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Project Development Engineer: Green Jobs

Miguel - Performance Development Engineer

My name is Miguel, and I am a project development engineer.

I started out at Johnson Controls as a PDE. After 10 years in that role, I moved into another Johnson Controls service business. After a few years, I decided to return to the role of a PDE.

How I got here
I obtained a bachelors degree in mechanical engineering. I have been working at Johnson Controls for over 13 years.

What I do
My job is to design and engineer whole building systems to optimize for my clients' goals. Some clients are looking to become more energy efficient, others are focused on operational efficiency. Clients can optimize their buildings to streamline operations or become LEED certified. My job is to assess their building’s current status, propose system changes for improvement and translate the proposed changes into payback and operational savings.

A day in my life
Each project is different and each day is different. I spend time auditing building systems by walking through buildings and visually inspecting the facilities and their mechanical, electrical, lighting and controls equipment. I collect and review operational data in order to evaluate potential areas for savings. I meet with the other mechanical engineers, lighting consultants, contractors, and project managers in order to design for the best solution for each project.

My contribution to efficiency
Large scale buildings use a huge amount of energy, so it’s important that they are as energy efficient as possible.

One of the projects I have been working on is aimed at transforming a high profile skyscraper into a Class “A” building. We are increasing the building’s competitive value by creating improved space conditions: replacing chillers and building automation controls system, improving the building envelope and providing for on site energy generation (co-generation). In the end, this project will result in an improved design and visual appeal while being more sustainable in terms of reduced energy consumption.

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