Building Automation Specialist; Facilities, Real Estate & Planning

Wake Forest University; Winston-Salem (NC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Wake Forest University seeks a Building Automation Specialist to monitor BAS, analyze energy data, and implement optimization strategies across Reynolda Campus. You will collaborate with facilities, engineers, and contractors to drive energy savings and reduce emissions.

The role emphasizes data-driven decisions, retro-commissioning, and documentation of improvements. A background in HVAC systems and BAS platforms is required.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent in Electrical Engineering Technology, HVAC Technology, Building Automation, or related field with 3–5 years of experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of commercial building systems and control technologies including HVAC systems, sensors, and control theory.
• Proficient with at least one major BAS platform and able to diagnose and troubleshoot BAS, metering, and related software.
• Strong analytical skills to assess energy performance and recommend improvements.
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and technical documentation.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and Google software; able to work with building system software tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; strong interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide continuous monitoring and analyze data from BAS to identify performance degradation and inefficiencies; implement tuning and retro-commissioning solutions.
• Assist in design review, project oversight, and re-commissioning of major HVAC systems.
• Contribute to campus analytics efforts (e.g., Fault Detection and Diagnostics) for predictive optimization.
• Collaborate with Facilities Maintenance, campus engineers, and external contractors to diagnose and resolve energy-related issues.
• Perform facility walkthroughs and energy audits; document data-driven corrective measures with cost-benefit analyses.
• Lead campus energy metering program; ensure data integrity and reliable metering infrastructure.
• Support planning and management of campus energy conservation projects.
• Maintain thorough documentation of system changes, project scopes, and energy savings.

Skills

HVAC knowledge

Data analysis

BAS platforms

Troubleshooting

Communication

Education

Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology / HVAC / Building Automation

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

CMMs

Building system software

Job description

External Applicants:

Please ensure all required documents are ready to upload before beginning your application, including your resume, cover letter, and any additional materials specified in the job description.

Cover Letter and Supporting Documents:

Navigate to the 'My Experience' application page.

Locate the 'Resume/CV' document upload section at the bottom of the page.

Use the 'Select Files' button to upload your cover letter, resume, and any other required supporting documents. You can select multiple files.

Important Note: The 'My Experience' page is the only opportunity to attach your cover letter, resume, and supporting documents. You will not be able to modify your application or add attachments after submission.

Current Employees:

Apply from your existing Workday account in the Jobs Hub. Do not apply from this website.

A cover letter is required for all positions; optional for facilities, campus services, and hospitality roles unless otherwise specified.

Job Description Summary

The Building Automation Specialist supports the university's Building Performance Improvement Initiative, which aims to reduce energy consumption, operational costs, and greenhouse gas emissions across the Reynolda Campus and surrounding properties. Working in close collaboration with the utilities and maintenance teams, the specialist develops, monitors, and assists in the management of programs for HVAC Building Automation Systems (BAS), energy metering, and broader energy and carbon-reduction efforts. This role is integral in identifying system inefficiencies and recommending practical, data-driven solutions to optimize building performance.

Job Description

*This position is not eligible for sponsorship of non-immigrant or immigrant visa status through Wake Forest University. All eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.

Essential Functions:

• Provide continuous monitoring and regularly analyze data from Building Automation Systems (BAS) to proactively identify performance degradation, operational inefficiencies, or programming defects in HVAC systems. Develop and implement technical solutions (e.g., control sequence tuning, retro-commissioning) to restore peak performance.
• Assist in the design review, project oversight, and execution of re-commissioning efforts for major HVAC systems to verify and sustain optimal operation.
• Contribute to the development, deployment, and utilization of a Campus Building Analytics platform (e.g., Fault Detection and Diagnostics - FDD) to shift operations from reactive maintenance to predictive optimization.
• Collaborate effectively with internal Facilities Maintenance teams, campus engineers, and external third-party contractors to quickly diagnose and resolve complex operational and energy-related issues.
• Perform detailed facility walkthroughs and energy audits to identify high-consumption areas and wasted energy with precision. Propose and document data-driven corrective measures, supported by precise cost-benefit analyses.
• Serve as the technical lead for the campus energy metering program. Troubleshoot system issues, ensure the integrity and accuracy of energy data, and maintain the reliability of the metering infrastructure for robust reporting and analysis.
• Provide support for the planning, design, and management of end-to-end campus-wide energy conservation and management projects focused on maximizing efficiency and achieving sustainability goals.
• Maintain meticulous, accurate documentation of all system changes, project scopes, implementation progress, and verified project outcomes and energy savings.

Other Functions:

• Report safety-related concerns to the appropriate Safety Director.
• Adhere to all University and departmental policies and procedures.

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, HVAC Technology, Building Automation, or related field with 3 to 5 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of commercial building systems and control technologies with a solid understanding of HVAC systems, sensors, and control theory.
• Proficient in understanding operations of at least one major BAS platform, including the ability to diagnose and troubleshoot the BAS, metering, and related software systems.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess energy performance and recommend improvements.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical documentation.
• Proficient with computer technology and software, including Microsoft Suites, Google Software, CMMs, and building system software tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to interact effectively with internal teams and external vendors.
• Strong customer service orientation and interpersonal skills.
• Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record and ability to meet University insurance requirements.
• This position may be designated as essent