Overview
South Dakota State University (SDSU) is seeking an exceptional individual to join our team as the Director of Energy Systems. This pivotal position involves driving strategic initiatives, overseeing energy infrastructure, and spearheading programs that align with the university’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. This position is located in
Brookings, South Dakota .
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as a strategic partner in advancing the mission of the Facilities & Services Department.
Lead and develop an internal team focused on Energy Systems management and innovation.
Oversee campus resources to ensure the reliable and efficient delivery of heating and cooling services.
Coordinate activities with other divisions, departments, and external agencies to achieve shared goals.
Provide critical support to the Associate Vice President (AVP) of Facilities and Services.
Collaborate with the Facilities & Services leadership team to establish objectives, policies, and procedures that align with the vision of SDSU.
Ensure the quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliability of services related to the generation and distribution of central steam and chilled water utilities.
Manage the design and implementation of improvements to heating, ventilation, air-conditioning (HVAC), and building automation systems, ensuring compliance with established standards.
Maintain ongoing operations and oversee the maintenance of these systems to ensure long-term efficiency and performance.
Benefits SDSU offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. Relocation benefits are available per university guidelines. The university’s retirement plan includes 6% matching; annual leave and sick leave accruals, and eleven paid holidays. Internal and state-sponsored training and reduced tuition for state-supported courses are available at State of South Dakota institutions.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field completed by start date;
At least five years of related experience in mechanical engineering, HVAC, energy systems, project management, commissioning, or related field;
Computer experience including Autodesk, Microsoft E-mail, Word, and Excel;
Demonstrated effective customer service skills;
Organized, detailed, and results oriented;
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to exercise sound judgment and make good decisions based on the best interests of stakeholders;
Effective verbal communication and interpersonal skills;
Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in
mechanical
engineering by start date
Supervisory or leadership experience
Licensed professional engineer
Experience working with university facilities or in facilities management
Experience in managing or operating central utility generation
Experience with HVAC design, operation, and maintenance
Experience with building automated controls
Knowledge of or experience with energy conservation practices
Knowledge of or experience with sustainability
Master’s degree in architecture, engineering or related field
Application Process SDSU accepts applications through an online employment site. To apply, visit
https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu , search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. Attach a cover letter addressing how the candidate meets the qualifications, a resume, and a reference page with contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. For assistance, contact SDSU Human Resources at (605) 688-4128.
Additional Information Posting Date: 02/06/2026
Closing Date: 02/27/2026
Open Until Filled: No
Salary: The salary range for the Director of Energy Systems position is
$95,000 - $115,000 .
Duration of Term: 12 months
Appointment Percent: 100%
Work Hours: Monday – Friday 8a-5p normally but will involve weekends/holidays.
Equal Employment Opportunity SDSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to sex, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, age, disability, or veteran’s status. Arrangements for accommodations can be made by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. For concerns regarding discrimination, contact the Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.
Contact Information For questions on the position, contact Associate Vice President, Barry Mielke at 605-688-4136 or
Barry.Mielke@sdstate.edu .
Working Conditions Note: The original content included various sections describing cognitive requirements, protective equipment, physical requirements, sensory requirements, and environmental conditions. If these are required, please provide them in a separate, compliant format as part of the official posting. This reformatted version focuses on job responsibilities, qualifications, and application details.
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Brookings, South Dakota .
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as a strategic partner in advancing the mission of the Facilities & Services Department.
Lead and develop an internal team focused on Energy Systems management and innovation.
Oversee campus resources to ensure the reliable and efficient delivery of heating and cooling services.
Coordinate activities with other divisions, departments, and external agencies to achieve shared goals.
Provide critical support to the Associate Vice President (AVP) of Facilities and Services.
Collaborate with the Facilities & Services leadership team to establish objectives, policies, and procedures that align with the vision of SDSU.
Ensure the quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliability of services related to the generation and distribution of central steam and chilled water utilities.
Manage the design and implementation of improvements to heating, ventilation, air-conditioning (HVAC), and building automation systems, ensuring compliance with established standards.
Maintain ongoing operations and oversee the maintenance of these systems to ensure long-term efficiency and performance.
Benefits SDSU offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. Relocation benefits are available per university guidelines. The university’s retirement plan includes 6% matching; annual leave and sick leave accruals, and eleven paid holidays. Internal and state-sponsored training and reduced tuition for state-supported courses are available at State of South Dakota institutions.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field completed by start date;
At least five years of related experience in mechanical engineering, HVAC, energy systems, project management, commissioning, or related field;
Computer experience including Autodesk, Microsoft E-mail, Word, and Excel;
Demonstrated effective customer service skills;
Organized, detailed, and results oriented;
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to exercise sound judgment and make good decisions based on the best interests of stakeholders;
Effective verbal communication and interpersonal skills;
Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in
mechanical
engineering by start date
Supervisory or leadership experience
Licensed professional engineer
Experience working with university facilities or in facilities management
Experience in managing or operating central utility generation
Experience with HVAC design, operation, and maintenance
Experience with building automated controls
Knowledge of or experience with energy conservation practices
Knowledge of or experience with sustainability
Master’s degree in architecture, engineering or related field
Application Process SDSU accepts applications through an online employment site. To apply, visit
https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu , search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. Attach a cover letter addressing how the candidate meets the qualifications, a resume, and a reference page with contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. For assistance, contact SDSU Human Resources at (605) 688-4128.
Additional Information Posting Date: 02/06/2026
Closing Date: 02/27/2026
Open Until Filled: No
Salary: The salary range for the Director of Energy Systems position is
$95,000 - $115,000 .
Duration of Term: 12 months
Appointment Percent: 100%
Work Hours: Monday – Friday 8a-5p normally but will involve weekends/holidays.
Equal Employment Opportunity SDSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to sex, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, age, disability, or veteran’s status. Arrangements for accommodations can be made by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. For concerns regarding discrimination, contact the Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.
Contact Information For questions on the position, contact Associate Vice President, Barry Mielke at 605-688-4136 or
Barry.Mielke@sdstate.edu .
Working Conditions Note: The original content included various sections describing cognitive requirements, protective equipment, physical requirements, sensory requirements, and environmental conditions. If these are required, please provide them in a separate, compliant format as part of the official posting. This reformatted version focuses on job responsibilities, qualifications, and application details.
#J-18808-Ljbffr