Controls Lead Systems Specialist

Johnson Controls • Milwaukie, OR

4d • $75,800 - $104,000

About The Position

The Controls Lead Systems Specialist serves as the on-site project leader for assigned HVAC controls projects, guiding work through the full project lifecycle—from design and programming to commissioning, training, and closeout. The role balances technical delivery, customer satisfaction, financial performance, and safety.

The specialist coordinates project teams, customers, vendors, and subcontractors; oversees control-system design, installation, commissioning, and documentation; and manages scope, schedules, costs, billings, and project closeout. The role also provides technical coaching and customer training, supports warranty execution, and ensures that work meets applicable requirements and safety standards.

Requirements

• Technical Associate’s Degree with two years of field experience, or four years of equivalent related field experience in the HVAC industry.
• Hands-on experience in systems design and commissioning of digital HVAC controls systems.
• Ability to communicate technical material clearly to a non-technical audience.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Nice To Haves

• Strong personal computer skills.
• Knowledge of control theory and HVAC systems.
• Knowledge of project accounting, costing principles, and contracting.

Responsibilities

• Lead on-site execution of assigned HVAC controls projects from start to finish.
• Perform or coordinate hardware design, system programming, installation coordination, system and network commissioning, and project closeout.
• Manage project costs, billings, collections, and overall financial performance.
• Track scope changes, field directives, schedule impacts, and change orders, and support related project documentation.
• Communicate with customers throughout planning, execution, commissioning, and handover.
• Direct subcontractors, electrical installers, technicians, designers, and administrative support as needed.
• Coordinate selection, ordering, budgeting, and delivery schedules for project materials.
• Work with vendors, suppliers, and mechanical and electrical subcontractors to secure pricing and availability.
• Oversee panel and field device coordination and confirm installation aligns with Johnson Controls literature and project requirements.
• Complete controller loading, device verification, commissioning, and validation of system functionality.
• Prepare as-built records, commissioning documentation, project billings, and monthly cost reports.
• Coach, mentor, and provide technical support to System Technicians, Electrical Installers, System Designers, and subcontractors.
• Deliver site-specific training for owner/operators and provide manuals and supporting documentation.
• Build and maintain relationships with contractors, clients, consultants, and subcontractors, and support project progress meetings.
• Ensure work complies with state, local, and federal requirements and safety standards.
• Support warranty execution and distribute warranty documentation upon substantial completion.
• Manage scope, schedule, cost, quality, and customer expectations with accountability and integrity.
• Coordinate early with customers, field teams, and vendors to address obstacles.
• Communicate technical details clearly to customers, project partners, and subcontractors.
• Use disciplined problem-solving during commissioning and closeout to verify performance and resolve issues.
• Share information and collaborate across functions to support project delivery.
• Learn from field conditions, track project results, and apply lessons learned to future execution.
• Prioritize safety and ethical work practices throughout project delivery.

Benefits

• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time, including 15 days of vacation in the first year.
• 401K.
• Medical, dental, and vision care.
• Extensive product training and on-the-job or cross-training opportunities.
• Competitive bonus plan based on individual, group, and corporate performance.
• Collaborative team environment dedicated to safety through the Zero Harm policy.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree