Mechanical Engineer III-IV

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Are you looking to make a real difference in the long-term success of Iowa State University while working with a dynamic and team-oriented department? Impact campus utilities and the campus population, in a collaborative and challenging environment?

Iowa State Universitys Facilities Planning and Management (FPM) Utilities Department is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to provide engineering and operations support for the Universitys energy production and distribution systems including high pressure steam, condensate, and chilled water. Other engineering aspects may include equipment such as pumps, heat exchangers, and chillers, with cross-training opportunities associated with domestic water, sanitary sewer, storm water management, and natural gas systems.

Primary duties will include analyzing, troubleshooting, and making improvements to utility systems and equipment; planning and managing utility construction projects; and coordinating contractors and design consultants in pursuit of seamless and highly efficient energy delivery to the Iowa State campus. The position will also be responsible for documenting distribution systems and design standards while providing technical support to ISU FPM and Utility Services

maintenance and distribution staff.

Additional duties include creating steam and chilled water flow models and conducting studies to identify capacities and improvements; updating steam and chilled water distribution system master plans and identifying capital funding required to improve campus utilities; and providing engineering technical expertise for distribution system shutdown and start-up operations.

The successful candidate will possess strong communication skills; strong organizational and analytical skills; ability to organize and coordinate work within and between projects; and have the ability and willingness to learn and understand complex utility systems and equipment.

This is a unique opportunity to ultimately contribute to the personal and academic success of students, support critical University research, and represent Iowa State University in a mechanical engineering leadership role.

Candidates may be hired as a Mechanical Engineer III or a Mechanical Engineer IV.

Level Guidelines for Engineer III (PS811 salary grade) - Bachelors degree and 5 years of related experience
Senior-level position possessing high-level professional and/or technical skills working independently under minimal supervision to support ISUs mission and department or work unit goals
Applies senior-level professional knowledge and expertise to work requiring greater latitude
Solves moderately complex problems and regularly exercises judgment to determine appropriate action
Regularly exercises judgment to resolve problems and determine appropriate action on a broad set of issue and problems. May provide recommendations regarding problems/issues outside the bounds of defined procedures and practices
Responds to complicated inquiries, provides training, and provides direction to lower-level staff
May provide supervision for one to two other staff (i.e., leads a small work team)
May lead projects for which well-defined practices and procedures may not exist
Provides guidance to students

Level Guidelines for Engineer IV (PS812 salary grade) - Bachelor's degree and 8 years of related experience. State of Iowa Professional Engineering license is preferred.
Expert-level position possessing advanced professional and/or technical skills working under limited or no supervision
Applies high-level professional knowledge and expertise to focus on ISUs mission and meeting division, department or work unit goals
Solves complex issues using highly developed problem resolution skills
Regularly provides recommendations regarding problems/issues outside the bounds of defined procedures and practices
Utilizes high-level professional knowledge and expertise to provide guidance, recommendations, and set standards related to strategy, policy, and mission
Leads projects of moderate to high scope and complexity with broad impact
May provide supervision to other department staff (i.e., leads a small work team)

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.

Why Iowa State University and Utility Services?

Team-Oriented, Collaborative Environment
At ISUs FPM Utilities Services, we value teamwork and collaboration. Our staff works closely together to provide reliable campus utility operations and engineering expertise. You will be part of a dedicated team of professionals, collaborating to maintain utility operations and improve the campus utility distribution system.

Engaging and Varied Work
Each day brings new opportunities and challenges while supporting campus projects, finding ways to improve the utility system, and tackling problems as they arise. From project planning and system modeling to responding to utility outages, you will engage in meaningful work that ultimately helps student success and campus faculty and staff in their professions.

Excellent Work-Life Balance and Benefits
We understand the importance of maintaining balance in life. Iowa State University is committed to creating a workplace where your professional responsibilities are balanced with your personal needs. The university offers a flexible, supportive environment, including access to a fantastic benefits package which includes wellness programs and generous vacation time, allowing you to recharge and maintain your well-being while helping others.

What to know about Ames: Ames offers a vibrant blend of cultural, athletic, and social events, an affordable cost of living, and excellent schools. With Des Moines just 30 minutes away, youll have easy access to everything a larger city has to offer without sacrificing the charm and convenience of a smaller town.

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Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on Apply and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Please Note: To receive full consideration, applications should be received by May 8, 2025.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program

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