Staff Engineer - Utility Systems

Job Location: Hershey, PA

Role Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Staff Engineer - Utilities to join our dynamic engineering team. In this role, you will be responsible for the design and management of utility systems, including compressed air, HVAC, steam, water, wastewater, gas, and electricity. You will also handle project estimating and oversee third-party engineering firms while acting as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in utility systems. Your expertise will be crucial in delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget.

Specific Role Focus Area:

• Design and optimize Utility Systems including compressed air, HVAC, steam, chilled water, domestic water, waste water, natural gas, and electricity
• Ensure that all utility systems adhere to local, state, and federal regulations as well as Hershey standards
• Lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary teams on designing utility projects, including planning, bidding, execution, and final start up / delivery
• Conduct assessments of existing utility infrastructure to identify current capacity, utilization rates, areas for improvement, maintenance, or upgrades
• Utilize data analysis and modeling tools to predict system performance and improve reliability
• Incorporate sustainable practices into utility systems to reduce environmental impact, such as renewable energy sources and efficient resource management
• Collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, contractors, plant management, and local communities, to gather input and ensure project alignment
• Stay updated on emerging technologies in utility systems, such as smart grid technologies, IoT applications, and building automation
• Utilize digital automation and automatic data collection software tools to improve performance
• Analyze costs associated with utility projects and systems, focusing on budget management and cost-effective solutions
  
  

Interactions and Partnerships:

• Corporate Engineering functions including project management, process, electrical, civil, and packaging systems
• Other corporate functions including Quality and Regulatory Compliance; Environment, Health and Safety; Procurement; Supply Planning; Production Planning; Manufacturing
• External vendors, contractors and engineering firms * Governmental agencies including local municipalities
• Utility providers for water, sewer, gas, and electric

Travel Expectations: The Staff Engineer - Utility Systems travels as needed to fulfill job duties.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

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  Utility Systems Design:

  
  
  
  
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    Develop and review designs for utility systems, including compressed air, HVAC, steam, water, wastewater, gas, and electricity.

    
    
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    Ensure all designs meet regulatory standards and industry best practices.

    
    
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    Collaborate with internal teams to integrate utility designs into broader project plans.

    
    
  
  
  
  
• Project Estimating:
  
  
  
  • Prepare detailed cost estimates for utility projects, including materials, labor, and equipment.
  • Analyze project scope and specifications to identify potential cost-saving opportunities.
  • Provide timely and accurate estimates to assist in project budgeting and planning.
  
  
  
  
• Management of 3rd Party Engineering Firms:
  
  
  
  • Coordinate and oversee the work of third-party engineering firms, ensuring adherence to project specifications and timelines.
  • Review and approve deliverables from external firms, providing constructive feedback as needed.
  • Foster strong working relationships with external partners to facilitate successful project execution.
  
  
  
  
• Subject Matter Expert:
  
  
  
  • Serve as the go-to expert on utility systems, providing technical guidance and support to internal teams and stakeholders.
  • Stay updated on industry trends, regulations, and technologies related to utility systems.
  • Conduct training sessions and workshops to enhance the knowledge and skills of team members
  
  
  
  

Minimum knowledge, skills and abilities required to successfully perform major duties and responsibilities:

• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Microsoft Project
• SAP system
• Microsoft Teams
• Proficiency in engineering design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D).
• Strong knowledge of utility systems, codes, and regulations, including HVAC, compressed air, steam systems, and waste water treatment systems
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to lead projects and work effectively with cross-functional teams

Experience & Education:

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  Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

  
  
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  Minimum of 8 years of engineering experience with a minimum of 5 years of experience in utility systems design and project management.

  
  
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  Proven experience managing third-party engineering firms.

  
  
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  Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.

  
  
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  PMP certification preferred.