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Mechanical Engineer - Steam and Chilled Water
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join the Utility Services team at University Park in a role responsible for Technical and Operational support for both steam and chilled water utility systems.
We recognize that deep expertise in both disciplines is uncommon, and we welcome candidates with demonstrated strength in either steam or chilled water systems who bring the intellectual curiosity and professional drive to develop fluency in the other. Penn State's scale and complexity provide a fantastic environment for growth, including an impact on the long-range strategic direction of each utility system.
This position is a technically challenging, hands-on engineering role responsible for the reliable and efficient operation of one of the largest campus utility systems in the country, including steam generation and distribution, and central chilled water plants. The ideal candidate brings both deep technical knowledge and a drive to see problems through to resolution in a fast-paced, 24/7 operations-centered environment.
Key Responsibilities

• Provide operational technical expertise for steam and chilled water utilities.
• Work closely with supervisors and technicians to optimize control system performance; review maintenance plans and support corrective repairs.
• Evaluate data in support of root cause failure analysis and strong preventative maintenance programs.
• Develop, implement, and maintain preventative maintenance programs for steam and chilled water assets (boilers, economizers, deaerators, motors, pumps, valves, strainers, piping, plate-and-frame heat exchangers, and coils).
• Conduct field verifications, collect performance data, and help develop documentation, operating strategies, and maintenance standards.
• Manage and support projects such as feasibility studies, system assessments, and budget development.
• Review drawings, specifications, and calculations for steam and chilled water systems.
• Support planning for campus growth, conversions, and development of district thermal plants.
• Collaborate with operations teams, consultants, manufacturers, and design professionals to ensure systems are designed and operated for long-term efficiency and maintainability.
• Provide training, workshops, and technical resources for operations and maintenance staff.
• Drive system and plant efficiency utilizing campus thermal models.
• May supervise staff, including hiring, mentoring, and performance management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3-5 years of hands-on experience with large-scale steam or chilled water utility systems.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot, analyze, and resolve complex mechanical system problems.
• Demonstrated experience with large-scale utility or district energy systems.
• Experience with both steam and chilled water systems and associated equipment.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license, or the ability to obtain.
• Experience with ASME piping and boiler pressure vessel code and ASHRAE standards.
• Experience in a campus, institutional, or industrial utility environment.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Operations Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree
3+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications:
None
If filled as Operations Engineer - Senior Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree
6+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $81,312.00 - $154,452.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact [phone removed].
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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Employment Type: Full Time