The Associate Director, Engineering Central Utilities is a senior leadership role within the Global Workplace and Enterprise Services team at a leading biopharmaceutical company. This position focuses on overseeing the strategic direction and performance of critical utility systems such as chilled water, cooling towers, plant air, and related infrastructure to ensure safe, compliant, and reliable operations across manufacturing and research sites. The incumbent will mentor and manage the central utilities group, collaborate with cross-functional teams for seamless integration of systems, develop policies and procedures for compliance, and drive initiatives for energy efficiency and sustainability. Essential skills include a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, at least 6 years of technical management experience, strong leadership abilities, and knowledge of utility system design and regulatory standards. Preferred candidates have additional expertise in large-scale central utilities management within pharmaceutical or biotech industries, familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma, and proficiency with computerized maintenance management systems.
Skills
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Project Management
Lean
Six Sigma
Maximo
OSHA
EPA Refrigerant Standards
Energy Management
Sustainability Initiatives
Continuous Improvement Methodologies
Process Monitoring Tools
What you'll do
Lead strategic direction and performance of central utility systems, ensuring safe, compliant operations.
Manage and mentor the central utilities group, providing guidance on operational practices and technical expertise.
Develop policies and procedures for compliance with EPA refrigerant standards and other regulations.
Oversee budget planning and resource allocation for central utilities projects to ensure timely completion within constraints.
Drive initiatives for energy efficiency and sustainability in utility operations to align with environmental commitments.
Serve as primary point of contact for external audits, inspections, and regulatory compliance related to central utility systems.
What we're looking for
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or related)
Minimum 6 years of technical management experience in utility plant operations and maintenance
Proven leadership in supervising and developing engineering teams
Strong knowledge of utility system design, operation, and reliability in regulated environments
Experience in capital planning, project execution, and financial/budget management
Excellent problem-solving skills with ability to manage multiple priorities
Working knowledge of regulatory and safety standards (e.g., OSHA)
Market check
Salary context
This
$142,400–$224,100
range sits above
53%
of similar postings on FindRole.
Peer median band
$134,800–$216,000
Median floor and ceiling across peers.
Typical midpoint (25–75%)
$140,950–$241,400
Middle half of comparable postings.
Based on 239 comparable postings.*
* 240 is the maximum number of comparable postings sampled.
Employer
About MSD
MSD (Merck Sharp & Dohme) is the international name for Merck & Co., a major U.S.-based pharmaceutical company.
Remote (Usa-Client Durham Nc-Dell - Durham 4121, US)10 days ago
CMMS
BMS
EMS
Python
SQL
Excel
Project Management
Leadership
Communication
Problem Solving
Decision Making
Budget Management
Automation
Innovation
Safety Compliance
Energy Efficiency
Sustainability
Vendor Management
Training Development
Hiring Evaluation