Systems Engineer

Horwitz; New Hope (MN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Horwitz, a long‑standing leader in HVAC, electrical, and plumbing services, is seeking a Systems Engineer to design, develop, and commission building automation systems. The role blends engineering with cross‑functional collaboration to deliver reliable, scalable BAS solutions across client facilities in Minnesota.

You’ll model and test control strategies, specify hardware and networks, and work with project teams to ensure timely delivery while upholding Horwitz’s safety and professionalism

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience in Building Automation or Controls.
• Technical degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering preferred.
• Certifications in controls platforms (e.g., Tridium, Johnson Controls, Siemens) preferred.
• Experience with Visio and CAD drawing tools required.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop BAS, including control schematics and device integration strategies.
• Specify hardware, software, and network components based on customer needs.
• Utilize software tools to model, simulate, and optimize system design and performance.
• Hands‑on installation support, commissioning, and start‑up of BAS systems at job sites.
• Conduct comprehensive system testing and troubleshooting to verify functionality.
• Provide remote and onsite technical support during construction, commissioning, and warranty phases.
• Collaborate with project managers, field technicians, and external contractors to coordinate deliverables and timelines.
• Serve as a technical liaison between design teams and installers to ensure accurate execution of engineering intent.
• Produce and maintain detailed documentation, including system architecture drawings and test protocols.

Skills

HVAC knowledge

Control sequences

BACnet/Modbus

Industrial protocols

Scripting/logical platforms

MS Office

Verbal & written comms

multitasking

Education

Engineering degree (Mechanical/Electrical/CS)

Controls certifications preferred

Tools

Visio

AutoCAD

CAD drawing tools

MS Office

Job description

At Horwitz, we don’t just offer jobs—we build careers. For over 100 years, we’ve been a leader in HVAC, plumbing, electrical services, delivering exceptional service while fostering a supportive and innovative workplace. Joining our team means working with passionate professionals in a culture built on safety, accountability, professionalism, motivation, curiosity, and a can‑do attitude.

We’re committed to your growth with training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities. Along with competitive benefits—you’ll be part of a company that values its employees and makes a positive impact in the community. Join Horwitz and become part of a legacy of excellence and opportunity.

The Systems Engineer plays a critical role in the design, development, integration, and commissioning of building automation systems that improve energy efficiency, safety, and occupant comfort across client facilities. This position blends technical expertise with cross‑functional collaboration to deliver innovative, reliable, and scalable automation solutions. The ideal candidate embraces Horwitz’s values of being Safe, Accountable, Professional, Motivated, Can Do, and Curious, and continuously seeks to enhance system performance and exceed client expectations.

Key Responsibilities

These responsibilities generally describe the nature of the position and may not be all inclusive:

• System Design & Development
  • Design and develop building automation systems (BAS), including control schematics, sequences of operation, and device integration strategies.
• Specify hardware, software, and network components based on customer needs and project specifications.
• Utilize software tools to model, simulate, and optimize system design and performance.
• Implementation & Testing
  • Perform hands‑on installation support, commissioning, and start‑up of BAS systems at job sites.
• Conduct comprehensive system testing and troubleshooting to verify functionality and compliance.
• Provide remote and onsite technical support during construction, commissioning, and warranty phases.
• Collaboration & Communication
  • Work closely with project managers, field technicians, and external contractors to coordinate deliverables and timelines.
• Serve as a technical liaison between design teams and installers to ensure accurate execution of engineering intent.
• Collaborate with IT, MEP, and security vendors to ensure seamless system integration.
• Documentation & Reporting
  • Produce and maintain detailed documentation, including system architecture drawings, point‑to‑point checklists, control diagrams, user guides, and test protocols.
• Maintain accurate records in shared databases and contribute to documentation of lessons learned for future reference.
• Process Improvement & Innovation
  • Stay current with emerging trends in controls technology, software platforms, and networking protocols (e.g., BACnet, Modbus, Ethernet/IP).
• Recommend automation enhancements and process improvements to improve reliability, cost‑efficiency, and usability.
• Contribute to internal design standards and best practices documentation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Conduct yourself in accordance with Horwitz core values: Safe, Accountable, Professional, Motivated, Can Do, and Curious.
• Get better every day.

Skills and Abilities

• Understanding of HVAC and mechanical systems integration.
• Familiarity with construction drawings, control sequences, and submittal reviews.
• Proficiency with control programming, scripting languages, and logic‑based platforms.
• Knowledge of industrial protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, and Ethernet/IP.
• Working knowledge of MS Office Suite; experience with Visio and AutoCAD preferred.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks across simultaneous projects in a deadline‑driven environment.

Education and Experience

• 2 years of experience in the Building Automation or Controls industry.
• Technical degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering preferred.
• Certifications in controls platforms (e.g., Tridium, Johnson Controls, Siemens) preferred.
• Experience with Visio and CAD drawing tools required.

Travel Requirements

• Regular travel to local client sites.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.