BAS Programmer

American University•Washington, DC

5d•$39 - $45•Onsite

About The Position

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University Department: Energy Management Systems Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Modality: Full On Campus Presence Union: Excluded Job Description: Summary: Reporting to the Building Automation Technician Supervisor, the BAS Programmer serves as the BAS Teams expert in BAS Programming coding/language driving campus’ Building Automation Systems (BAS) and/or software. This role has responsibility for maintaining operating and troubleshooting these systems and requires expertise in control sequences, HVAC operations, analog and digital control systems. This position should have experience and reasonable capacity/capability to evaluate, develop and implement BAS programs. This position supports BAS operations interface with both Vendor and AU IT engineering staff with regard to the quality, integrity and preservation of the programming database and campus BAS maintenance and operations efforts monitoring field conditions, and adjust programs for improved energy efficiency, reliability, and overall system performance. Essential Functions: 1.) Building Automation Systems Programming, Maintenance, and Optimization The BAS Programmer maintains building automation systems (BAS) and programming that control HVAC, energy applications, and specialized equipment. Responsibilities include programming, troubleshooting, and optimizing system logic, alarms, trends, schedules, and reporting using vendor software and manufacturer line code. The role requires expertise in BAS architecture, HVAC systems, analog and digital control systems and general awareness of electrical systems/safety. The incumbent shall have a working understanding of protocols such as BACnet, TCP/IP, SQL, and Modbus. The programmer collaborates with engineers, technicians, energy management teams, and service providers to ensure reliable, secure, and energy-efficient operations. Additional tasks include integrating third-party devices, monitoring network performance with tools like WireShark and BACnet browsers, maintaining system standards and database integrity, and coordinating with OIT for network stability. 2.) Enhancing Campus Energy Performance The BAS Programmer implements energy management strategies through programming and logic that comply with codes, best practices, and departmental policies. These measures include scheduled setbacks, temperature resets, optimum start/stop, load shedding, economization, holiday curtailment, demand response, outdoor air management, and heat recovery. The programmer establishes trends and reporting, collaborates with management to identify optimization opportunities, ensures accurate utility metering, and works with EMS to maintain critical energy conservation systems. 3.) Construction Commissioning and Operational Re-commissioning The programmer reviews project standards, drawings, and specifications to provide guidance aligned with EMS requirements and operational expectations, minimizing impacts on maintenance, repair, and energy efficiency. They monitor and manage system and database modifications during commissioning activities, ensuring controlled access, clear scope, proper backups, and recovery capability when needed. This includes assisting retro-commissioning agents during testing and commissioning and reviewing construction documents and O&M manuals to understand system design. 4.) Customer Interface and Collaboration The BAS Programmer meets regularly with internal staff, campus clients, and project teams to understand operational needs and ensure EMS delivers effective support. They communicate system capabilities, limitations, and requirements in clear technical and non-technical terms to foster mutual understanding and set realistic expectations. The role also involves collaborating with managers to share best practices, leveraging expertise in renewable energy and building intelligence tools, and maintaining strong customer relationships to ensure high service standards. 5.) Training, Documentation, and Industry Development The programmer participates in vendor training and self-study to maintain technical proficiency in controls, HVAC, and energy management applications. They complete all required training and performance goals, maintain an Individual Development Plan (IDP), and document progress in the Performance Management Program (PMP). The role includes mentoring BAS technicians, writing installation and operating documentation, and developing programming applications to integrate complex systems for optimal comfort, energy use, and functionality. Additionally, the programmer maintains equipment records, generates data for deferred maintenance analysis, and monitors industry trends to evaluate new products and participate in working groups.