Job Description

Posting Details
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Institution South Dakota State University
Working Title Director of Energy Systems
Posting Number NFE02925P
Department SDSU-Facilities & Services-Energy Systems
Physical Location of Position (City) Brookings
Posting Text
South Dakota State University (SDSU) is seeking an exceptional individual to join our team as the Director of Energy Systems. This pivotal position involves driving strategic initiatives, overseeing energy infrastructure, and spearheading programs that align with the university's commitment to sustainability and innovation.
This position is located in
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve as a strategic partner in advancing the mission of the Facilities & Services Department.
• Lead and develop an internal team focused on Energy Systems management and innovation.
• Oversee campus resources to ensure the reliable and efficient delivery of heating and cooling services.
• Coordinate activities with other divisions, departments, and external agencies to achieve shared goals.
• Provide critical support to the Associate Vice President (AVP) of Facilities and Services.
• Collaborate with the Facilities & Services leadership team to establish objectives, policies, and procedures that align with the vision of South Dakota State University (SDSU).
• Ensure the quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliability of services related to the generation and distribution of central steam and chilled water utilities.
• Manage the design and implementation of improvements to heating, ventilation, air-conditioning (HVAC), and building automation systems, ensuring compliance with established standards.
• Maintain ongoing operations and oversee the maintenance of these systems to ensure long-term efficiency and performance.

BENEFITS:
including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions. Relocation benefits are available per university's guidelines.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field completed by start date;
• At least five years of related experience in mechanical engineering, HVAC, energy systems, project management, commissioning, or related field
• Computer experience including Autodesk, Microsoft E-mail, Word, and Excel
• Demonstrated effective customer service skills
• Organized, detailed, and results oriented
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to exercise sound judgment and make good decisions based on the best interests of stakeholders
• Effective written communication skills
• Effective verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Valid driver's license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering by start date
• Supervisory or leadership experience
• Licensed professional engineer
• Experience working with university facilities or in facilities management
• Experience in managing or operating central utility generation
• Experience with HVAC design, operation, and maintenance
• Experience with building automated controls
• Knowledge of or experience with energy conservation practices
• Knowledge of or experience with sustainability
• Master's degree in architecture, engineering or related field

APPLICATION PROCESS:
SDState accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: , search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on "apply for this job." This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, resume, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDState Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.
Any offer of employment is contingent on the university's verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check.
SDState is a tobacco free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State University's Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.
Posting Date 12/12/2025
Closing Date 01/05/2026
Open Until Filled No
First Consideration Date
Advertised Salary The salary range for the Director of Energy Systems position is $95,000 - $115,000.
Duration of the Term 12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent 100
Work Hours
Monday - Friday 8a-5p normally but will involve weekends/holidays.
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type Regular
Faculty Status No
Scope of Search External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
This position requires Weekends/Holidays, Valid Drivers License
If other, please indicate
Department Description and Cultural Expectations
is the state's largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. The manages the production and distribution of the heating and cooling for campus. Our staff of engineers and technicians continually assess new technologies and energy options to assure SDSU utilizes the most efficient and reliable systems both environmentally and fiscally.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant access mission. SDSU is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits discrimination on, the basis of, sex, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran's status, or any other status that may become protected in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.
Contact Information
For questions on the position, contact Associate Vice President, Barry Mielke at 605-688-4136 or .

Skills Required