Sr. Model Based Controls Engineer

Daikin Applied Americas Inc; Staunton (VA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 152,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401K match

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Daikin Applied Americas Inc. in Staunton, VA is seeking a Sr. Model Based Controls Engineer to design and implement software for HVAC control systems. The role emphasizes model-based design, dynamic modeling, and test-driven development across commercial and industrial chillers.

The position is hybrid (1 day/week from home) and requires 7+ years of related experience with strong engineering and OO software skills. C++, Linux, Modelica/Dymola, and FMI-based simulation are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering or equivalent required.
• 7+ years of related experience or equivalent education.
• Strong engineering knowledge and problem solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and model software for chiller equipment and systems.
• Direct engineering personnel in fabrication of test control apparatus.
• Develop applications of controls and systems for industrial uses.
• Coordinate testing to meet specifications and customer requirements.
• Integrate simulation tools into product development lifecycle.
• Interface with internal groups to meet project deadlines.

Skills

OO programming

Engineering knowledge

Problem solving

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering

Tools

C++

Linux

Modelica / Dymola

FMI simulation

Job description

Join the world's largest HVAC company, named by Forbes as one of America's Best-In-State Employers 2025! Daikin Applied is seeking a Sr. Model Based Controls Engineer. The Sr. Model Based Controls Engineer will design, modify, develop, and implement software programming applications for HVAC equipment with focus on Model Based Controls design. The work includes new product development, utility or diagnostic software integrated with dynamic modeling tools and design. Come be a part of an exciting journey at Daikin Applied, where innovation and excellence drive our every endeavour! Location: Staunton, VA – Hybrid (1 day/week from home)

Your Responsibilities:

• Design and model software for chiller equipment and systems for commercial, industrial, domestic and internal purposes.
• Design and direct engineering personnel in fabrication of test control apparatus and equipment, and determine methods, procedures and conditions for testing products.
• Develop applications of controls, instruments and systems for new commercial, domestic and industrial uses.
• Direct activities to ensure that manufacturing, construction, installation and operational testing conform to functional specifications and customer requirements.
• Direct and coordinate operation, maintenance and repair of equipment and systems in field and internal installations.
• Use computer assisted engineering and design software and equipment to perform engineering tasks.
• Participate in the testing process through test plan development, test review and analysis and software certification.
• Interface with internal client groups to understand all planned projects and meet project schedule deadlines.
• Work cross‑functionally to integrate simulation tools into the product development lifecycle, guide simulation best practices and support innovative HVAC product development efforts.

Your Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree (Computer Science or Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Equivalent).
• 7+ years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Requires in-depth knowledge of principles and practices of engineering.
• Strong organisational, interpersonal and communications skills.
• Extensive problem solving and computer skills.
• Knowledge of object‑oriented software development and ability to build and test dynamic models to support control strategy development.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Software experience with C++, Linux OS and Model‑in‑the‑loop (MiL) testing using Modelica/Dymola and FMI‑based simulation environments.
• HVAC industry experience.

Your Benefits:

• Multiple medical insurance plan options + dental and vision insurance.
• 401K retirement plan with employer match.
• Paid time off and company‑paid holidays.
• Paid sick time in accordance with the federal, state and local law.
• Tuition Reimbursement after 6 months of continuous service.
• Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

The typical annual base salary for this position ranges from $90,400 - $151,800 + 10% bonus in Minnesota and Virginia. The range displayed represents the pay range for all positions in the job grade in which this position falls. Individual base pay will depend on a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience and location.

#LI-NA1 Employment is contingent upon successful completion of pre‑employment requirements, including verification of employment history, education, background screening and drug testing where permitted by law. Safety‑sensitive positions may require cannabis (marijuana) testing. All testing and employment decisions will comply with applicable federal, state and local laws. If you're looking for an engaging career with growth opportunities in a supportive environment, you'll love a career at Daikin Applied! Building a more sustainable planet. Creating comfortable, healthy spaces for people to connect, live and work. Perfecting the air we share.

Daikin Applied is not just an HVAC company. We're part of a global technology powerhouse that uses Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) to transform the world. We're innovators and leaders. Not only as a business, but as individuals. And we are honoured to say we were named to Forbes' America's Best-In-State Employers list for 2025, ranking #1 in Minnesota for Manufacturing and Engineering. You see, we're not just innovating on the outside. We're innovating on the inside to unlock people's unlimited potential and bring out the diverse and groundbreaking ideas that will help us solve today's most pressing challenges. That's why Daikin offers more than a job. Here's where you'll be heard, be valued, belong – and be able to make your mark. Over the past several years, we’ve proudly welcomed several organisations into our family, each bringing unique strengths, deep expertise and talented teams. As we continue to grow, these partners play a vital role in expanding our capabilities and shaping the future of our organisation. Whatever Daikin Applied company you join, you’ll be part of a unified, supportive environment where you can make an impact and grow your career.