Director of Engineering (Syracuse)

Director of EngineeringJob SummaryThe Director of Engineering is a key leadership role within the Syracuse Operations team and serves as a technical authority for the organization. Reporting directly to the SVP of Concessions, this role operates in a highly collaborative, flat organizational structure with direct visibility and access to senior leadership.The Director of Engineering will lead engineering strategy, oversee technical operations for district energy systems, and drive performance, reliability, and continuous improvement across utility infrastructure. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise in district energy systems along with strong leadership in capital projects, system optimization, and regulatory compliance.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide technical leadership for district energy systems including steam, chilled water, HVAC, and CHP operationsOversee engineering design, construction, commissioning, and optimization of utility infrastructure projectsLead capital planning, scope development (SOW), budgeting, and execution of major infrastructure initiativesDrive system performance improvements through data analysis, KPI development, and operational benchmarkingPartner with operations teams to troubleshoot complex system issues and implement long-term reliability solutionsEnsure compliance with environmental and regulatory requirements, including Title V permitting and related standardsReview and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and construction documentationDevelop technical reports, operational procedures, and engineering documentation to support system performance and complianceSupport asset management strategies, including lifecycle planning and preventative maintenance optimizationCollaborate across multi-discipline engineering, construction, and operations teams to deliver projects and improve system efficiencyTechnical QualificationsDistrict Energy & Utility SystemsExtensive experience with district energy systems (steam, hot water, chilled water, CHP)Strong HVAC design knowledge with application of ASHRAE standardsUnderstanding of piping systems, controls engineering, and thermal energy distribution systemsExperience working in large-scale facilities, campuses, or utility environmentsEnergy Analysis & System OptimizationProven ability to analyze energy consumption data and identify optimization opportunitiesExperience developing and tracking operational KPIs for plant or utility systemsStrong root cause analysis skills for identifying and resolving system performance issuesExperience maintaining or working with operational performance databases or dashboardsCapital Projects & Engineering DesignDemonstrated leadership in full project lifecycle delivery (design through commissioning)Experience developing scopes of work, capital plans, and project budgetsAbility to coordinate multidisciplinary engineering and construction teamsStrong understanding of construction management principles and execution planningRegulatory & ComplianceExperience supporting environmental compliance programs (including Title V or similar permitting)Working knowledge of safety, environmental, and energy regulations affecting utility operationsFamiliarity with emissions compliance and infrastructure regulatory requirementsTechnical Documentation & ToolsAbility to read, interpret, and apply engineering drawings and construction documentsStrong technical writing skills for reports, procedures, and operational documentationProficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)Experience with project scheduling tools (e.g., MS Project or equivalent)Operations & ReliabilityExperience supporting operations teams in troubleshooting and system optimizationKnowledge of preventative maintenance strategies and asset lifecycle managementExperience specifying, selecting, and managing technical equipment and systemsStrong focus on improving system reliability, efficiency, and long-term performanceIndustry ExperienceBackground in utility, district energy, or large-scale infrastructure systemsExperience with boilers, chillers, and thermal energy systemsFamiliarity with campus or municipal heating and cooling distribution systemsExposure to emergency response planning and infrastructure resilience strategiesPhysical RequirementsThis role requires both office and field-based work within active utility environments:Regular use of hands, tools, and controls; ability to communicate effectively in operational settingsFrequent standing, walking, climbing, and balancingOccasional kneeling, crouching, or crawlingAbility to occasionally lift up to 50 lbsWork may include confined spaces and environments with elevated temperature/humidityOccasional work at heights, including roofs and cooling towersHealth, Safety & Environment (HSE)Promote and maintain a safe and healthy work environment for all employeesComply with all applicable health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policiesIdentify, report, and help resolve workplace hazards immediatelyReport all incidents and injuries promptly in accordance with company proceduresConditions of EmploymentOccasional travel across company locationsMust meet requirements for authorized vehicle operation, including valid driver's license and clean driving recordDriving record will be reviewed during pre-employment screening and annually