Automation Systems Engineer

Sunbelt Controls; Pleasanton (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 114,000; Full time

Job summary

Sunbelt Controls is seeking a technically skilled programmer with HVAC/BAS experience to develop databases, control programs, and system graphics for assigned projects.

The role emphasizes remote testing, commissioning support, and collaboration with engineers and field teams to ensure optimal performance and adherence to project requirements.

Qualifications

• Associates Degree in a technical field or 2-5 years of related work experience in building automation systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, computer science, or related field preferred.
• Proficiency with industry-standard programming languages, protocols, and software tools (BACnet, Modbus, Lon Works, Niagara Framework).
• Working knowledge of MS Office, Windows, TCP/IP networks; highly organized for a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to operate independently and take ownership of tasks.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and strong attention to detail.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Supports design engineering development to ensure hardware is included to meet system sequences.
• Performs software development for control systems databases, programs and graphics.
• Coordinates with Project Managers, Engineers, and Field Technicians to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Collaborates with mechanical/electrical engineers and contractors for proper integration of HVAC controls.
• Supports remote testing and commissioning activities from an office location.
• Develops and supports third-party integrations of other vendor products.
• Ensures adherence to Sunbelt’s programming standards and cybersecurity policies.

Skills

HVAC controls programming

BAS systems knowledge

PLC/SCADA programming

Education

Associates Degree in a technical field

Bachelor’s degree preferred

HVAC Controls Programming certification

Tools

BACnet

Modbus

LonWorks

Niagara Framework

Job description

Job Description

This role requires the individual to apply their technical knowledge and experience for successful HVAC/BAS systems database and program development along with the creation of custom graphics as needed for assigned projects. The role also requires a proficient level of BAS controls and mechanical system knowledge as well as programming, field experience and proficiency with industry-standard software and protocols. In addition, this non-field role may support the pre-functional and functional testing of their code development remotely from an office location. Functional systems software test scripts are developed from approved hardware designs and system sequence of operations and turned over to the field team responsible for testing and validating program code compliance against contract requirements. The position requires a proficient level of programming and field experience in HVAC system and BAS applications.

Essential Functions

• Supports design engineering development and reviews to ensure hardware device inclusion is sufficient to meet the intent of the systems sequence of operations.
• Performs and leads software development in the generation of control systems databases, programs, and system graphics for assigned projects.
• Coordinates with Project Managers, Engineers, and Field Technicians to ensure timely completion of projects within budget and according to project specifications.
• May at times collaborate with mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and contractors to ensure proper integration of HVAC controls programming with overall building systems.
• May Support the execution of the initial systems point-to-point commissioning activities remotely from the office.
• May support the remote troubleshooting of local and wide area network issues as they arise at specific project sites.
• Utilizes computer hardware and software to support and/or execute the pre-functional testing of the system software code in relationship to the design sequence of operations. Participates remotely to support the final systems functional systems testing relative to standard, third party, LEED, Title 24, and Guideline 36 testing as required.
• Possesses the knowledge or attains the training necessary to efficiently program and support Sunbelt Controls OEM partnerships product lines.
• Develops and utilizes the skills to effectively work with third party integrations of other vendor products, systems, and protocols, as necessary.
• May Support in identifying, troubleshooting, and resolution of issues related to HVAC controls, including software bugs, communication errors, and hardware malfunctions.
• Analyzes System Performance, Identifies Inefficiencies, and recommends corrective actions.
• Develops, customizes, and optimizes control strategies for HVAC systems using industry-standard protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, and Lon Works.
• Conducts design reviews, peer evaluations, and simulations to validate system performance, reliability, and safe operation of mechanical systems.
• May support as necessary Commissioning Agent coordination meetings for programming sequences and functional test script development as required by the assigned projects.
• May at times support project turnover of the project from the construction phase to the Service team on program/sequence review and database backups, as necessary.
• Assists Design Engineers with the validation of sequence of operations development against design build and/or contract requirements.
• Manages assigned project time commitments and budgets as required and regularly provide feedback on the status of both.
• Communicates effectively with other project team members regarding assigned work status, progress updates, issues, obstacles, and information needs via utilization of the Slack project communications and PORT operations tools.
• Responsible for adherence to Sunbelt’s programming standards and guidelines as developed by various technical committees
• Effectively manages time and tracks work progress and cost-to-complete through various operational processes and tools.
• Adheres to company policy, standards, and solutions with respect to implemented cybersecurity solutions.
• Responsible for practicing safe work habits and participates in office safety program requirements and that of any specific safety requirements of all assigned projects.
• Other duties as assigned by department and corporate leadership, as necessary.

Education And Experience

• Associates Degree in a technical field or 2-5 years of related work experience in building automation systems. Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, computer science, or related field preferred.
• Relevant certifications in HVAC Controls Programming or Building Automation Systems are advantageous.
• Proficiency with Industry-standard programming languages, protocols, and software tools (BACnet, Modbus, Lon Works, Niagara Framework etc.)
• Working knowledge of MS Office, Windows, File Structure. Basic TCP/IP network structure and web navigation are desired. Must be highly organized and possess the ability to work in a high paced environment with the ability to prioritize tasks to meet the schedules.
• Ability to operate independently and autonomously and take ownership of all assigned tasks.
• Excellent critical thinking and critical thinking skills along with an attention to detail.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Ability to execute their work to ensure high customer satisfaction and the highest quality of delivery.
• Excellent oral, written, and people skills are a requirement of this position.

Competencies

• Proactivity / Initiative: Recognizes what needs to be done and accomplishes it in a manner appropriate for one’s level/position and with minimal supervision.
• Perseverance: Shows wherewithal to fight for difficult goals despite challenges and to bounce back from adversity.
• Insight: The ability to gather and make sense of information that suggests new possibilities.
• Engagement: Shows a knack for using emotion and logic to communicate persuasively vision and connect with people.
• Teamwork: The ability to effectively work toward common goals with others by supporting, encouraging, and sharing information in an authentic and approachable manner.
• Big Picture: Understands and contributes to organizations’ short- and long-term business strategy. On a personal level, has independently developed a vision for short- and long-term career success.
• Motivation / Dedication: Commits to excellence in pursuing unselfish goals. Initiates action with collective goals takes responsibility, and shows personal humility.
• Technical Curiosity / Willingness to Learn: Interest in seeking out new experiences, knowledge, and candid feed, back; demonstrating an openness to learning and change.
• Problem-Solver: Ability to identify, analyze, and solve a problem in support of personnel, group, department, or organizational objectives.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and stand, use hands to operate computer keyboard and telephone and talk and hear.

• Lift and/or move up to fifty pounds, along with the ability to climb up and down ladders.
• Lift and/or move up to 50 lbs. occasionally, and/or up to 20 lbs. of force frequently, and/or up to 10lbs. of force constantly to move objects.
• Ability to climb up and down ladder frequently.
• The employee must possess the ability to navigate the complexities of a construction site while working on site and practicing the site safety requirements and policies of the Company.

Competitive Wages

$90,000 to $114,000 Annual Salary. Applicants please note that actual compensation is determined by several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to job-related skills, depth of experience, certifications, relevant education or training, and specific work location, among others. The offered wage or salary is only one aspect of an employee's total compensation.