ZRG has been engaged to recruit an Assistant Vice President, Engineering and Energy for Columbia University

Columbia University’s location in Upper Manhattan places it at the intersection of academic excellence and urban vitality. Situated near renowned medical centers, research institutions, cultural landmarks, and policy organizations, the University benefits from deep connections across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. This proximity enhances opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, experiential learning, and meaningful engagement with communities locally and globally.

POSITION:

Reporting to the Vice President for Operations, the Assistant Vice President of Engineering and Energy is responsible for visionary and strategic energy services and programs for Columbia University. This position will direct, strategize, and implement energy management and engineering services for the campus buildings and Central Energy Plants totaling 9 million square feet. This includes master planning, conservation efforts, managing renewable energy portfolios, strategic procurement of natural gas and electricity, central plant oversight, State of Good Repair (SOGR) program management, and other engineering and energy-related strategic initiatives.

QUALIFICATIONS:

•Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field required. Master’s degree in Engineering, MBA or other advanced degree preferred.

•Ten years of experience in utility infrastructure, university utility and facilities operations preferred; ten years of experience in related field.

•Demonstrated experience managing the operation and maintenance of central utility plants preferred.

•Minimum of seven years of environmental / sustainability experience including implementing environmental or sustainability programs, resource management, environmental initiatives, or equivalent experience.

•Demonstrated experience with energy, water, and waste conservation in buildings.

•Skilled in budget preparation, financial management, and analysis.

•A flexible, problem-solving approach to leadership.

•Demonstrated effective leadership skills within a complex, multilayered organization.

•Ability to think strategically and drive priority initiatives through the organization.

•Strategic planning skills. Ability to make administrative / procedural decisions and judgments required; Skills in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.

•Ability to develop, plan, and implement short- and long-range goals.

•Sensitivity and diplomacy to balance competing campus interests.

•Computer literacy in Windows and Microsoft Office environments.

•Strong communication and presentation skills.

•Demonstrated ability to work with senior leadership.

•Demonstrated management skills with ability to relate to a diverse and complex operation and supervision of exempt and non-exempt staff.

•Utilization of principles of management to ensure responsibilities are met effectively and efficiently. This includes planning, controlling, leading, and organizing.

•Demonstrated skills in using sound analytic methods and ability to work with complex analytic issues.

•Ability to effectively interact with departmental staff, as well as campus and university-wide administrators.

•Excellent customer service skills and ability to effectively communicate within and outside of the department.

•Skill to effectively communicate orally, in writing, and electronically.

•Ability to maintain accuracy and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment of changing priorities.

•Respond promptly by phone or in person as appropriate to emergency situations and therefore 24/7 availability.

•Valid driver's license and successful completion of the University's Motor Vehicle Records background check process.