Building Automation Systems Technician

Building Automation Systems Technician

About the Opportunity

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

JOB SUMMARY

The University Facilities Department has energy management controls installed in approximately 7 million square feet of space. The proper control of equipment and the management of consumption is the backbone of all University operations. The Building Automation System Technician (BAS) Technicians assess, maintain, modify, and adjust new and existing large- scale automated temperature control, facilities management, and other automation and data acquisition systems to sustain building operations in normal and unusual conditions. Technicians are skilled not only in use of trade tools and testing devices, but also in software development and applications tools used in programming and analyzing systems. Technicians identify, analyze, and resolve more complex system performance issues and provide input for future planning. Technicians also refer to architectural/engineering drawings and create as-built drawings as necessary. Staff members at this level interact with other skilled service trade staff members, vendors, and contractors to explain procedures, interpret system operations, and to provide input and direction on newly constructed or upgraded system designs. They provide training and assist less experienced technicians in gaining trade-based knowledge

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• A high school diploma or equivalent, or the math and language skill set equivalent to that of a high school graduate.
  
• Candidates must have skills and knowledge normally associated with completion of a formal on-the-job training program and/or at least five years of experience in HVAC/R, Stationary Engineering, or related discipline applicable to the Building Systems Technician position.
  
• A skill set commensurate with journeyman level work in automatic temperature control and energy management is required.
  
• Experience using a building automation system such as Andover Continuum, Alerton Compass, Schneider Electric EcoStruxure, or Niagara Tridium software, hardware, and programming.
  
• Working knowledge of computer and microcomputer hardware and software used in building automation systems or formal training or experience in the configuration and programming of Programmable Logic Controllers or experience programming in an interpreted or a compiled programming language such as BASIC, C, JAVA, LISP or Python or scripted languages such as JavaScript, PHP, or VBScript.
  
• Use of trade tools and testing and measuring devices to troubleshoot a wide range of mechanical and controls problems.
  
• Ability to read blueprints, sketches, O&M Manuals, and diagrams; interpret oral instructions to install and troubleshoot required work.
  
• Work with outside vendors when necessary to perform repairs, communication integration and other tasks as necessary.
  
• Ability to work effectively, either independently or in a team environment in both routine and emergency situations.
  
• Possess a working knowledge of personal computers and basic applications. Demonstrated proficiency in use of Microsoft Office applications.
  
• A valid state-of-residence driver's license is required. Applicants will be subject to a driving record evaluation and background investigation.
  

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES

1) BUILDING AUTOMATION IMPROVEMENTS AND OPTIMIZATON

• Modify programming, install, and maintain BAS, mechanical, and lighting control systems, and monitor influences on the system that may affect operational efficiency.
  
• Develop operating programs, determine parameters to be monitored, identify optimal monitoring/input devices and appropriate device locations in the system.
  
• Participate in commissioning new and renovated systems to ensure design intent is achieved.
  
• Modify pre-programmed system control routines (e.g., stopping nonessential equipment, longer or shorter run times, earlier or later start-up or shutdown of system) to meet changing requirements.
  
• Respond to special requirements for system modifications to meet operational needs.
  
• Participate in Indoor Air Quality monitoring and related surveys.
  

2) BUILDING AUTOMATION SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

• Troubleshoot and repair digital and pneumatic controls for building automation system components using existing documentation and create new control circuits and drawings when necessary.
  
• Respond to operational outages arising from mechanical and control problems.
  
• Install and configure application specific controllers which includes mapping of field input and output devices.
  
• Determine the compatibility of electrical, electronic, mechanical, and pneumatic devices (e.g., temperature sensors, flow switches, power supplies, and cables) with existing automatic temperature control, automated facilities management, and fire alarm systems.
  
• Modify programs, control points, alarms, set points and operational sequences.
  
• Assist in mechanical and electrical system operational control design and implementation.
  
• Document poorly performing mechanical systems related to extreme weather conditions and develop solutions to return the systems to automatic control
  
• Perform ultrasonic flow tests, airflow measurement, infrared equipment /systems review to building mechanical systems. Document findings to generate a plan for optimizing systems.
  

3) INTERNAL STAFF SUPPORT

• Interface with other skilled service trade personnel, security, or environmental health and safety staff to assess existing systems.
  
• Function as an authoritative trades resource to other service organizations at the Laboratory and staff technicians-in-training.
  
• Inspect renovations and modifications installed by contractors to ensure compliance with specifications.
  
• Maintain and update database, diagrams, prints, drawings, and schematics of system expansions and modifications.
  
• Provide informal training in the daily functions and operations of automatic temperature control and energy management programs.
  

Position Type

Facilities

Additional Information

Northeastern University is an equal opportunity employer, seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff. Northeastern values and celebrates diversity in all its forms and strives to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

To learn more about Northeastern University's commitment and support of diversity and inclusion, please see www.northeastern.edu/diversity.


To apply, visit https://northeastern.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/careers/job/Boston-MA-Main-Campus/Building-Automation-Systems-Technician_R107469 jeid-abf1aab8d12d4843bc03a9a35908dc03