Utility Performance Engineer 1 or 2 or 3

About the Role

The University of Texas at Austin's Utilities and Energy Management (UEM) department is seeking a Utility Performance Engineer to support campus energy and water performance outcomes. This role involves engineering analysis, performance modeling, commissioning expertise, and technical recommendations for building and utility systems. You will evaluate demand- and/or supply-side utility performance, translate analytics into actionable recommendations, and collaborate with campus teams to improve efficiency, reliability, and long-term performance.

Key Responsibilities

• System Performance Analysis and Evaluation: Evaluate system performance through data analysis, trend evaluation, commissioning, field observations, and performance modeling. Identify inefficiencies, gaps, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Analytics Translation and Technical Recommendations: Apply analytics, operational data, and performance trends to support engineering evaluation. Translate technical findings into actionable recommendations for operating strategies, optimization, project development, and utility management.
• System Optimization and Commissioning: Support and lead performance optimization initiatives through existing building commissioning (EBCx), system assessments, operational reviews, control strategy evaluations, and performance verification.
• Project Development and Performance Improvement Support: Identify, evaluate, and support the development of performance improvement projects. Assess technical feasibility, lifecycle performance, expected savings, and operational impacts.
• Design Review, Standards, and Technical Guidance: Provide technical review and input on design, construction, renovation, and infrastructure projects to align with performance objectives. Contribute to the development of performance-based design criteria, engineering standards, and operational guidelines.
• Cross-Functional Coordination and Operational Support: Collaborate with Utilities, Facilities, and external partners to align technical solutions with performance objectives. Support troubleshooting and operational planning.
• Performance Monitoring, Reporting, and Continuous Improvement: Support benchmarking, performance monitoring, measurement and verification (M&V) activities, and reporting. Assist with the development of performance indicators and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Industry Best Practices and Program Development: Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices related to building performance, utility systems, and performance management. Contribute to the development of utility performance management strategies and programs.
• Performs other related functions as assigned, attends staff meetings, and safety training.
• Required to carry a University cell phone during work hours and adhere to UEM and University policies and procedures.
• Drive university vehicle or cart and maintain an acceptable driver rating.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Energy Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related field.
• Experience in one or more of the following: Building systems engineering, Energy management, Commissioning, Central utility plant operations, District energy systems, Building automation systems (BAS), Utility engineering, Facilities engineering, Performance optimization.
• Basic knowledge of HVAC, chilled water, steam, heating, cooling, electrical, water, or related building and utility infrastructure systems.
• Ability to analyze technical information and develop recommendations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to effectively work with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Qualifications (Specific to Engineer Level)

• Engineer I: 0 to 4 years of relevant experience.
• Engineer II: All qualifications for Engineer I, plus:
• 5 to 7 years of relevant professional experience.
• Demonstrated experience evaluating the performance of building and/or utility systems through engineering analysis, operational data, commissioning, troubleshooting, or performance monitoring.
• Experience identifying and developing recommendations for operational improvements, optimization, or capital projects.
• Experience performing technical reviews, performance assessments, or commissioning-related activities.
• Ability to independently manage projects, analyses, and technical assignments.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate technical findings and recommendations to operational and management audiences.
• Engineer III: All qualifications for Engineer II, plus:
• 8 or more years of relevant professional experience.
• Advanced experience evaluating and optimizing complex building systems, utility systems, or campus infrastructure.
• Demonstrated experience leading significant performance improvement initiatives, commissioning efforts, engineering studies, optimization projects, or performance management programs.
• Experience developing technical standards, operational guidelines, design criteria, or engineering best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to provide technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance.
• Experience influencing operational strategy, project prioritization, and long-term performance improvement initiatives.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex assignments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Engineer-In-Training (EIT), Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Building Commissioning Professional (BCxP), Certified Commissioning Professional (CCP), Certified Measurement & Verification Professional (CMVP), or similar credential.
• Advanced degree in Engineering or related technical field.
• Experience with Existing Building Commissioning (EBCx), retro-commissioning, or ongoing commissioning programs.
• Experience with central utility plants, district energy systems, chilled water systems, steam systems, power generation systems, water systems, or campus utility infrastructure.
• Experience with building automation systems, controls optimization, HVAC sequences of operation, or operational analytics.
• Experience with measurement and verification, energy modeling, performance modeling, benchmarking, or utility system optimization.
• Experience reviewing construction documents, technical standards, design submittals, or engineering specifications.
• Experience supporting sustainability, decarbonization, energy conservation, or water conservation initiatives.
• Experience in higher education, healthcare, research, government, or other large institutional environments.
• Knowledge of ASHRAE standards, commissioning practices, energy codes, utility operations, and resource management best practices.

Driving Required

• Class "C" operator's driver's license.
• Must provide a current three-year driving record.
• Texas driver's license must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident if not currently a Texas resident.

Additional Working Conditions

• May be required to work in confined spaces, manholes, tunnels, elevated work, and extended shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• May be exposed to loud noise, high dust, and allergen levels.
• Participate in on-call program.

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information (at least one from a supervisor).
• Letter of interest.