Facilities Engineer

Details•Troy, NY

9d•$100,000 - $115,000•Onsite

About The Position

Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is the first technological research university in the United States. We bring creativity, science, and technology together to address society's greatest challenges. We cultivate exceptional problem-solvers by immersing them in a culture of rigorous inquiry, disciplined practice, and hands-on application. Our strategic plan, RPI Forward, charts a pioneering course for the next era of RPI. Explore the RPI Forward plan. ↗︎ Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, RPI is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world. With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, Rensselaer offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth. Job Summary The Facilities Engineer supports the operation, maintenance, and renewal of campus infrastructure at a leading research university. The Facilities Engineer ensures the reliability, safety, and efficiency of building systems that serve academic, residential, and research facilities. The Facilities Engineer will coordinate with campus operations staff, faculty, consultants, and contractors to maintain and improve systems such as electrical distribution, HVAC, plumbing, and life safety.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field
At least 7 years of experience in facilities engineering, building systems, or campus utilities
Familiarity with electrical distribution systems (e.g., 13.8kV, 480V/208V, switchgear, generators, UPS, lighting controls) or the ability to quickly develop electrical proficiency in a facilities setting
Relevant combinations of education, training and experience may be considered.
Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Knowledge of HVAC systems, central energy plants, and building automation.
Ability to work collaboratively across trades and with academic/research stakeholders.
Ability to read and understand construction documents, specifications, contracts
Must be familiar with standard construction specifications and construction means and methods required to accomplish a general project, i.e., equipment, tools, trade needs, etc.
Requires in-depth knowledge of electrical building systems
Ability to operate a PC using standard office software
Must be flexible in work style; able to work effectively with project representatives and workers from all fields
Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively
Ability to build a team in a group of diverse disciplines; must function as part of a team and collaborate effectively with others

Nice To Haves

Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer-in-Training (EIT).
Experience in higher education, healthcare, or research-intensive facilities.
Knowledge of campus utility distribution systems and/or chilled water/steam plants.
Familiarity with sustainability certifications (e.g., LEED) and energy efficiency programs.
Experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

Responsibilities

Provide technical support for campus utilities and building systems, including electrical distribution (medium and low voltage), HVAC systems, central plant equipment, plumbing, controls, and fire protection.
Manage small- to mid-size capital projects related to infrastructure renewal, energy upgrades, and system replacements — from concept through closeout.
Act as owner’s representative for capital renewal, deferred maintenance, and energy projects, coordinating with design teams, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
Review and interpret design drawings, specifications, submittals, and project documentation to ensure compliance with university standards and applicable codes (NEC, NFPA, ASHRAE, local/state codes).
Prepare scopes of work, budgets, and schedules for infrastructure projects; monitor project progress and resolve field issues as needed.
Administer contracts for consultants, contractors, and service providers: including procurement, invoice review, change order evaluation, and performance monitoring
Troubleshoot facilities issues and support root-cause analysis in collaboration with trades personnel, vendors, and engineering consultants.
Support research, residential, and instructional buildings with unique and complex infrastructure needs.
Contribute to campus initiatives in sustainability, energy efficiency, and resiliency through system upgrades and performance improvements.
Maintain and update system documentation, as-builts, O&M manuals, and asset data.
Participate in utility master planning and long-term infrastructure strategy development.
Effectively communicate with faculty, staff, and students to minimize operational disruptions during maintenance or construction activities.
Other duties as assigned.