Director of Energy and Engineering; On-site

Hiring Range

The University of California, Merced is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position.

Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. The salary range the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $120,800 - $151,000.

This is a 100% campus-based position. The initial applicant review will take place on or around March 12, 2026. Posting will remain until filled.

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses and one of the youngest universities to be designated an R1 research university. With approximately 9,100 undergraduate and graduate students, UC Merced is a smaller, more intimate campus compared to its sister campuses, while equipped and staffed as a cutting edge, 21st century research institution.

With bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs, strong research and academic partnerships and a growing community in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, the UC Merced campus is continually evolving and requires talented, knowledgeable and dynamic educators, researchers, management and staff. Ranked in the top 30 among the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and #1 for social mobility by the Wall Street Journal, UC Merced is uniquely equipped to provide world class educational opportunities to dynamic and enterprising students in the Valley and throughout the state.

In partnership with UC San Francisco, UC Merced has launched a rigorous medical education program that will supply the Valley with culturally competent providers dedicated to improving local access to quality care. The campus enjoys a special connection with nearby Yosemite National Park, is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design and is accelerating the continued economic development of the region.

The Director of Energy & Engineering serves as the university's senior engineering authority for campus energy systems, utility infrastructure, and engineering operations. Operating with a high degree of autonomy and seasoned professional judgment, the Director provides strategic leadership across energy management, engineering design, capital renewal, utilities operations, and sustainability initiatives. This role oversees a multidisciplinary team responsible for the safe, reliable, and cost‑efficient operation of the campus utility enterprise—including the Central Heating & Cooling Plant, Thermal Energy Storage facility, high‑pressure steam and condensate systems, chilled water distribution network, and potable water systems.

The Director ensures these systems meet stringent standards for safety, efficiency, regulatory compliance, resilience, and long‑term asset stewardship. The Director establishes engineering goals, policies, and technical standards that support the University's mission of teaching, research, and public service. Responsibilities include optimizing HVAC and central plant performance; developing and implementing operating procedures; leading system diagnostics and performance analytics; and providing engineering expertise for major construction, capital renewal, and infrastructure expansion projects.

The position also develops and oversees emergency response plans for energy and HVAC systems to mitigate service interruptions and ensure business continuity. The Director will be required to drive a vehicle on and off campus to UCM satellite locations to evaluate buildings, including MEP systems and meeting with contractors, stakeholders, etc. A key leader in advancing university‑wide sustainability and decarbonization objectives, the Director integrates energy strategy with facilities…