Job Details

Western Carolina University continues to rank high on Forbes Best Employers lists each year. Including:
2024 - Ranking in the top 8.5% on Forbes Americas Best Midsize Employers list, WCU was ranked 34 out of the top 400 employers across all industries.
2023 - Ranked in the top 20% on Forbes Americas Best Midsize Employers list, WCU was ranked 97 out of the top 500 employers across all industries.
2022 - Ranked 14th in the top 100 employers in North Carolina in Forbes Americas Best Employers by State list.
Western Carolina University is the UNC systems westernmost campus and has been consistently ranked as one of the top 15 public regional institutions in the South.
Employees of WCU are provided a comprehensive benefits package as well as other resources, policies and programs to ensure a happy and healthy work/life balance. Benefit eligible employees have access to dental, vision and health insurance plans - eligibility begins on the first of the month following date of hire. Retirement plan contributions begin on the eligibility date following election and include employer contributions for either a defined contribution or a defined benefit plan. Optional disability plans are also available.
Eligible employees have access to tuition waivers for up to three courses per academic year; employee may enroll at any of the constituent UNC System campuses. Also offered are free group exercise classes multiple times per week, a discounted membership to the campus recreation center, free vaccine and booster shots offered on campus, pretax flexible spending accounts, 12 paid holidays and 24 hours of paid community service leave each year. Leave earning employees (staff and 12-month faculty) who work at least half of the working days of their first month of employment will begin accruing vacation and sick leave immediately. Paid parental leave after 12 months of continuous service.
WCU offers an abundance of training and development programs, certifications, workshops and conferences - many of which are offered free of charge.

The primary location of this position is on-site at WCUs Cullowhee, NC campus.

This role leads the universitys efforts to optimize building performance, focusing on the operation and efficiency of Building Automation Systems (BAS) and Energy Management Systems (EMS). It is responsible for the daily management, optimization, and integration of BAS/EMS platforms across campus, ensuring HVAC systems operate efficiently and meet energy goals. The role involves reviewing mechanical system plans and specifications to verify compatibility with BAS standards and long-term energy performance objectives. It also provides hands-on troubleshooting and repair support for EMS-related devices, along with training and guidance for HVAC technicians on controls, energy efficiency practices, and system optimization.

This position oversees BAS-related projects performed by external contractors, ensuring alignment with campus standards, verifying system integration, and coordinating with facilities staff to ensure successful implementation and long-term maintainability. Additionally, this position identifies and supports the implementation of Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs), including opportunities within BAS and other building systems such as HVAC, lighting, and controls.

It collaborates with the Department of Energy and Utilities to support initiatives that enhance building system efficiency and promote sustainable campus operations through the use of smart controls and data-driven strategies.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required for this Position:
The successful candidate will possess extensive knowledge of Building Automation Systems (BAS) and Energy Management Systems (EMS), with the ability to oversee and optimize campus-wide platforms. A comprehensive understanding of HVAC systems, mechanical controls, and energy efficiency principles is essential, as is the ability to analyze building performance data, implement conservation strategies, and support long-term system optimization. The role requires strong project coordination skills to manage BAS-related contractor work, review mechanical and construction plans, and ensure alignment with campus standards for controls and sustainability. Hands-on technical skills are necessary for troubleshooting and maintaining BAS/EMS components, including sensors, actuators, and network devices. The ideal candidate will be comfortable supporting strategic planning efforts, contributing to campus sustainability initiatives, and collaborating with facilities leadership and other stakeholders. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for providing practical training and support to HVAC technicians, as well as promoting continuous improvement in building performance.

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States of America without the need for employer sponsorship or any other immigration-related assistance.

An associate degree in mechanical engineering technology, electrical engineering technology, HVAC systems, building automation, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A minimum of three years of relevant experience in building automation systems (BAS), HVAC controls, or mechanical systems troubleshooting in a commercial, institutional, or campus setting is required.

A bachelors degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, building science, or a related field is preferred. Strong familiarity with communication protocols such as BACnet and Modbus, along with experience configuring, programming, and managing Building Automation Systems (e.g., Trane, Johnson Controls, Automated Logic, Schneider Electric, Tridium), is highly desirable. Experience supervising BAS technicians, coordinating with trades and vendors, and overseeing controls work during new construction or renovation projects is a plus. Familiarity with commissioning processes and advanced HVAC troubleshooting that extends beyond controls is also preferred. Certifications such as Tridium Niagara, Siemens, Johnson Controls, or other manufacturer-specific BAS credentials are advantageous.

Applicants must apply online in order to be considered. Please include a cover letter, resume, and a list of at least three professional references (with complete contact information).

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until a candidate has been selected.

For questions or additional information, please contact Reid Conway at tconway@email.wcu.edu or 828-227-2105.

PLEASE COMPLETE ALL AREAS OF THE APPLICATION. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS MAY NOT BE GIVEN CONSIDERATION IN THE REVIEW PROCESS.