Building Automation Systems (BAS) Technician

Virginia Commonwealth University; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Commonwealth University is seeking a BAS Technician to maintain, troubleshoot, program, and optimize building automation systems across campus facilities. You will work with Facilities Management staff, engineers, and vendors to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of building systems.

The role requires experience with BAS platforms and HVAC controls, strong diagnostic skills, and the ability to analyze trends to drive energy savings.

Qualifications

• Experience with Building Automation Systems and commercial HVAC controls.
• Ability to diagnose and resolve controls and automation system issues.
• Experience interpreting wiring diagrams, control drawings, and sequences of operation.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and maintain campus-wide Building Automation Systems for optimal performance and occupant comfort.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot BAS, HVAC, electrical, and mechanical system issues.
• Perform BAS programming, graphics development, system testing, and commissioning activities.
• Configure, calibrate, repair, and replace BAS components including sensors, controllers, and field devices.
• Analyze system trends, alarms, and performance data to identify improvements and energy-saving opportunities.
• Support multiple BAS platforms, including Johnson Controls, Siemens, Tridium/Niagara, and other control systems.
• Collaborate with technicians, engineers, contractors, and vendors to resolve system issues and improve facility operations.
• Participate in new construction, renovation, and controls upgrade projects by reviewing plans and providing technical expertise.
• Support critical research, laboratory, and specialty spaces through proactive monitoring and troubleshooting.
• Document work performed and maintain accurate service records using CMMS.

Skills

Building Automation Systems

HVAC controls

Diagnostics & troubleshooting

Programming BAS

System monitoring

Tools

Johnson Controls

Siemens

Tridium/Niagara

Job description

Unit: Facilities Operations Administration

Join VCU Facilities Management and help support one of the region's most complex building automation environments.

The BAS Technician is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, programming, and optimizing Building Automation Systems (BAS) that support VCU's academic, research, healthcare, and administrative facilities. This role works closely with Facilities Management staff, engineers, and vendors to ensure building systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably.

What You'll Do

• Monitor and maintain campus-wide Building Automation Systems to ensure optimal building performance and occupant comfort


• Diagnose and troubleshoot BAS, HVAC, electrical, and mechanical system issues


• Perform BAS programming, graphics development, system testing, and commissioning activities


• Configure, calibrate, repair, and replace BAS components including sensors, controllers, and field devices


• Analyze system trends, alarms, and performance data to identify operational improvements and energy-saving opportunities


• Support multiple BAS platforms, including Johnson Controls (JCI), Siemens, Tridium/Niagara, and other control systems


• Collaborate with technicians, engineers, contractors, and vendors to resolve system issues and improve facility operations


• Participate in new construction, renovation, and controls upgrade projects by reviewing plans and providing technical expertise


• Support critical research, laboratory, and specialty spaces through proactive monitoring and troubleshooting


• Document work performed and maintain accurate service records using the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS)

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience working with Building Automation Systems and commercial HVAC controls


• Knowledge of HVAC equipment, control systems, sensors, actuators, and control sequences


• Ability to diagnose and resolve controls and automation system issues


• Experience interpreting wiring diagrams, control drawings, and sequences of operation


• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities


• Valid Virginia Driver's License required


• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Johnson Controls, Siemens, Tridium/Niagara, or similar BAS platforms


• BAS programming and graphics development experience


• Experience supporting research, healthcare, higher education, or large commercial facilities


• Knowledge of energy management and building optimization strategies

Why Join VCU?

• Work on a varied portfolio of academic, healthcare, research, and laboratory facilities


• Exposure to multiple industry-leading BAS platforms and technologies


• Opportunities to participate in system modernization and capital improvement projects


• Competitive benefits package, retirement plan, paid leave, and tuition benefits


• Stable employment with opportunities for professional growth and technical development

This position participates in an on-call rotation and may be required to respond during emergencies, inclement weather events, and other critical campus operations.

Salary Range: $70,000 - $83,500

Benefits: All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more.

FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Work Days/Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am-3:30pm, shifts are 8 hours, after-hours as needed; regular on-call rotation required

Hours per Week: 40

Restricted Position: No

ORP Eligible: No

Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite

University Job Title: 17154N - Sr Electrical, Instrumentation, and Control [EI&C] Technician FM1