Director Building Performance Jobs in Elizabeth, NJ

The Opportunity

You will co-lead a small, highly technical team of energy and sustainability engineers working across the full lifecycle of building performance - from design advisory and energy modeling through commissioning, retro-commissioning, and ongoing optimization.

The work spans multifamily, commercial, and industrial assets. You'll collaborate directly with architects, design engineers, contractors, and building operators to ensure systems perform as intended and facilities deliver real value - not just on paper, but in operation.

This is a hands-on leadership role. You'll be in mechanical rooms, on rooftops, and in front of clients as often as you're guiding your team's work. If you enjoy fieldwork, thrive on technical problem-solving, and want to shape how buildings actually perform, this role was built for you.

About Altanova

Altanova is a multidisciplinary consulting firm and energy innovation leader. Our Real Estate & Built Environment practice combines engineering, technology, design strategy, and data-driven analysis to deliver high-performance buildings - assets that are efficient, resilient, healthy for occupants, and environmentally responsible.

We work closely with developers, owners, operators, and design teams to deliver solutions that are both innovative and practical, helping clients achieve economic success alongside meaningful environmental impact.

What You'll Do

Commissioning (New Construction & Existing Buildings)

• Lead commissioning, ongoing commissioning, monitoring-based commissioning, and retro-commissioning engagements
• Develop commissioning plans and oversee functional performance testing
• Perform HVAC functional testing including point verification and sequence of operations testing
• Execute or witness testing of electrical, lighting, life safety, fire protection, and plumbing systems
• Conduct construction inspections to verify MEP installations conform to project documents
• Lead commissioning meetings with project stakeholders; document results and track issue resolution

Energy Audits & Performance Analysis

• Conduct ASHRAE Level I, II, and III energy audits
• Analyze utility data, building drawings, and operational data to characterize energy consumption
• Perform onsite inspections of mechanical and building systems
• Identify, evaluate, and quantify Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs)
• Prepare technical reports and client deliverables summarizing findings and recommendations

Systems Optimization & Advisory

• Evaluate and optimize HVAC, air and water distribution, and building automation systems
• Collaborate with energy modelers to inform high-performance design decisions
• Identify operational improvements that reduce energy use and environmental impact
• Support building performance modeling as needed

Team Leadership

• Co-lead and mentor a team of engineers and consultants
• Manage project delivery, timelines, and workload delegation
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients and project teams

What You Bring

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Building Technology, Applied Physics, or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in commercial building energy performance, spanning new construction and existing facilities
• Commissioning certification from ASHRAE, AEE, or BCA
• Strong working knowledge of building energy codes and ASHRAE standards
• Hands-on experience with building automation systems (BAS) and controls troubleshooting
• Experience optimizing HVAC systems
• Advanced technical writing and communication skills
• Project management experience with the ability to delegate effectively

Preferred

• Professional Engineer (PE) license in New York
• Energy modeling experience using EnergyPlus, DOE-2, or DesignBuilder
• Experience with NYS energy incentive programs
• Familiarity with rating systems such as ENERGY STAR MFNC, ZERH, LEED, Energize Green Communities, Living Building Challenge, or WELL
• Experience conducting whole-building or structural life-cycle assessments
• Background in indoor air quality (IAQ) assessment

What We Offer

• Compensation: Competitive salary with performance-based bonus. Candidates at varying experience levels are encouraged to apply.
• Equity path: Possibility of earning equity after an initial vesting period, with partnership opportunities for existing business owners/founders.
• Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance; company-paid disability and life insurance; 401(k) match; pre-tax commuter benefits.
• Time off: Up to 5 weeks PTO, 10 paid holidays, and paid sick leave.
• Growth: Annual education budget for training and certifications, with opportunities for rapid advancement in a collaborative, high-caliber team working on ambitious projects.

Good to Know

This role involves travel and site visits (5-10%) to active construction sites and operating buildings. You will need to access mechanical spaces and rooftops and may occasionally carry testing equipment.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a cover letter. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

Altanova is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.