Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Specialist

The U.S. Green Building Council seeks a Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Specialist to serve as an in-house subject matter expert for USGBC and its teams that develop and support the LEED Green Building Rating System.

Position Overview: 

The focus of the expertise will be within the Water Efficiency credit category as related to plumbing and process water systems as well as the LEED system as a certification tool. This position also requires secondary expertise in the Energy & Atmosphere and Indoor Environmental Quality categories as related to mechanical systems.

This individual will draw on detailed engineering knowledge and direct professional experience to help resolve issues in, and optimize technical content of, the LEED rating system and supporting tools. Candidates must be well-versed in both standard practices and high-performance, market-leading industry practices in the commercial buildings sector and has experience taking projects through the LEED certification process.

The 5 essential characteristics needed are:

• An in-depth knowledge of LEED from a project team member or certification review standpoint
• Broad technical knowledge of building systems and standards relevant to designing, installation, and testing of plumbing and process water systems, including fixtures/fittings, cooling towers, and non-potable water systems
• Basic knowledge of building systems, assemblies, materials, and standards relevant to designing, installation, and testing of mechanical/HVAC systems
• Basic business knowledge of market organizations, institutions, relationships, and practices, and the opportunities and constraints arising therein
• Problem-solving skills, including investigation, analysis, research, coordination, and final assessment

Responsibilities:

• Serve as primary internal subject matter expert on engineering of plumbing and process water systems for USGBC staff that deal with technical LEED issues
• Serve as secondary subject matter expert on mechanical systems in commercial buildings for USGBC staff that deal with technical LEED issues
• Oversee development of technical supporting documents including reference guides, technical guidance documents and project submittal requirements
• Assist in conceiving and developing improvements to LEED rating system and supporting tools based on technical knowledge, industry experience, or user feedback, including credit development addenda, LEED Interpretations and alternative compliance paths
• Provide technical support for the testing of credits in the LEED Pilot Credit Library
• Help resolve advanced technical issues involving all LEED support tools and resources
• Assist in the LEED Interpretation process
• Support technical issue resolution within LEED volunteer committees
• Maintain level of expertise by staying abreast of new and developing industry issues and trends
• Resolve advanced technical customer service inquiries
• Provide review support for LEED pilot projects
• Aid in the development of new LEED tools and programs
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Minimum Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree, or equivalent, in a relevant engineering field is required
• Minimum 4 years direct engineering field experience specializing in plumbing and process water system design, installation oversight and/or testing
• Relevant experience in a variety of high-performance building projects, especially LEED projects, either as a member of a LEED project team or as a LEED certification reviewer
• LEED Accredited Professional Status
• Suitable candidates include Mechanical Engineers, Plumbing Designers, or professionals of similar fields
• Detailed technical understanding of and experience achieving compliance with common plumbing and mechanical engineering building codes and standards, e.g., IMC, IPC/UPC
• Knowledge of various government policies and programs related to buildings, e.g. EPAct, EPA Water Sense
• Excellent analytical thinking and problem-solving skills as well as a strong understanding of the level of research and breadth of perspective needed to develop an acceptable solution to technical issues
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work well both independently and on teams

Preferred Additional Skills and Qualifications:

• Project management experience
• Relevant experience in a variety of LEED projects, including large complex buildings and small buildings; projects in urban, suburban, and rural settings; owner/occupied and multi-tenant buildings; government, corporate, and individual owners, etc.
• Detailed experience in all LEED project phases, from early visioning to completion of LEED certification
• Currently licensed Professional Engineer or EIT in good standing
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in MS Office suite
• Passion for and commitment to USGBC mission
• Supervisory experience

Compensation: Compensation includes an excellent benefits package, including 100% employer-paid premiums on healthcare and employer-matching 401(k) program.

To Apply: 

Please submit resume and letter of interest, with salary requirements and title of position applying for, via email or fax, attn: Human Resources. Please indicate where you saw the posting for this opportunity. No phone calls please.