We are seeking a visionary and technically accomplished Executive Director – HVAC and Refrigeration Engineering to lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of HVAC and refrigeration systems across our enterprise. This role will be responsible for setting the strategic direction of engineering programs, ensuring operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and sustainability across complex mechanical systems in critical industries such as food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, cold chain logistics, data centers, and healthcare.
The ideal candidate is both a strategic leader and an engineering authority with deep knowledge of HVACR design, thermodynamics, system automation, and energy optimization.
Set the vision and long-term roadmap for HVAC and refrigeration engineering across all company locations.
Align engineering strategy with corporate objectives including growth, energy reduction, and ESG commitments.
Serve as the executive point of contact for all major HVACR-related capital investments, technology adoption, and risk mitigation plans.
Provide technical leadership for the design, operation, and modernization of large-scale HVAC and refrigeration systems (e.g., ammonia, CO₂, glycol, Freon, cascade systems).
Oversee all phases of project delivery including feasibility, conceptual design, detailed engineering, construction, commissioning, and turnover.
Lead the evaluation and selection of key equipment including chillers, compressors, AHUs, evaporators, condensers, and controls platforms.
Drive efficiency, reliability, and uptime of HVACR infrastructure through best-in-class engineering practices, preventive maintenance strategies, and smart automation.
Oversee reliability engineering programs including vibration analysis, predictive diagnostics, and root cause failure analysis (RCFA).
Champion the implementation of advanced building management systems (BMS), energy dashboards, and IoT-based control technologies.
Ensure strict adherence to federal, state, and local codes and standards including ASHRAE, IIAR, OSHA, EPA, NFPA, and GMP (if applicable).
Establish and monitor SOPs for handling hazardous refrigerants (e.g., ammonia) and maintain compliance with refrigerant management protocols.
Support internal and external audits, inspections, and certifications related to environmental, health, and safety (EHS) requirements.
Direct HVACR-related capital project portfolios and lifecycle management programs.
Prepare and manage annual budgets for engineering operations, utilities optimization, and facility upgrades.
Negotiate major contracts with vendors, consultants, and equipment suppliers.
Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing, multidisciplinary team of mechanical engineers, refrigeration specialists, controls engineers, and project managers.
Promote a culture of innovation, safety, collaboration, and continuous learning.
Provide technical training and professional development to elevate in-house engineering capabilities.
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Refrigeration Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree or MBA is a strong plus).
Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
Relevant certifications such as CEM, LEED AP, Certified Refrigeration Professional (CRP), or IIAR certification are advantageous.
Experience:
Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in HVAC and refrigeration engineering, with at least 7 years in a senior or executive leadership role.
Proven track record managing complex systems in industries such as food & beverage, cold storage, biopharma, or large-scale commercial facilities.
Technical Expertise:
Expertise in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, psychrometrics, and refrigeration cycle analysis.
Deep knowledge of ammonia and CO₂ refrigeration systems, compressor technologies, VFDs, controls integration, and energy recovery solutions.
Familiarity with utility infrastructure (steam, chilled water, compressed air, power distribution) is highly desirable.
Executive-level leadership with strong strategic and operational focus
Advanced engineering problem-solving and decision-making skills
Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities
Strong financial and project management acumen
High commitment to safety, compliance, and innovation