The Director – Boiler and Utilities Engineering is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the design, operation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of boiler systems and utility infrastructure across one or more manufacturing or industrial facilities. The role ensures high standards of safety, efficiency, compliance, and reliability of critical systems including steam boilers, HVAC, chilled water, compressed air, clean utilities (WFI, clean steam, process gases), and power distribution. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise with strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Lead and develop the Boiler & Utilities Engineering team, including engineers, technicians, and contractors.
Define short- and long-term strategies for utility systems to meet operational, environmental, and sustainability goals.
Manage capital projects related to utility systems – from concept through design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and handover.
Collaborate with cross-functional departments (production, EHS, quality, maintenance) to align utility operations with business needs.
Provide expert guidance on the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of boilers, chillers, cooling towers, HVAC, compressed air, and clean utility systems.
Ensure optimal system performance, energy efficiency, and availability for mission-critical operations.
Develop and implement utility system redundancies, predictive maintenance strategies, and asset life-cycle plans.
Oversee calibration and performance testing of critical systems, including energy audits and performance validation.
Ensure all boiler and utility operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations (e.g., OSHA, ASME, EPA, NFPA, FDA).
Maintain documentation and readiness for regulatory inspections and third-party audits.
Lead risk assessments and implement corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) for utility-related deviations or failures.
Promote a culture of safety, quality, and operational excellence across the engineering and utilities team.
Develop and manage departmental budgets, operating costs, and capital expenditures.
Drive cost savings and energy optimization initiatives without compromising reliability or compliance.
Manage supplier and contractor relationships related to utility systems, including service level agreements (SLAs).
Boiler Plant Management: Design, operation, maintenance, and safety of high/low-pressure steam boilers and auxiliary systems.
Clean & Critical Utilities: Oversight of WFI (Water for Injection), clean steam, purified water, nitrogen, and compressed air systems, especially in regulated environments.
Sustainability & Energy Efficiency: Implementation of energy conservation measures, waste heat recovery, and green energy integration.
Automation & Control Systems: Working knowledge of SCADA, BMS, and utility monitoring/control systems.
Compliance & Quality Systems: Deep understanding of GMP, FDA, ASME, and ISO standards for utility system compliance.
People Development: Coaching and mentoring technical staff, promoting continuous improvement and operational training.
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
12+ years of experience in utilities or facility engineering, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
Proven track record in boiler operations, clean utility systems, and facility infrastructure within manufacturing or pharmaceutical environments.
Strong understanding of energy management principles and regulatory compliance.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Professional Engineer (PE) license, ASME certification, or boiler operator license is a strong plus.
Experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or TPM methodologies is an advantage.