Building Optimization Engineer
Join our growing team powering a sustainable, well, and resilient future. At HEAPY, we create inspiring spaces and solutions to build a more sustainable, well, and resilient society. We foster a Colleague First culture where your strengths are supported and your growth is prioritized. As we expand to meet client and community needs, we’re offering exciting new roles and growth opportunities.
About the role
HEAPY is seeking a Senior Level Commissioning/Optimization Engineer or Administrator to join our team. In this role, you’ll perform a variety of assignments related to HVAC commissioning, Monitoring-based Commissioning, Facility Optimization, Energy Assessment, Energy Conservation, Energy Studies, and Measurement Verification projects. You’ll work collaboratively with other practice colleagues to deliver meaningful projects in a trusted, long-standing market.
Responsibilities
- Performs HVAC Commissioning activities, including checking controls and sequencing to maximize system functionality.
- Engages in energy studies, including audits and analysis of existing and new building systems (HVAC, lighting, envelope, etc.).
- Performs system installation, verification, and functional performance testing.
- Performs onsite validation and review of equipment and controls to identify proper operation and/or opportunities to improve performance.
- Prepares energy calculations, utility rate structures, testing procedures, plans, or reports involving HVAC, lighting, standby power, and other energy-consuming or producing equipment, components, or systems.
- Verifies that owners’ project requirements are met from project design through operations.
- Leads by example in hitting client deadlines and performing multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
- Leverages MEP system knowledge to identify and quantify energy conservation measures (ECMs), working with design teams to recommend efficiency improvements.
- Reviews and provides feedback on energy models that simulate building performance and energy usage, ensuring compliance with measurement and verification standards.
- Mentors and supports colleagues in their technical development and professional growth at the request of the Operations Manager or Practice Technical Leader.
- Leads clients’ engagements by translating technical findings into meaningful recommendations, project scopes, and business cases.
- Performs life cycle cost analyses and evaluates project cash flow and incentive opportunities, preparing clear, visually compelling reports and presentations for internal teams, owners, and decision-makers.
- Stays informed of evolving energy codes, policies, incentives, and technologies to keep our clients ahead of the curve.
- Supports documents and submittals for client pursuits of LEED, Energy Star, and other relevant designations/certifications.
- Additional responsibilities as requested/needed.
Requirements
- Possession of a 4-year engineering or similar technical degree from an ABET-accredited program or equivalent working knowledge/experience in a technical role in the built environment (e.g., Commissioning Technician, HVAC Technician, or Energy Specialist).
- Typically requires 6–9 years of related experience (or equivalent working knowledge/experience/advanced degree in engineering) related to retro-commissioning/commissioning HVAC and MEP systems in the Built Environment.
- Working knowledge of various computer software packages, instrumentation, and testing equipment.
- Ideally, possesses a Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Certification and is working toward or has achieved CEM (Certified Energy Management) accreditation, CxA, CPP, or similar accreditations.
- For higher-level achievement, other relevant engineering education and credentials are typically desired, such as PE (Professional Engineer) and appropriate commissioning certification.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Ability to remain sedentary at a workstation for long periods while operating a keyboard and using a computer screen.
- Ability to communicate in person, electronically, and via phone with other individuals.
- Possession of reliable transportation to and from project sites.
- Ability to work in all elements of indoor and outdoor environments, including heat, cold, rain, snow, and wind.
- Ability to access all areas of the job site, including ascending and descending stairs, scaffolding, ladders, and navigating elevation changes.
- Capable of working in physical positions that may include kneeling, sitting, standing, squatting, or bending over.
- Ability to move, transport, or position items weighing up to 25 lbs.
- Ability to apply established protocols and practices in a timely manner.
- Ability to gather, organize, and evaluate information related to projects and calculations (e.g., energy calculations, percentages, numerical reasoning).
Benefits
- Premium medical, dental, and vision coverage designed with you in mind.
- 401(k) with competitive contributions to help you plan ahead.
- 10–15% annual bonus potential tied to company performance and your contributions.
- Open PTO and paid sick time for flexibility to recharge when needed.
- Wellness Week: the final week of the year to rest, reset, and reflect.
- Annual wellness benefit bonus focused on your overall well-being.
- Annual professional development stipend to support your career goals.