We are seeking a strategic and technically experienced Director – Climate Control and Process Air Systems to lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of environmental control systems across manufacturing and mission-critical facilities. This role focuses on maintaining optimal conditions for production, cleanroom integrity, equipment performance, and occupant comfort by managing temperature, humidity, filtration, and air quality to precise specifications.
The ideal candidate will bring expertise in HVAC, process air engineering, and compliance with industry-specific environmental standards in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, food and beverage, aerospace, or advanced manufacturing.
Define the long-term strategy and roadmap for climate control and process air infrastructure across all facilities.
Lead the design, specification, and optimization of HVAC and process air systems to meet environmental, regulatory, and operational requirements.
Establish performance benchmarks for temperature control, humidity regulation, filtration levels, and system uptime.
Oversee the engineering of precision air systems including dehumidifiers, humidifiers, HEPA filtration, air handling units (AHUs), process blowers, desiccant dryers, and clean/dry air solutions.
Review and approve HVAC and process air system schematics, load calculations, airflow models, duct design, and control system integration.
Ensure seamless coordination between mechanical, electrical, and control system teams.
Lead capital projects for new builds, retrofits, and system upgrades involving process air or climate control.
Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and resource allocations.
Ensure minimal disruption to production while executing major HVAC/process air changes.
Ensure all systems meet applicable industry and safety standards (e.g., ASHRAE, ISO 8573, ISO 14644, OSHA, cGMP, FDA).
Lead validation efforts for critical environmental systems, including airflow balancing, filter integrity testing, and environmental monitoring systems (EMS).
Participate in audits and regulatory inspections, providing documentation and engineering support.
Implement and oversee building management systems (BMS) and environmental monitoring systems (EMS) for real-time performance tracking.
Drive continuous improvement in energy efficiency, air quality, uptime, and maintainability.
Conduct root cause analysis and lead troubleshooting for climate control issues affecting production or compliance.
Manage a team of HVAC engineers, technicians, controls specialists, and project managers.
Mentor junior staff and foster a high-performance engineering culture.
Promote cross-functional collaboration with quality, production, maintenance, and safety teams.
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or related discipline (Master’s preferred).
Professional Engineer (PE) license or HVAC-related certifications (e.g., ASHRAE, LEED AP) preferred.
Experience:
10+ years of experience in HVAC, process air, or environmental system engineering.
At least 5 years in a leadership role overseeing design and implementation of critical climate control systems.
Industry experience in cleanroom-based manufacturing, life sciences, food/beverage, aerospace, or high-tech industries is highly desirable.
Technical Skills:
Expert knowledge of HVAC design principles, psychrometrics, air quality standards, filtration, and energy recovery systems.
Familiarity with standards such as ASHRAE 62.1/90.1, ISO 8573 (compressed air quality), ISO 14644, IEST, and GMP guidelines.
Proficiency in airflow simulation tools, duct sizing software, and CAD (AutoCAD, Revit, SolidWorks) and control system integration (BMS/EMS/SCADA).
Strong strategic planning and technical leadership abilities
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Proficiency in project and budget management
Dedication to safety, compliance, and sustainability
Innovative mindset with a focus on reliability and efficiency
Hybrid office and facility-based role, with regular visits to cleanrooms, production areas, utility spaces, and construction sites.
Involves wearing PPE and working in high-hygiene or high-risk environments when necessary.
Occasional travel to support multi-site or global projects.