizing campus thermal models.
• May supervise staff, including hiring, mentoring, and performance management.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3‑5 years of hands‑on experience with large‑scale steam or chilled water utility systems.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot, analyze, and resolve complex mechanical system problems.
• Demonstrated experience with large‑scale utility or district energy systems.
• Experience with both steam and chilled water systems and associated equipment.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license, or the ability to obtain.
• Experience with ASME piping and boiler pressure vessel code and ASHRAE standards.
• Experience in a campus, institutional, or industrial utility environment.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Certifications

Depending on level:

• Operations Engineer – Advanced Professional: Bachelor’s Degree >= 3 years relevant experience.
• Operations Engineer – Senior Professional: Bachelor’s Degree >= 6 years relevant experience.

Background Checks & Clearances

Employment requires background checks. A valid driver’s license and motor vehicle records check are also required. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits

Salary range: $81,312.00 – $154,452.00. Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; robust retirement plans; paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time); and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.

EEO Statement

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Penn State is committed to advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, support equity initiatives, and provide opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.