BAS Programmer

Vertical Mechanical Group; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 81,000 - 99,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Technical training and certification

Job summary

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is seeking a Building Automation Systems (BAS) Programmer to design, program, integrate, troubleshoot, and commission BAS and HVAC control systems on commercial projects. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with Niagara N4, HVAC controls, and system integration, and can troubleshoot complex challenges independently while collaborating with field teams.

Join VMG's Controls team to apply expertise across project stages, read mechanical drawings, and help

Qualifications

• Hands-on BAS programming with HVAC controls and system integration.
• Strong knowledge of Niagara N4 and network protocols (BACnet/Modbus).
• Ability to troubleshoot complex controls issues independently.

Responsibilities

• Program, configure, and commission BAS and HVAC control systems.
• Develop and modify control programs using Niagara N4.
• Configure controllers, devices, points, alarms, schedules, trends, graphics.
• Troubleshoot and optimize control sequences and system performance.
• Collaborate with project teams and Commissioning agents during testing.

Skills

BAS programming

Troubleshooting

System integration

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Independence

Tools

Niagara N4

Niagara AX

BACnet

Modbus

CoolAutomation

Niagara Edge

Job description

Building Automation Systems (BAS) ProgrammerAbout Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG)

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is a leading mechanical contractor specializing in commercial HVAC, Plumbing, Controls, and Mechanical Services.

Originally formed through Anderson Mechanical Services, Inc. and Inspiration Plumbing Company, VMG brings decades of industry experience together with a forward-thinking approach to delivering high-quality mechanical solutions.

As we continue to expand our Controls capabilities, we are looking for a technically skilled Building Automation Systems (BAS) Programmer to join our growing team. This position will be responsible for programming, integrating, troubleshooting, and commissioning building automation and HVAC control systems across a variety of commercial projects.

The ideal candidate has hands‑on experience with Niagara N4, BAS programming, HVAC controls, and system integration, along with the ability to independently troubleshoot complex system and programming challenges.

What You’ll Do

• Program, configure, and commission commercial Building Automation Systems (BAS) and HVAC control systems
• Develop and modify control programs using Niagara N4 and related platforms
• Configure controllers, devices, points, alarms, schedules, trends, and system graphics
• Translate project sequences of operation into functional control programming
• Perform software updates, programming modifications, and system optimization
• Ensure control systems operate according to project specifications and design requirements

Commission & Verify System Performance

• Perform point-to-point checkout and verify proper communication between controllers, sensors, actuators, and equipment
• Test and verify control sequences and overall system functionality
• Support startup and commissioning of HVAC equipment and control systems
• Collaborate with third‑party Commissioning Agents during functional performance testing
• Identify deficiencies and coordinate corrective actions with Controls, Commissioning, Project Management, and field teams
• Document commissioning results and verify successful system operation before project turnover

Integrate HVAC & Building Systems

• Program and integrate controls for commercial HVAC systems including VAV, VRF, DOAS, hydronic systems, pumps, and cooling towers
• Configure and troubleshoot communication networks and connected building devices
• Support system integration utilizing BACnet, Modbus, and other building automation protocols
• Integrate third‑party equipment and systems into BAS platforms
• Work with CoolAutomation and similar integration solutions when applicable
• Verify reliable communication and data exchange across connected building systems

Troubleshoot & Optimize Controls

• Diagnose programming, communication, networking, hardware, and system performance issues
• Use system diagnostic tools to identify and resolve BAS problems
• Review control sequences and equipment operation to determine root causes of system issues
• Make programming adjustments to improve system functionality and performance
• Troubleshoot field devices, controllers, sensors, actuators, and network communication
• Provide independent technical solutions to complex controls challenges

Collaborate & Support the Team

• Work closely with Controls Technicians, Commissioning Engineers, Project Managers, field teams, vendors, and other project stakeholders
• Read and interpret mechanical drawings, control drawings, risers, wiring diagrams, specifications, and sequences of operation
• Coordinate programming and commissioning requirements with project teams
• Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support to coworkers
• Assist with training team members and customers on BAS functionality and system operation
• Maintain clear project documentation and communicate technical issues effectively

What You Bring

• 2+ years of hands‑on Building Automation Systems, HVAC controls, or BAS programming experience
• Strong experience with Niagara N4; Niagara AX experience also considered
• Experience programming and commissioning BAS and HVAC control systems
• Strong understanding of commercial HVAC equipment and sequences of operation
• Working knowledge of VAV, VRF, DOAS, hydronic systems, pumps, cooling towers, and related HVAC equipment
• Understanding of BACnet, Modbus, network communication, and system integration
• Working knowledge of low‑voltage electrical theory and its application within BAS environments
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, wiring diagrams, control schematics, risers, and technical documentation
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight while contributing effectively to a team
• Strong communication and organizational skillsAbility to travel to project locations as required

Preferred Experience

• Niagara Certification
• BACnet or Modbus training or certification
• Experience with CoolAutomation
• Experience with Niagara Edge controllers and related control hardware
• Experience integrating third‑party HVAC equipment and building systems
• Experience with functional performance testing and third‑party commissioning
• Experience programming controls for complex commercial HVAC systems
• Previous experience working for a commercial mechanical or controls contractor

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation based on experience
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Ongoing technical training and certification opportunities
• Professional development and career advancement within VMG
• Exposure to a wide variety of commercial HVAC and building automation systems
• Opportunities to expand your expertise in programming, controls integration, and commissioning
• A collaborative environment where technical knowledge and problem‑solving are valued

Why VMG?

At VMG, our Controls team plays an important role in ensuring the mechanical systems we install don't simply operate, but operate efficiently, intelligently, and as designed.

As a BAS Programmer, you'll have the opportunity to work across Controls, Commissioning, Project Management, and field operations while solving complex technical challenges and continuing to expand your expertise in building automation.

If you're a BAS professional with experience in Niagara N4, HVAC controls, system integration, and commissioning who enjoys troubleshooting and solving complex problems, we’d like to hear from you.

VMG is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Salary: $90000 per year