Building Automation Controls Systems Designer

Johnson Controls; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 61,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

Johnson Controls is seeking an HVAC Controls Systems Designer to support design and programming of HVAC control systems under supervision. You will translate project requirements into hardware designs, software, submittals, and installation documentation while aiding commissioning, troubleshooting, and warranty response.

The role involves selecting hardware, preparing detailed submittals, and coordinating drawings and manuals to meet project schedules.

Qualifications

• University degree or equivalent with related experience in controls systems.
• Experience installing and/or commissioning controls systems is preferred.
• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and control systems is essential.
• Strong technical aptitude and advanced computer skills are expected.

Responsibilities

• Design HVAC control system hardware and software following project requirements.
• Select hardware from standard libraries for diagrams, BOMs, and wiring schematics.
• Prepare submittals and documentation for customers, consultants, and field teams.
• Program software per established standards and project needs.
• Coordinate drawings, schedules, and as-built documentation for project timelines.
• Assist with loading, commissioning controllers, and troubleshooting with vendors and trades.
• Update documentation with field changes and prepare operation manuals.

Skills

Controls systems

Electrical knowledge

Mechanical understanding

Technical aptitude

Computer skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science

Job description

HVAC Controls Systems Designer

Johnson Controls is a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization. Backed by advanced technology, lifecycle services, and an industry-leading field organization, we help customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon emissions, and operate with the precision and resilience required in rapidly expanding industries.

For more than 140 years, Johnson Controls has delivered performance where it really matters, turning goals into real-world results and helping move society forward.

Role Overview

As an HVAC Controls Systems Designer, you will support the design and programming of HVAC control systems under direct supervision. In this role, you will help translate project requirements into hardware designs, software, submittals, and installation documentation while supporting commissioning, troubleshooting, and basic warranty response.

Key Responsibilities

• Design HVAC control system hardware and software using established standards and the intent of the project requirements.
• Select hardware from the standard design library for flow diagrams, sequence of operations, bill of material, network layouts, and electrical schematics.
• Prepare detailed submittals and documentation to communicate design and operation to customers, consultants, the Johnson Controls field installation team, and subcontractors.
• Perform software programming based on established standards and project needs.
• Coordinate the creation of drawings, equipment schedules, as-built drawings, software updates, and operation manuals.
• Select, order, and track materials for assigned projects and support factory-mounting activities to meet project schedules.
• Assist with loading and commissioning system-level and network-level controllers, validate system functionality, and troubleshoot issues with subcontractors and other trades.
• Gather field changes, update as-built documentation, and prepare system operation materials and manuals.
• Keep management, contractors, and customers informed of job progress, risks, and open issues.
• Assist with site-specific training for owners and operators and complete required paperwork, including time sheets, expense reports, and on-site documentation.
• Adhere to safety standards and maintain a high regard for employee and subcontractor safety.
• Respond to basic warranty calls as needed.

How You Will Do It

• Work under direct supervision and follow established design and programming standards to ensure each project meets its intended scope.
• Stay close to the project requirements, document decisions clearly, and communicate early when issues may affect schedule, quality, and commissioning.
• Use a practical, detail-focused approach when building submittals, drawings, schedules, and as-built documentation so field teams and customers can execute with confidence.
• Collaborate closely with consultants, subcontractors, field teams, and customers to remove obstacles and keep work moving safely and efficiently.
• Own the quality of your documentation, follow through on open items, and support continuous problem-solving throughout installation and startup.
• Contribute as part of one team by sharing information openly, respecting different perspectives, and supporting successful project outcomes.

Qualifications

• University degree and 1 year of suggested minimum experience, or 2-year degree and 6 years of suggested minimum experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with installing and/or commissioning controls systems, including system-level controllers.
• Demonstrated knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and control systems.
• Demonstrated technical aptitude.
• Demonstrated advanced computer skills.

Nice to Have

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science.

Why Join Us

Join a company where your work helps customers improve performance, strengthen resilience, and support sustainability goals across critical industries. At Johnson Controls, you will be part of a practical, collaborative environment that values safety, precision, and the real-world impact of good engineering.

HIRING HOURLY RANGE: $29.14-$43.75 (Hourly rate to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.) This position includes a competitive benefits package. The posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical profile. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use technology assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate candidates. All hiring deci