Controls Engineer

JOB OVERVIEW

The Controls Engineer (also known as Building Automation Engineer, Project Engineer, or Applications Engineer) designs, engineers, and deploys Building Automation Systems (BAS) for commercial and industrial facilities, focusing on HVAC control systems, energy management, and building optimization. This role involves system design, control sequence development, equipment specification, submittal preparation, and coordination with customers and consulting engineers. The Controls Engineer serves as the technical expert for BAS projects, ensuring systems are properly designed, documented, and commissioned to meet project requirements and performance objectives. Reporting to the COO, this position has no direct supervisory responsibilities but coordinates closely with Project Managers, technicians, and subcontractors.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Design and engineer Building Automation Systems including system architecture, control network design, and equipment specifications. Develop control sequences of operations for HVAC equipment including air handlers, chillers, boilers, VAV systems, pumps, cooling towers, and specialized equipment. Prepare comprehensive shop drawings, submittals, and equipment schedules by reviewing project MEP plans, specifications, and bid documents. Create control drawings including point-to-point wiring diagrams, network layouts, system risers, and panel schedules. Select and specify DDC controllers, sensors, actuators, valves, dampers, and control panels to meet project requirements. Develop points databases and system configurations for BAS platforms (Tridium/Niagara, Distech, or similar). Apply understanding of control programming and graphics for control systems. Interface with customers, facility managers, consulting engineers, and mechanical contractors to coordinate project requirements. Coordinate with general contractors, electrical subcontractors, and other trades to obtain current construction drawings and change orders. Provide technical support to project managers, programmers, and field technicians during system installation, startup, and commissioning. Perform system commissioning including functional performance testing and verification of control sequences. Order equipment and materials based on project schedules and requirements. Conduct site surveys and assessments to evaluate existing systems and determine project scope. Support estimating and sales teams with technical expertise during pre-sales and proposal development. May act as Project Manager for smaller projects or serve as design/applications engineer on larger projects. Manage and engineer multiple projects across various client sites, ensuring timelines and deliverables are met. Maintain customer satisfaction with building owners, mechanical contractors, and consulting engineers. Stay current with BAS technologies, energy codes, and industry best practices.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma required. 4-year technical degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or related field preferred. Candidates with military background or 2-year technical degree in a related field, combined with significant experience (4-6 years working as an engineer or high-functioning technician), will be considered in lieu of 4-year degree. Minimum 3-5 years of experience in BAS design, controls engineering, or HVAC controls (or equivalent combination of education and experience). Strong working knowledge of HVAC systems, control sequences, and building automation technologies. Basic knowledge of electricity and electrical circuits. Experience with BAS platforms such as Tridium/Niagara, Distech, or equivalent systems. Ability to read and create mechanical and electrical drawings using AutoCAD or similar software. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, Visio) and engineering drawing tools. Knowledge of communication protocols including BACnet, Modbus, LON, and Ethernet/IP. Understanding of HVAC system design, psychrometrics, and energy efficiency principles. Familiarity with new construction, renovation/retrofit, and service projects. Knowledge of contracting processes and subcontractor relationships. Strong technical writing skills for specifications, submittals, and documentation. Excellent customer-facing communication and presentation skills. Valid driver's license without restrictions. Ability to pass background checks, DMV checks, and drug screenings

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, engineering technology, or related field. Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification. Tridium/Niagara certifications (NACE, NACN, or higher). Distech Controls or other BAS platform certifications. Experience with building commissioning and functional performance testing. Knowledge of ASHRAE standards, energy codes (IECC, Title 24), and LEED requirements. Certified Energy Manager (CEM) or similar energy professional certification. Experience with energy modeling and building performance analysis. Project management experience or PMP certification.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

Strong systems-level thinking and ability to design integrated control solutions. Excellent problem-solving skills for complex technical challenges. Customer service orientation with ability to translate technical concepts to non-technical audiences. Strong project coordination skills and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize effectively. Collaborative mindset for working with cross-functional teams. Self-motivated with continuous learning approach to new technologies. Professional written and verbal communication skills. Analytical skills for system optimization and troubleshooting.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

e orientation with ability to translate technical concepts to non-technical audiences. Strong project coordination skills and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize effectively. Collaborative mindset for working with cross-functional teams. Self-motivated with continuous learning approach to new technologies. Professional written and verbal communication skills. Analytical skills for system optimization and troubleshooting.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Primarily office-based with regular site visits for surveys, commissioning, and coordination meetings. Ability to conduct facility walks and equipment inspections, which may require accessing mechanical rooms, climbing ladders, and navigating construction sites. Lift and carry up to 25 pounds (laptop, test equipment, documentation). Extended periods of computer work for system design, drawing creation, and documentation. Occasional after-hours availability for system commissioning and project meetings. Primarily office-based with regular site visits for surveys, commissioning, and coordination meetings. Ability to conduct facility walks and equipment inspections, which may require accessing mechanical rooms, climbing ladders, and navigating construction sites. Lift and carry up to 25 pounds (laptop, test equipment, documentation). Extended periods of computer work for system design, drawing creation, and documentation. Occasional after-hours availability for system commissioning and project meetings.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Mix of office work (60-70%) and field visits to customer sites and construction projects (30-40%).

Work schedule:

Monday-Friday (typical business hours) with flexibility for customer meetings and occasional after-hours commissioning. Commercial buildings, industrial facilities, hospitals, educational institutions, and data centers. Some travel within designated territory, including occasional overnight stays depending on project locations (15-25%). Exposure to mechanical rooms, electrical spaces, and construction environments during site visits.

Reports to:

Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Keywords:

Siemens TIA, Siemens S7

Job Types:

Full-time, Permanent Pay:

$110,000.00 - $140,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Relocation assistance Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person