Associate Director of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Systems - University of Southern Mississippi
About The Position
The University of Southern Mississippi is seeking an Associate Director of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Systems to join their Physical Plant team. This leadership role will oversee critical MEP systems across a complex institutional environment, including academic, residential, athletic, and historic facilities. The position is instrumental in major campus infrastructure modernization, deferred maintenance planning, utilities strategy, and renovation initiatives. The role involves partnering with skilled trades teams, consultants, and university leadership. This is a fully onsite opportunity with a focus on long-term impact and work-life balance.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Four (4) years of facilities, engineering, construction, or related experience
- In lieu of a degree, ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in a similar role may be considered
- Experience supporting or overseeing MEP systems, facilities operations, construction projects, or campus infrastructure
- Strong working knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and/or energy systems
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, and technical documentation
- Experience collaborating across teams and solving complex operational challenges
- Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to work effectively across technical and non-technical groups
- Valid driver’s license required
Nice To Haves
- Professional Engineering (PE) license in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering
- Higher education facilities experience
- LEED Accreditation
- Experience with building automation systems (BAS), energy management systems, or facilities technology platforms
Responsibilities
- Provide leadership and technical oversight for campus electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and energy management operations
- Support and guide two direct reports overseeing approximately 20 skilled trades employees across electrical, HVAC, and plumbing functions
- Partner with architects, engineers, contractors, and internal stakeholders on new construction and renovation projects
- Lead planning, design review, and implementation of MEP systems with an emphasis on operational efficiency and sustainability
- Identify and implement energy conservation and utility cost reduction opportunities across campus systems
- Monitor and evaluate campus utility consumption, reporting, and energy performance metrics
- Ensure compliance with applicable utility, gas system, and environmental regulations
- Serve as a technical resource for underground utility infrastructure and campus systems coordination
- Support ongoing modernization initiatives, including integration of project management and work order systems
- Contribute to grant applications, funding proposals, and long-range infrastructure planning efforts
- Represent the university with state agencies, utility providers, and professional organizations
Benefits
- Tuition remission benefits for employees and dependents
- Stable, predictable schedules aligned with the academic calendar
- Comprehensive medical, retirement, and paid leave programs
- Relocation assistance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
