Senior Controls Engineer – Building Automation Lead

Vertical Mechanical Group Inc; Sterling (VA); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead building automation system design and integration on commercial HVAC projects. You will specify DDC controllers, networks, and sequences of operation while collaborating with field technicians, programmers, and project teams.

We value ownership, problem-solving, and clear documentation from submittals through commissioning, with travel to DC, MD, and VA sites as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field or equivalent controls engineering experience.
• 5–7 years of building automation or controls engineering experience, including shop drawing development.
• Strong knowledge of DDC controllers, BACnet MS/TP, BACnet/IP, and Modbus RTU/TCP protocols.
• Experience with Lynxspring, Johnson Controls Facility Explorer, and Distech Controls systems.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Visio for controls drafting.
• Strong understanding of low-voltage control circuits, wiring practices, and BAS networking.
• Knowledge of HVAC systems (air handling units, VAV, central plants, DOAS, VRF, hydronics).
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and controls drawings and sequences of operation.
• Familiarity with ASHRAE 36/135 and NEC requirements.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel across DC/MD/VA region.

Responsibilities

• Develop complete controls shop drawings and submittals including schematics, wiring diagrams, network risers, panel layouts, points lists, BOMs, and sequences of operation.
• Review drawings, specs, and equipment submittals to determine controls scope and integration needs.
• Select and apply DDC controllers, I/O modules, sensors, actuators, valves, and network devices.
• Design BAS network architecture (BACnet MS/TP/IP, Modbus RTU/TCP) and third-party integration.
• Provide guidance to BAS programmers, startup technicians, and field installers during installation, testing, and commissioning.
• Prepare as-built drawings and assist with project closeout documentation.
• Support estimating teams with point counts and technical scope reviews.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to engineering standards.

Skills

DDC controllers

BACnet MS/TP

BACnet/IP

Modbus RTU/TCP

Lynxspring

Johnson Controls Facility Explorer

Distech Controls

Microsoft Visio

low-voltage controls

HVAC systems knowledge

interpret drawings

project multitasking

travel (valid driver's license)

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Building Systems Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field

Tools

Niagara Framework

AutoCAD

Job description

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead building automation system design and integration on commercial HVAC projects. You will specify DDC controllers, networks, and sequences of operation while collaborating with field technicians, programmers, and project teams.

We value ownership, problem-solving, and clear documentation from submittals through commissioning, with travel to DC, MD, and VA sites as needed.