Energy Efficiency Engineer

Company Overview

Michaels Energy is a veteran‑owned energy consulting firm that helps businesses minimize waste and maximize value through energy saving and process optimization.

Michaels Energy is seeking an Associate Engineer to support utility energy efficiency programs in Iowa, primarily focused on commercial and industrial energy audits and custom rebate projects. This role is ideal for a recent engineering graduate or early‑career engineer who is passionate about energy efficiency and eager to build technical and client‑facing consulting skills.

• Conduct onsite energy assessments, collect field data, and review and develop custom energy calculations.
• Analyze building and industrial system performance for HVAC, chilled water, compressed air, industrial refrigeration, and building controls.
• Prepare reports that help customers identify energy‑saving opportunities.
• Engage in onsite meetings, presentations, and collaboration with contractors and building owners.
• Produce both technical and non‑technical written documentation.

After 3 months, you will have….

• Learned company processes and procedures.
• Completed multiple custom energy analyses.
• Completed at least one site visit.

After 6 months, you will have….

• Acquired a thorough understanding of program design and guidelines.
• Completed multiple site visits and reports independently.
• Managed custom rebates with limited guidance.

• Utilization (assignable projects).
• On‑budget project performance.
• Client/customer satisfaction.
• Attention to detail.

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in mechanical, chemical, or building systems engineering.
• 0 to 5 years of experience in any of the following areas:
  • Energy efficiency industry (e.g., utilities or performance contracting).
  • HVAC operations, controls, and/or building energy investigations.
  • Utility program experience in retro‑commissioning, ASHRAE Level 2 energy audits, or custom rebate calculations.
  • Electrification technologies (heat pumps, heat recovery chillers, etc.).
  • Managing building retrofit projects.
  • Implementing controls upgrades.
  • Building codes and safety standards.
• EIT or PE preferred but not required.
• Excellent communication of complex ideas to diverse audiences.
• Strong interfacing skills with contractors and building owners.
• Deep interest in energy, systems, and process efficiency.
• Self‑learning mindset.
• Ability to travel up to 25% regionally for onsite work.

• Recent graduates are preferred to spend at least three months in La Crosse, WI before relocating to an Iowa population center. Experienced candidates who already reside in Iowa may waive the La Crosse requirement.

• Work from home, in‑office, or hybrid within Iowa. Candidates should be located near a larger Iowa population center or within commuting distance of the Cedar Rapids office.
• Recent graduates are encouraged to spend an initial period of at least three months in La Crosse, WI before relocating.

$80,000 – $100,000.

• Sit, stand, and walk moderate distances.
• Frequently lift or move objects up to 10 pounds.
• Occasionally lift or move objects up to 50 pounds.
• Occasionally crawl on the floor and climb ladders.

We are an equal‑opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status. We strive to build and nurture an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity.