Energy & Controls Specialist

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

Champaign, IL

Pay: $60,000-$70,000/yr

Shift: Full time

**About GHR Engineers & Associates, Inc.**

GHR Engineers & Associates, Inc. is a mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection (MEP) consulting firm. Since 1949, we have built our reputation through quality work, integrity, and service.

We design the systems that make buildings functional, sustainable, and safe, working across healthcare, K–12, commercial, municipal, and specialty building types.

We’re a close-knit team of about 20 people. We treat our employees like people with lives and commitments outside the office, and our retention speaks to that. Our team includes people who have been with us from one to thirty years.

We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities. We benefit from the many perspectives our people bring, and we’re committed to continuing to grow.

**About the Role**

We are seeking an Energy & Controls Specialist to join our MEP team. In this role you’ll help buildings perform as designed. You’ll model building energy use, design temperature control systems, and commission HVAC systems to confirm they work in the field.

This role is a good fit for someone with hands-on experience in building automation, HVAC service, testing and balancing, or energy analysis who wants to move into design and consulting. An engineering degree is not required, but is certainly worth considering. Practical knowledge of how buildings and their systems actually operate is also viewed as a valuable skill.

We’re not a large corporation. You’ll be a meaningful contributor to real projects from the start, not just another hire.

**Responsibilities**

*Energy Modeling*

• Building whole-building energy models to compare design options and support system selection
• Preparing energy code compliance documentation (IECC / ASHRAE 90.1, COMcheck)
• Supporting utility incentive applications and sustainability goals

*Temperature Control Design*

• Writing sequences of operation for HVAC systems
• Developing control diagrams, points lists, and building automation system (BAS) specifications
• Reviewing controls shop drawings and submittals and answering RFIs

*Commissioning*

• Developing commissioning plans, pre-functional checklists, and functional performance tests
• Conducting on-site testing of HVAC and control systems and tracking issues to resolution
• Reviewing BAS trend data and supporting retro-commissioning of existing buildings

*General*

• Coordinating with our mechanical and electrical designers
• Visiting sites for field verification, testing, and commissioning; frequency varies with project phase
• Staying current with relevant codes and standards, including ASHRAE 90.1, Guideline 36, IECC, and IMC

**Qualifications**

• Experience in one or more of the following: energy modeling, building automation and controls, HVAC service or startup, testing and balancing, or commissioning
• Working knowledge of HVAC systems and how they’re controlled
• Degree or certificate in HVAC, building automation, energy management, engineering technology, or a related field, or equivalent work experience
• Comfortable learning new software
• Takes ownership of their work and stays on top of their own workload
• A clear, collaborative communicator, comfortable working with contractors and building owners in the field
• Genuine interest in building a long-term career in building performance

**Helpful but Not Required**

• Experience with energy modeling software such as eQUEST, TRACE 3D Plus, EnergyPlus, or IES VE
• Familiarity with BAS platforms such as Johnson Controls Metasys, Siemens, Trane Tracer, or Niagara-based systems
• Commissioning or energy credentials such as CCP, CxA, BEMP, CEM, or LEED AP
• Engineering degree or EIT certification
• Familiarity with Revit or AutoCAD

**Compensation & Benefits**

• Salary: $60,000–$70,000, commensurate with experience
• Year-end bonus: Discretionary, reflecting company performance and individual factors including merit, seniority, and expertise
• Hybrid work schedule, negotiable
• Flexible hours
• Health, dental, & vision insurance
• FSA: Pre-tax dollars for medical & dependent care
• 401(k) with employer match
• PTO: Vacation time that grows with tenure, paid holidays, parental leave
• Professional development: Employees who choose to pursue certifications are reimbursed for exam fees and renewals

**Life in Champaign-Urbana**

Not local? Champaign-Urbana is a small city with big-city amenities and culture, and salaries go a lot further here than they would in a larger market.

• Named one of Livability’s 2024 Best Places to Live in the U.S.
• 2 hours to Chicago & St. Louis but 29% lower cost of living than Chicago
• Nightlife, music, dining, Big Ten sports
• Parks & outdoor spaces, museums, galleries, & performing arts
• Family-friendly activities and attractions

**Application Process**

Apply through this posting with:

• Your resume
• At least two professional references
• A short note about yourself and why this role interests you

**Hiring Pro