Director of Energy Systems

Posting Details

Posting Number: NFE
02990P

Institution:
South Dakota State University

Working Title:

Director of Energy Systems

Posting Date: 03/02/2026

First Consideration Date: 03/16/2026

Duration of Term: 12 months

Appointment Percent: 100%

Work Hours:

Monday – Friday 8am-5pm (normal workday, may involve weekends/holidays)

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.

Location:

Brookings, South Dakota.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

• 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 include medical, dental, flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. A generous retirement plan offers 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees have access to internal and state-sponsored training, reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all South Dakota academic institutions, and relocation benefits per university guidelines.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field completed by start date.
• At least five years of related experience in mechanical engineering, HVAC, energy systems, project management, commissioning, or a related field.
• Computer experience including Autodesk, Microsoft Email, 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.

• 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.

This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.

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. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact the Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator at Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: .