Who we are

Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is the first technological research university in the United States. We bring creativity, science, and technology together to address society's greatest challenges. We cultivate exceptional problem-solvers by immersing them in a culture of rigorous inquiry, disciplined practice, and hands-on application. Our strategic plan, RPI Forward, charts a pioneering course for the next era of RPI. Explore the RPI Forward plan. ↗︎

Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, RPI is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world. 

With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, Rensselaer offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth. 

Job Summary

The Facilities Engineer supports the operation, maintenance, and renewal of campus infrastructure at a leading research university. The Facilities Engineer ensures the reliability, safety, and efficiency of building systems that serve academic, residential, and research facilities. The Facilities Engineer will coordinate with campus operations staff, faculty, consultants, and contractors to maintain and improve systems such as electrical distribution, HVAC, plumbing, and life safety.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field
• At least 7 years of experience in facilities engineering, building systems, or campus utilities
• Familiarity with electrical distribution systems (e.g., 13.8kV, 480V/208V, switchgear, generators, UPS, lighting controls) or the ability to quickly develop electrical proficiency in a facilities setting

Relevant combinations of education, training and experience may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer-in-Training (EIT).
• Experience in higher education, healthcare, or research-intensive facilities.
• Knowledge of campus utility distribution systems and/or chilled water/steam plants.
• Familiarity with sustainability certifications (e.g., LEED) and energy efficiency programs.
• Experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS). 

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Knowledge of HVAC systems, central energy plants, and building automation.
• Ability to work collaboratively across trades and with academic/research stakeholders.
• Ability to read and understand construction documents, specifications, contracts
• Must be familiar with standard construction specifications and construction means and methods required to accomplish a general project, i.e., equipment, tools, trade needs, etc.
• Requires in-depth knowledge of electrical building systems
• Ability to operate a PC using standard office software
• Must be flexible in work style; able to work effectively with project representatives and workers from all fields
• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively
• Ability to build a team in a group of diverse disciplines; must function as part of a team and collaborate effectively with others
  
  

Representative Job Duties

• Provide technical support for campus utilities and building systems, including electrical distribution (medium and low voltage), HVAC systems, central plant equipment, plumbing, controls, and fire protection. 
• Manage small- to mid-size capital projects related to infrastructure renewal, energy upgrades, and system replacements — from concept through closeout. 
• Act as owner’s representative for capital renewal, deferred maintenance, and energy projects, coordinating with design teams, contractors, and internal stakeholders. - 
• Review and interpret design drawings, specifications, submittals, and project documentation to ensure compliance with university standards and applicable codes (NEC, NFPA, ASHRAE, local/state codes). 
• Prepare scopes of work, budgets, and schedules for infrastructure projects; monitor project progress and resolve field issues as needed. Administer contracts for consultants, contractors, and service providers: including procurement, invoice review, change order evaluation, and performance monitoring 
• Troubleshoot facilities issues and support root-cause analysis in collaboration with trades personnel, vendors, and engineering consultants. 
• Support research, residential, and instructional buildings with unique and complex infrastructure needs. Contribute to campus initiatives in sustainability, energy efficiency, and resiliency through system upgrades and performance improvements. 
• Maintain and update system documentation, as-builts, O&M manuals, and asset data.
• Participate in utility master planning and long-term infrastructure strategy development.
• Effectively communicate with faculty, staff, and students to minimize operational disruptions during maintenance or construction activities. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Shift

Business Hours: Monday - Friday

Travel

Driving

Incidental driving possible 

Starting Salary/Rate

Expected hiring range: $100,000 – $115,000

Pay transparency disclosure: The selected candidate’s salary will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the final candidate’s qualifications, experience, education and other job-related credentials. This hiring range is provided as Rensselaer’s good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.

Application instructions

Follow the on-screen prompts to create a brief online profile. Please be ready to upload your resume and cover letter.

If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Total Compensation and Benefits Information

Rensselaer’s Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).