Director – Plant Utilities (Boilers, Compressors, Chillers)

The Director – Plant Utilities is a senior-level engineering and operations leader responsible for the strategic direction, performance, and reliability of all critical plant utility systems, including boilers, chillers, air compressors, cooling towers, and associated distribution systems. This role ensures all utility systems are operating efficiently, safely, and in compliance with applicable standards and regulations. The Director will lead a team of utility engineers, technicians, and external contractors to support uninterrupted plant operations and drive continuous improvement in energy efficiency, system reliability, and environmental performance.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategic Oversight

• • Lead all plant utility operations, including steam generation, compressed air systems, HVAC chillers, heat exchangers, and cooling systems.

  • Define long-term strategy for utilities infrastructure, focusing on reliability, energy efficiency, sustainability, and regulatory compliance.

  • Oversee daily operation and emergency response protocols for utility systems to ensure uninterrupted service to critical production and facility operations.

  • Lead and develop a high-performing team of utility engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel.

System Operations & Optimization

• • Manage and monitor the operation of boiler systems (high/low pressure), air compressors (screw and centrifugal), and HVAC chillers (absorption, centrifugal, or screw type).

  • Develop and implement predictive, preventive, and corrective maintenance strategies to maximize equipment lifespan and minimize downtime.

  • Ensure optimal operation of utility distribution systems: steam piping, compressed air headers, chilled water loops, and condensate recovery.

  • Continuously assess performance KPIs such as system uptime, energy usage, heat rate, and OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).

Compliance & Safety

• • Ensure all utility systems meet regulatory, safety, and environmental standards, including OSHA, EPA, ASME, NFPA, and local codes.

  • Maintain documentation and readiness for internal and external audits and inspections.

  • Lead risk assessments, HAZOPs, and safety reviews for new systems or changes to existing infrastructure.

  • Promote a culture of safety and compliance throughout utility operations.

Energy Management & Sustainability

• • Identify and implement opportunities for energy conservation, utility optimization, and carbon footprint reduction.

  • Support or lead initiatives related to waste heat recovery, load balancing, and fuel conversion (e.g., from diesel to natural gas or renewable).

  • Work with energy procurement and sustainability teams to support broader environmental and cost-reduction goals.

Project Management & Capital Planning

• • Manage utility-related capital projects, including upgrades, expansions, or new system installations.

  • Oversee design review, vendor selection, installation, commissioning, and validation of utility equipment.

  • Prepare and manage annual operating and capital budgets for plant utilities.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• • Coordinate closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, and EHS teams to align utility system capabilities with operational demands.

  • Serve as a key stakeholder in facility master planning, site expansions, and energy infrastructure development.

Focus Areas:

• • Boiler Plant Operations: Steam generation, condensate recovery, feedwater systems, deaerators, and emissions control.

  • Compressed Air Systems: Supply reliability, pressure regulation, air quality (dryers, filters), leak reduction, and system sizing.

  • Chilled Water Systems: Chiller performance, cooling towers, pumping systems, glycol systems, and temperature control.

  • Control & Monitoring Systems: Familiarity with SCADA, BMS, EMS, and automation platforms for utilities management.

  • Reliability & Asset Management: Lifecycle planning and CMMS utilization for tracking performance and maintenance.

Qualifications:

• • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Facilities Engineering (Master’s degree preferred).

  • 10+ years of experience in plant utilities management or facility engineering, including at least 5 years in a leadership capacity.

  • Deep technical knowledge of boilers, chillers, compressors, and utility distribution systems.

  • Strong understanding of OSHA, ASME, NFPA, and EPA compliance as it relates to utilities.

  • Experience with CMMS and energy monitoring systems.

  • Certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), or Boiler Operator’s License are a plus.

  • Proven leadership, budgeting, and cross-functional communication skills.