Lead System Specialist (Controls & Automation) - Data Center

CSS; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Ascent, now part of Wesco, seeks a Lead System Specialist (Controls & Automation) for Data Center environments. You will test, commission, and diagnose BAS/EPMS systems, configure networks, and lead project documentation while collaborating with clients and teams to ensure optimal operation.

The role requires 4+ years in data center or controls tech, BMS/BACNET/LON/MODBUS knowledge, and travel up to 50% with strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• High School degree or equivalent required.
• Bachelors in mechanical or electrical field preferred.
• Technical degree or HVAC training is valued.
• Controls/Instrumentation certification preferred.
• 4+ years in data center or controls technician role.
• Knowledge of BMS and BACNET/LON/MODBUS protocols.
• Familiar with TCP/IP and RS-485 configurations.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Proficient with Windows 10 and office software.

Responsibilities

• Test, commission, and diagnose BAS and EPMS systems.
• Analyze and optimize network communications for BMS/EPMS/DCIM.
• Assist design/configuration of BAS and EPMS as per contract.
• Lead TCP/IP and RS-485 network configurations on controls devices.
• Document projects, trends, and closeout reports.
• Act as SME at client sites and coordinate with teams.

Skills

BMS knowledge

BACNET/LON/MODBUS

TCP/IP networking

Mechanical knowledge

Communication skills

Team collaboration

MS Office / Visio

Reading drawings

Physical stamina

Travel 50%

Education

High School or equivalent

Bachelor's in Mechanical/Electrical

Technical degree or HVAC training

Controls/Instrumentation certification

Tools

Visio

Windows 10

Job description

Ascent, now part of Wesco, is a leading provider of mission‑critical facility solutions across North America. With deep expertise in data center development, engineering, and operations, Ascent supports thousands of sites for top‑tier clients, delivering reliable performance and innovative technology. As part of the Wesco family, Ascent continues to set the standard for safety, service, and operational excellence in the critical infrastructure sector.

As the Lead System Specialist (Controls & Automation) – Data Center, you will be responsible for testing, commissioning, and diagnosing Building Automation Systems (BAS), Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (EPMS), and related technologies in data center environments. You will configure network communications, analyze system performance, and collaborate with internal teams and clients to ensure optimal system functionality. You will also lead documentation efforts, support system design, and act as a subject matter expert across multiple client sites.

Responsibilities

• Test, commission, and diagnose BAS systems, EPMS systems, including but not limited to DCIM, Electrical, HVAC and other systems.
• Analyze and optimize communication issues with BMS, EPMS and DCIM systems.
• Assist in the design and configuration of BAS and EPMS systems as defined by the contract documentation.
• Lead configuration of TCP/IP networks and RS‑485 communications on controls devices as needed.
• Complete and track project documentation, build trend logs, and perform data entry.
• Compile project as‑builts including updated markups and closeout documentation.
• Work with facility technicians and building operators to implement changes in operating data center environments.
• Act as SME for client sites.
• Perform work on data center sites and follow required safety measures.
• Lead coordination efforts with vendors, clients, project managers, and internal and external teams.
• Work according to project timelines and required processes.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Degree or Equivalent.
• Bachelors Degree - Mechanical or Electrical Field or other related field preferred.
• Licenses/Certificates/Designations: Technical Degree or specialized experience/training in Mechanical or HVAC.
• Certification as a Controls Technician, Instrumentation Technician, Electronics Technician or similar field is preferred.
• 4+ years as a Data Center Technician, Controls Technician or related experience required.
• Knowledge of Building Management Systems (BMS) and of BACNET/LON/MODBUS protocols.
• Knowledge of TCP/IP network and RS‑485 network configuration.
• Keep project management apprised of concerns and issues. Track and record job progress and keep project personnel informed on progress upon arrival and before leaving the worksite.
• Complete paperwork on‑time including timesheets, posting of work orders, on‑site documentation, and project status reports.
• Must have a disciplined approach to managing task assignments. People skills, good judgment, and flexibility are critical to this position.
• General knowledge of safe working practices (e.g., familiar with proper tool safety, eye protection, ladder safety, etc.)
• Proficiency with basic operations of Windows 10 and standard office environment software is necessary.
• Able to read installation drawings (Visio drawings/spreadsheets).
• Able to perform all essential job functions, including walking, standing, bending, stooping, climbing, lifting up to 50 lbs. throughout the day, and manual dexterity, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must be a self‑starter and willing to learn new programs and applications
• Must possess strong communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Able to travel as needed up to 50% based on project needs.
• Strong coordination, technical troubleshooting, and adherence to safety protocols are essential to success in this position.
• Knowledge of DDC, PLC or similar Ladder‑Logic programming is preferred.
• Proficient in MS Office, Outlook and Visio preferred.
• Ability to travel 50%

Working Environment

Data Center - The data center work environment is a highly secure, physically demanding, and structured operation, characterized by its loud, controlled temperature conditions and 24/7/365 uptime. The environment demands a high attention to detail and strong problem‑solving skills to manage and troubleshoot critical equipment during regular operation and in emergency situations. Lifting up to 50 lbs, regular bending, stooping, climbing and long periods of walking / standing will be required.

Physical Expectations

• Work is physically strenuous and workers are required to lift heavy packages up to 50 pounds.
• Work may require excessive bending or stooping.
• Employee required to walk long distances repeatedly throughout the day.
• Employee required to climb ladders.
• Employee required to use hand tools.