BAS Controls Service Technician - L2

CMS Controls Ohio; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development opportunities

Health benefits

Job summary

A leading controls services provider is seeking a Level 2 Controls Service Technician in Columbus, Ohio. This role involves advanced troubleshooting, optimization, and maintenance of Building Automation Systems (BAS) and HVAC systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in control logic and electrical systems, along with excellent customer service skills. Responsibilities include diagnosing issues, mentoring junior technicians, and ensuring peak system performance for clients. This position offers a dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in Controls or HVAC service.
• Strong understanding of DDC control logic and programming.
• Proficiency with low, medium, and line voltage electrical systems.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose complex issues in building automation systems and HVAC controls.
• Optimize BAS performance for energy efficiency and comfort.
• Serve as a primary technical point of contact for clients.

Skills

Advanced System Diagnostics

Troubleshooting HVAC Systems

Customer Interaction

Electrical Work

Leadership and Mentorship

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in HVAC, Controls, Electrical Engineering

Tools

BAS platforms (e.g., Tridium Niagara, Honeywell)

Job description

CMS Controls - Ohio Level 2 Controls Service Technician

The Level 2 Controls Service Technician is a seasoned professional responsible for providing advanced service, complex troubleshooting, maintenance, and optimization of Building Automation Systems (BAS) and associated HVAC control systems. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of control logic, network protocols, electrical systems, and complex HVAC operations. The Level 2 technician works with increased autonomy, mentors Level 1 technicians, and serves as a primary technical point of contact for clients, ensuring peak system performance and client satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Advanced System Diagnostics and Troubleshooting:
  • Independently diagnose and resolve complex issues within integrated building automation systems, including intermittent faults, network communication problems, and intricate control sequence errors.
  • Thoroughly analyze and interpret control logic, programming, and graphics within various BAS platforms to pinpoint root causes of system malfunctions.
  • Utilize advanced diagnostic tools and software to troubleshoot communication protocols (e.g., BACnet IP/MSTP, Modbus, LON, proprietary protocols) and network infrastructure.
  • Perform comprehensive troubleshooting of mechanical HVAC systems, including central plant equipment (e.g., chillers, boilers, cooling towers), VFDs, and complex air/water distribution systems, leveraging in-depth knowledge of mechanical and electrical wire schematics.
• System Optimization and Commissioning Support:
  • Implement strategies to optimize BAS performance for energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant comfort.
  • Perform and verify system calibrations, functional tests, and sequence of operation validations.
  • Assist with commissioning new BAS installations or system upgrades, ensuring all components operate as designed and specified.
  • Identify opportunities for system enhancements or upgrades and communicate findings to project management or sales.
• Programming and Configuration:
  • Modify and create basic to intermediate control programs and sequences of operation within various DDC (Direct Digital Control) platforms.
  • Configure and troubleshoot network settings for controllers and field devices.
  • Make minor graphic modifications or additions to BAS user interfaces.
• Electrical Work:
  • Demonstrate strong proficiency in working with low, medium, and line voltage electrical circuits in a commercial environment.
  • Safely perform advanced electrical troubleshooting, including motor controls, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and complex power distribution for control panels.
  • Ensure all electrical work complies with NEC and local codes.
• Customer Interaction and Relationship Management:
  • Serve as a primary technical contact for clients, providing clear, concise, and professional explanations of complex technical issues and solutions.
  • Build and maintain strong customer relationships through exceptional service and proactive communication.
  • Train clients on basic system operation and functionality as needed.
• Mentorship and Documentation:
  • Provide technical guidance and on-the-job training to Level 1 Controls Service Technicians.
  • Maintain meticulous and comprehensive documentation of all service activities, including detailed troubleshooting steps, resolutions, configuration changes, and system performance data.
  • Contribute to the development of best practices and standard operating procedures for service operations.

Basic Requirements

• Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of direct experience as a Controls Service Technician, HVAC Service Technician with strong controls exposure, or a similar field role.
• In-depth Controls Knowledge: Strong understanding of DDC control logic, programming fundamentals (function blocks, scripts), and various control signal types (analog, digital, serial). Ability to interpret and modify complex sequences of operation.
• Advanced Mechanical HVAC Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of commercial HVAC systems, including central plant operations, air handlers, terminal units, and refrigeration cycles. Proficient in reading and applying complex mechanical and electrical wire schematics.
• Proficient Electrical Experience: Strong experience and proficiency working safely with low (24VAC/DC), medium (120V/277V), and line voltage (up to 480V) electrical systems in commercial settings, including troubleshooting motor controls and VFDs.
• Networking Fundamentals: Solid understanding of IP networking principles, including subnetting, routing, and troubleshooting common network issues within a BAS environment.
• Software Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to navigate, configure, and troubleshoot within at least one major BAS platform (e.g., Tridium Niagara Framework, Distech, Honeywell, Johnson Controls, Siemens, Schneider Electric).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly to non-technical audiences.
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Valid driver's license.
• Ability to perform physical duties such as lifting up to 50 lbs., climbing ladders, working in confined spaces, and varied environmental conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in HVAC, Controls, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Specific BAS platform certifications (e.g., Niagara N4 Certified Professional).
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., EPA Universal Refrigerant, Master Electrician License, ASHRAE, CEM).
• Experience with system integration protocols (e.g., BACnet, Modbus, LON).
• Proven experience in energy management or building optimization.
• Experience with project commissioning and startup procedures.
• OSHA 30-hour construction safety certification.

Skills and Abilities

• Independent Problem Solver: Ability to work autonomously on complex issues with minimal supervision.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Capable of guiding and training junior technicians.
• Customer Focus: Dedicated to achieving high levels of customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships.
• Adaptability: Thrives in a dynamic environment, adapting to new technologies and challenging situations.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous in diagnosing, repairing, and documenting system performance.
• Strategic Thinking: Able to consider the long-term implications of service actions on overall system health and client objectives.