Description of Work
Ranked as one of the Best Employers in the state of Nebraska, the University of Nebraska is committed to providing a work environment and culture that fosters personal and professional success and satisfaction. We invest in our staff by offering fantastic benefits like vacation, sick, and holiday pay, a variety of insurance options, retirement plans, and numerous others. By joining our team, you will be given opportunities to grow as an individual and contribute to the significant impact that we make within the University of Nebraska community and Nebraska’s economy each year.

This position is responsible for leadership of the Utility Engineering department, including developing plans, programs, and processes that ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient performance of Husker Energy & Power production and distribution assets. Specific responsibilities include engineering oversight of the operation and maintenance of steam, chilled water, electrical, and heat pump systems on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campuses, working closely with departmental staff to develop and improve system operational sequences and maintenance strategies, scoping and management of equipment repairs and upgrades, providing technical guidance for large capital projects, and assisting with tactical decision-making and strategic planning for Husker Energy & Power.
Develop and implement plans, programs, and processes related to Utility Plant operations with an emphasis on project development, operational guidance, production reporting, staff training and safety, and assistance with staff management.
Manage the performance and development of Utility Engineering assigned employees. Provide technical and organizational leadership, prioritize and assign work, establish and track goals, resolve conflicts, and recommend salary adjustments, promotions, and/or corrective action.
Develop and maintain knowledge of all Utility Plant MEP systems.
Collaborate with departmental staff, University Project Managers, commodity suppliers, and outside contractors to provide internal engineering support, communicate departmental needs, scope capital projects, and ensure project execution within budget and time constraints.
Assist in preparing department annual operating and capital budgets.
Assist with developing the long-range capital plan for utility infrastructure improvements.
Develop annual cost of service studies for utility production and present the utility rates structure, recommending necessary budget and rate adjustments or improvements to optimize use of allocated resources.
Coordinate the budgeting and purchase of commodities required for utility production, including Natural Gas purchase contracts and allotments.
Interface with departmental leadership and University stakeholders, advising on sustainability efforts related to energy use, ongoing projects, and strategic energy initiatives.
Develop analytics, dashboards, and reports to drive decision-making, track and enhance performance, and monitor budget.
Develop procedures and work processes to ensure departmental compliance with regulatory requirements, University policies, and applicable external guidance.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and diverse workforce in which employees’ differences are respected and valued to better meet the varying needs of the diverse populations we serve. The university fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment that promotes collaboration so that all individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential. As an EO/AA employer, qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See: http://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination
Minimum Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Industrial Engineering. Six (6) years’ experience in an industrial setting that includes a manufacturing and/or a utility production-type setting. Work history should demonstrate analytical/strategic thinking skills, supervisory skills, experience with design, problem solving ability, interpersonal skills, a high level of oral and written communication skills, and success both as a team member and individual.

Preferred Qualifications
Master of Engineering (M.E.) degree or Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. Supervisory experience. Budgeting experience. Utility rates and budget development and oversight processes. Familiarity with commodity purchase contracts and processes, including large volume Natural Gas. Project development and project management skills appropriate to large department level processes. Demonstrated change management, delegation, and cost consciousness skills. One or more of the following: Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the state of Nebraska or ability to obtain within 6 months following hire date. Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Certified Energy Auditor (CEA), Certified Measurement & Verification Professional (CMVP), or Certified Industrial Energy Professional (CIEP). Project Management Professional (PMP).