What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mechanical Engineer III position at Duke Clinical Research Institute?
Occupational Summary
The Mechanical Engineer III provides leadership in the planning, design, and continuous improvement of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and plumbing systems to support reliable, efficient, and sustainable University operations. This role performs engineering analysis to guide capital, renewal, and maintenance strategies, develops and maintains mechanical design standards, and reviews utility and building system designs to ensure alignment with campus goals and operational best practices.
Work Performed
- Lead and participate in the design, planning, evaluation, construction, operation, and maintenance of University mechanical systems including HVAC, hydronics, refrigeration, plumbing, fire protection, compressed air, and vacuum systems to ensure reliable, efficient, and cost-effective performance across campus facilities.
- Review and evaluate engineering plans, specifications, and equipment selections for both utility and building projects; perform field inspections during and after installation to verify compliance with University standards prior to acceptance.
- Conduct engineering analyses to support planning, system optimization, and operational efficiency; contribute to the development and maintenance of mechanical design standards and provide design review for new construction and renovation projects.
- Support quality assurance, commissioning, and optimization of HVAC and mechanical systems by performing building audits, developing system improvement programs, and identifying new energy efficiency measures.
- Advise and troubleshoot complex maintenance and operational issues involving fluid flow, psychrometrics, control systems, laboratory pressurization, and other specialized mechanical functions.
- Provide strategic leadership and oversight of mechanical systems for large-scale capital, maintenance, and renovation projects.
- Develop and implement innovative solutions to resolve complex mechanical challenges, contributing to the continuous improvement of design standards and long-term campus infrastructure strategies.
- Prepare comprehensive analyses and executive-level reports summarizing system performance, project progress, risks, and strategic recommendations for University leadership.
- Mentor and guide junior engineering and facilities staff, fostering technical growth, project management capability, and alignment with University objectives.
- Perform other senior-level duties as assigned to support the overall strategy, sustainability, and operational excellence of the University's facilities management program.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- HVAC system design including in a lab and/or research environment.
- Building commissioning and audit performance.
- Excellent understanding of HVAC and plumbing mechanical equipment operation.
- Ability to assist with field inspection and control, including start-up and commissioning of HVAC equipment.
- Strong background in designing, troubleshooting, and optimizing functions of systems serving laboratories, cleanrooms, and critical spaces.
- Knowledge of the NC Building, Mechanical and Energy Codes, Life Safety Code and ASHRAE Standards.
- Ability to create and maintain positive customer and stakeholder relationships.
- Microsoft Office skills including Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- CAD drafting skills utilizing AutoCAD.
- Experience in the controls and instrumentation for building and central plant systems.
Minimum Qualifications
Education/Training
Work generally requires a bachelor's degree in a mechanical engineering field.
Experience
Work requires a minimum of eight years' experience in design, planning, evaluation and project management related to new construction and renovation of building and utility systems. Research and Lab building experience preferred OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
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Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.
Essential Physical Job Functions:
Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.
Duke is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual’s age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Read more about Duke’s commitment to affirmative action and nondiscrimination at hr.duke.edu/eeo.