Mechanical Project Engineer

The Mechanical Project Engineer is a member of the Mechanical Systems Group, within the Facilities Engineering and Campus Energy Department, and reports to the Director of Mechanical Systems Group. Depending on the size of the project, the Mechanical Systems Group may be responsible for the design, installation, commissioning and/or maintenance of campus building mechanical systems.

The Mechanical Project Engineer will be the authority on the mechanical systems in their set of assigned campus buildings (approximately 40 buildings of various types). The engineer is expected to know the types and arrangements of HVAC systems, the areas they serve, sequence of operations, general or specific condition of equipment (age, shortcomings), building service locations, location of isolation devices, and source of thermal and electrical power. Also, the Mechanical Project Engineer shall be familiar with the buildings’ plumbing, fire protection, and lab systems. This position will also require a general familiarity with all campus buildings.

This position must embody the core values essential to the Facilities Organization: teamwork, innovation, integrity, inclusiveness, respect, and sustainability. The Mechanical Project Engineer collaborates with administrative leadership within Facilities to support the Campus.

Design and PROJECT MANAGEMENT

• Understand the technical options available to solve building system issues. Research the system options as needed to engage with maintenance personnel, contractors, and consultants on ideas and solutions.
• Function as the Technical Representative (Tech Rep) on new building and capital renovation projects that are managed by the Office of Capital Projects (OCP) and designed by outside architects and consulting engineers. Review work that ranges in construction cost from $100K to $100M. Ensure that the right types of mechanical systems are designed for the project; that the consultant’s design conforms to our design standards; and that it is built correctly. Work with the consulting engineer, the OCP Project Manager, and Facilities maintenance department on each of the projects that the mechanical engineering is covering. Provide one voice to the consulting engineer that represents the University on mechanical engineering issues.
• Evaluate building tenant (research faculty and staff) needs for existing building system additions and changes, through our Major Maintenance Program. Function as the design engineer on a project or contract work to a consulting engineer depending on the size and complexity of the project and the engineers’ workload.
• Evaluate existing mechanical systems for proper, efficient operation as part of ongoing maintenance, sustainability, and energy efficiency programs. These evaluations may include Recommissioning, Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) and energy usage modeling.
• Investigate and trouble-shoot building system problems. Develop projects to address system deficiencies as needed.
• Provide technical assistance, as needed, for permits and inspections.
• Investigate new/emerging mechanical products/systems for applicability to Princeton University Facilities. Conduct testing as appropriate.
• Provide technical assistance to academic researchers in configuration and installation of lab equipment.
• Understand and apply safe construction work practices.
• Understand the requirements and issues associated with large campus thermal distribution systems. Work with the campus civil engineer and the Maintenance Department on the thermal distribution systems.

MAINTENANCE TASKS

• Ensure safety and comfort for building occupants while using energy efficiently. Coordinate with the Maintenance Department, Environmental Health & Safety, and the Building Controls group.
• Provide technical assistance to academic departments, Office of Capital Projects (OCP), and Maintenance Department on building renovations, system repairs, and capital construction projects.
• Work with Utility Plant, Campus Energy Manager, and Building Controls groups to evaluate building system performance, and energy usage. Understand building dynamics and HVAC computerized controls especially the sequence of operation for the building HVAC systems. Apply flow balancing and commissioning procedures for data acquisition and trending analysis.

ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS

• Manage mechanical projects, including responsibilities for project scope, schedule, customer interface, quality of work, and budget. Projects typically range in value from $10k-$2,000k.
• Update the Design Standards Manual (DSM) HVAC systems. Assist with updates to refrigeration, plumbing, fire protection, lab design, and laboratory services systems for campus facilities. Ensure these standards, as well as relevant codes and standards, are met during renovation and new construction projects.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME).
• Five (5) years relevant experience.
• Some field experience required.
• Background in building HVAC design and construction.
• Versed in Engineering Economics, Construction Safety, Customer/Client Management, Project Management, Construction contracts and Sustainability issues.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and analytical skills.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Able to conduct investigations in buildings and utility tunnels.
• Able to safely navigate construction sites.
• Able to safely climb an 8-foot ladder.
• Available for work during non-working hours as required by the project schedule or emergencies.
• Able to work outdoors on investigative work.
• Position is essential as defined by Human Resources and Facilities policies.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with HVAC BAS DDC or PLC controls.
• Experience in ground source heat pump design and construction.
• Demonstrated computer and software skills including building energy modeling programs.
• Professional Engineering License or EIT in New Jersey.
• Advanced coursework in business related field or engineering.
• Experience in steam system design.
• Certified LEED Professional.
• Certified project management professional.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

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