Controls Technician

Brown University; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University’s Facilities Management seeks a Controls Technician to maintain and service electrical and mechanical HVAC control systems across campus. You will read schematics, run diagnostics, and ensure reliability of the university’s Energy Management System.

The role requires climbing, lifting up to 50 pounds, and the ability to work varying shifts including overtime as needed. A City of Providence Refrigeration Machine Operator license is required or obtained within 1 year.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical control systems.
• Computer skills including Microsoft Office and email.
• Willing to meet safety certification requirements and follow procedures.

Responsibilities

• Perform preventive maintenance on HVAC control systems.
• Install and integrate new HVAC control systems or components.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain HVAC control equipment.

Skills

Mechanical control systems

Electrical control systems

Networking knowledge

Hand tools

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Refrigeration license

Job description

Job Description: Facilities Management is an exceptionally talented team built from a diverse group of individuals who are passionate about providing the highest levels of quality craftsmanship, customer service, and teamwork through sustainable practices and who take pride in supporting the mission of the University and Facilities Management “We Care” principle values.

The Controls Technician performs corrective and preventive maintenance by testing, servicing, and repairing mechanical, pneumatic, electric, and electronic control equipment associated with heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and the University-wide Energy Management System. This position is considered essential. Personnel may be required to respond to campus emergencies both during and off shift.

Primary Responsibilities

• Carries out scheduled preventive maintenance on building HVAC control systems.
• Installation of new or additional systems within HVAC and computer control.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain all equipment associated with the installation and maintenance of HVAC control systems.
• Orders materials and supplies as required.
• Reads and interprets plans, blueprints, sketches and specifications.
• Maintains clean work area and/or clean job site upon completion of assignment.
• Trains and directs lower grade employees assigned to project.
• Performs assignments that may include scheduled overtime.
• Responsible to respond to overtime work on recall, which may include unscheduled and emergency recall situations, during off hours, including nights, weekends and holidays.
• Observes safety rules and precautions.
• Performs related duties as required.

General responsibilities include responding, evaluating, and executing electronic service requests and maintenance repair work orders including entering accurate records of work performed and materials used into FM’s computerized maintenance management software using mobile technology devices. This position requires the ability to use a computer, laptop, or mobile device comfortably.

Qualifications

• Overall knowledge of mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical control systems, including the ability to skillfully apply the same.
• Computer skills, including Microsoft Office, e-mail and familiarity with Google Applications.
• Should have Networking knowledge and be able to change IP settings on personal laptop for controller setup.
• Must possess their own hand tools.
• Must be able to follow standard procedures, read and understand blueprints.
• Must be physically able to lift and carry 50 pounds unassisted and possess the physical strength to perform strenuous work both indoors and outside.
• Must have the physical ability to walk throughout the campus and to climb stairs throughout the duration of the shift.
• Ability to climb and work from ladders, lifts, scaffolding, and staging heights up to 100 feet.
• Brown’s Office of Risk Management requires the use of a self-contained Breathing Apparatus and/or Respirators as a precautionary safety measure in areas deemed to be an exposure hazard to employees. Candidates must be able to obtain certification in the use of a Respirator. In order to be certified, candidates must be able to successfully pass a physical and pulmonary function test at a clinic, attend a training class and be able to be fitted with a Respirator. No person can be certified to wear a self-contained Breathing Apparatus/Respirator who has a beard.
• Ability to meet and effectively deal with others in the University community.
• Must be able to follow standard procedures, read and understand blueprints.
• Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator’s license is required.
• High School education or equivalency required.
• Objective bench test and/or field test will be required.
• Willingness and ability to support a diverse and inclusive environment.

Technical Requirements

• Must possess a City of Providence Refrigeration Machine Operator license. OR
• Have 5 years direct experience as a Control System technician and obtain a City of Providence Refrigeration Machine Operator license within 1 year.
• Three years’ full time work experience in building and equipment maintenance or installation and troubleshooting of HVAC control systems.
• Background check satisfactory to Brown University.

Benefits of Working at Brown

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

Recruiting Start Date: 2026-09-21 Job Posting Title: Controls Technician Department: Facilities Management and Campus Operations Grade: Facilities Union Rates Worker Type: Employee Worker Sub-Type: Regular Time Type: Full time Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 Position Work Location:

Submission Guidelines: The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote. Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C. Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Still Have Questions? If you have any questions you may contact [e-mail]. Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.

Welcome!

Founded in 1764, Brown is a leading institution for education, discovery, and global intellectual progress as well as one of the largest employers in Rhode Island. Working at Brown brings more than just a paycheck and generous benefits; it offers an opportunity to contribute to a greater good. Join us in supporting the pursuit of knowledge and individual growth that defines higher education and enriches our community.

Additional Information

You can find detailed information about our salary ranges on our website.