Sales Engineer

Tri-State Energy, Inc.; New Jersey; On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Tri-State Energy (TSE) seeks a Sales Engineer to identify and develop energy efficiency and engineering projects, promoting energy programs to clients, the in-house sales team, contractors, and stakeholders. The role requires strong communication and relationship-building to bridge sales and engineering.

You will conduct site surveys, perform HVAC load calculations, design layouts, select equipment, and support pricing, incentives, and project execution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, HVAC Engineering Technology, or related field.
• Interest in energy conservation essential.
• EIT or PE license preferred.
• HVAC certifications (LEED AP, CEM, ASHRAE) are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue HVAC project opportunities through outreach, referrals, and networking.
• Prepare proposals and technical solutions for customers.
• Develop designs, perform load calculations, and select equipment.
• Coordinate with manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors for pricing and support.
• Support permitting, code compliance, and project handoff to execution.

Skills

Public speaking

Customer service

Communication

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or HVAC

EIT/PE license (preferred)

LEED AP / ASHRAE certifications (preferred)

Tools

CRM software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

Tri-State Energy (TSE) is an energy efficiency consulting and implementation contracting firm with a 40-year history in customer service and energy cost saving delivery. TSE is a Minority Based Enterprise (MBE) for multiple states and has a major focus on providing support for DEI and Diversity initiatives. Regionally, TSE delivers Direct Install Programs, Engineered Solutions Programs, Energy Savings Improvement Programs, and Engineering Services for Municipal, Commercial and Industrial Clients. TSE is consistently recognized and awarded for being a small business champion that marries innovative technology with small company personalization and service. We are growing and looking to hire dedicated, industry-qualified candidates at all experience levels to grow with our company.

Position Summary

The Sales Engineer role involves actively working on identifying and developing energy efficiency and engineering projects while promoting energy efficiency programs through various channels. This position requires strong communication and relationship-building skills to engage with in-house sales team, customers, contractors, and industry stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have a proficient understanding of energy efficiency within HVAC systems and ability to be a bridge between the sales and engineering team.

Essential Job Functions

Business Development & Sales

• Identify and pursue new HVAC project opportunities through direct outreach, networking, and referrals.
• Meet with prospective and existing clients to understand facility needs, operational challenges, and budget constraints.
• Prepare and present proposals, bids, and technical solutions to customers.
• Develop and maintain strong customer relationships to drive repeat business and referrals.
• Partner with outreach teams to technically qualify and develop new project opportunities.
• Match facility requirements to the most effective energy efficiency measures and program pathways.

Project Development & Engineering

• Conduct site surveys to assess existing HVAC systems, loads, and conditions.
• Perform engineering calculations including heating/cooling loads, airflow, and equipment sizing.
• Develop conceptual and detailed designs, schematics, and system layouts.
• Select equipment (chillers, boilers, VRF, AHUs, RTUs, controls, etc.) and ensure proper integration with building systems.
• Coordinate with manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors for pricing, availability, and technical support.

Technical & Financial Analysis

• Prepare energy efficiency and lifecycle cost analyses for proposed systems.
• Support utility incentive applications by providing technical documentation and savings calculations.
• Estimate material, labor, and subcontractor costs for proposals.
• Interface directly with Utility Program Managers to pre-verify project eligibility and maximize custom incentive values.

Project Coordination

• Collaborate with project managers to ensure smooth handoff from sales to execution.
• Support permitting, code compliance, and submittal preparation.
• Provide technical guidance during installation and commissioning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, HVAC Engineering Technology, or related field (preferred).
• A demonstrated interest in energy conservation is essential.
• EIT or PE license (preferred but not required).
• HVAC industry certifications (e.g., LEED AP, CEM, ASHRAE member) are a plus.
• Must reside in New Jersey.
• Possession of a valid US driver’s license.
• Willingness and ability to travel within the Tri-State area, with some overnight travel required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Technical Knowledge:

• Familiarity with lighting components, HVAC equipment, HVAC systems, lighting control systems, and building envelope components.
• Understanding of LEED, Energy Star, and/or GRESB standards.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and basic knowledge of CRM database software.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills:

• Excellent public speaking and written communication skills.
• Strong customer service skills, with a focus on proactively identifying customer needs and managing expectations.
• Capable of engaging customers, industry stakeholders, and local government officials through various com