Automation Systems Engineer

ACCO Engineered Systems•Pleasanton, CA

About The Position

The Automation Systems Engineer applies technical knowledge and experience to develop HVAC/BAS databases and programs and create custom graphics for assigned projects. The role requires proficiency in building automation controls, mechanical systems, programming, field experience, and industry-standard software and protocols. Although it is a non-field role, the engineer may support pre-functional and functional testing remotely from an office. The engineer develops functional software test scripts based on approved hardware designs and sequences of operation for field teams to validate code against contract requirements. The engineer supports design reviews, software development, project coordination, commissioning, troubleshooting, system performance analysis, and project turnover. Work includes developing and optimizing HVAC control strategies using protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, and LonWorks; validating systems through design reviews, peer evaluations, and simulations; and supporting integrations with third-party products and systems. The role also manages assigned project time and budgets, communicates project status using Slack and PORT operations tools, follows company programming and cybersecurity standards, and participates in applicable safety programs.

Requirements

Associate degree in a technical field or 2–5 years of related building automation systems work experience.
Proficiency with industry-standard programming languages, protocols, and software tools, including BACnet, Modbus, LonWorks, and Niagara Framework.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Windows, and file structures.
Highly organized, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet schedules in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work independently and autonomously and take ownership of assigned tasks.
Strong critical-thinking skills and attention to detail.
Valid driver’s license.
Ability to perform work that supports high customer satisfaction and high-quality delivery.
Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to sit and stand, use a computer keyboard and telephone, and talk and hear regularly.
Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force constantly.
Ability to climb up and down ladders frequently.
Ability to navigate construction-site conditions and follow site safety requirements and company policies.
Demonstrated proactivity and initiative, perseverance, insight, engagement, teamwork, big-picture thinking, motivation and dedication, technical curiosity and willingness to learn, and problem-solving ability.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, computer science, or a related field.
Relevant certifications in HVAC controls programming or building automation systems.
Basic knowledge of TCP/IP network structure and web navigation.

Responsibilities

Support design engineering development and review to ensure hardware devices meet the intent of the systems sequence of operations.
Lead and perform software development, including control-system databases, programs, and graphics for assigned projects.
Coordinate with Project Managers, Engineers, and Field Technicians to complete projects on schedule, within budget, and to specifications.
Collaborate as needed with mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and contractors to integrate HVAC controls programming with building systems.
Support initial point-to-point commissioning remotely from the office when needed.
Support remote troubleshooting of local and wide-area network issues at project sites.
Use computer hardware and software to support or perform pre-functional testing of system software against the design sequence of operations.
Support remote functional testing, including standard, third-party, LEED, Title 24, and Guideline 36 testing as required.
Develop knowledge and training to program and support Sunbelt Controls OEM product lines.
Work with third-party integrations involving other vendors’ products, systems, and protocols as necessary.
Help identify, troubleshoot, and resolve HVAC controls issues, including software bugs, communication errors, and hardware malfunctions.
Analyze system performance, identify inefficiencies, and recommend corrective actions.
Develop, customize, and optimize HVAC control strategies using industry-standard protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, and LonWorks.
Conduct design reviews, peer evaluations, and simulations to validate system performance, reliability, and safe operation of mechanical systems.
Support commissioning-agent coordination meetings for programming sequences and functional test script development as required.
Support project turnover from construction to the Service team, including program and sequence review and database backups, as needed.
Assist Design Engineers in validating sequences of operation against design-build and contract requirements.
Manage assigned project time commitments and budgets and regularly provide status feedback.
Communicate work status, progress, issues, obstacles, and information needs to project team members using Slack project communications and PORT operations tools.
Follow Sunbelt programming standards and guidelines developed by technical committees.
Track work progress and cost-to-complete through operational processes and tools.
Follow company policies, standards, and solutions for implemented cybersecurity measures.
Practice safe work habits and participate in office and project-specific safety requirements.
Perform other duties assigned by department or corporate leadership.