Foreman - Controls/Start Up HVAC

Modigent•Apopka, FL

About The Position

Foreman – Start Up (Controls DX Focus) VMG Mechanical, a Modigent Company Job Overview The Start Up Foreman reports directly to the Project Superintendent and to deliver exceptional quality, safe system commissioning, and outstanding customer service on commercial plumbing, mechanical, and HVAC projects. This hands-on leadership role involves close collaboration with project leadership to align with company goals, ensure profitable outcomes, and maintain high standards of safety, efficiency, and system performance. The Foreman oversees seamless project close-out, including mechanical startups, Direct Digital Controls (DDC) / Direct Expansion (DX) system integration, testing, balancing, programming adjustments, and client handover in ground-up commercial, industrial, and institutional settings.

Requirements

5+ years of relevant experience in mechanical/plumbing/HVAC system startup, commissioning, and/or Direct Digital Controls (DDC) / building automation; journeyman status or ability to obtain required licensing preferred.
Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, sequences of operation, electrical schematics, controls diagrams, and prepare accurate materials lists.
Proven skills in increasing team efficiency while maintaining the highest safety standards at all times.
Hands-on experience with DDC programming, troubleshooting controls issues, calibrating end devices (sensors, actuators, valves), and commissioning DX HVAC equipment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective coordination internally, with clients/subcontractors, and during owner training/handover.
Self-motivated, punctual, and able to multitask with strong follow-through on internal and external commitments.
Professional in appearance, speech, and demeanor.
Valid driver's license required
Ability to work in physically demanding environments and travel to job sites as needed.

Nice To Haves

Experience with government facilities or secure/institutional projects is a plus.
relevant certifications (e.g., OSHA 30, Niagara AX/N4, Tridium, or other BAS certifications; plumbing/HVAC-related credentials) preferred.

Responsibilities

Proactively develop solutions to prevent issues from escalating, particularly in controls sequences, sensor calibration, and system integration, ensuring smooth project execution.
Review projects with the Superintendent and/or Project Manager after equipment procurement (including controls hardware, DDC panels, sensors, actuators, and DX units) and subcontractor assignments.
Conduct physical site surveys alongside the Superintendent to assess conditions, verify controls device locations, and provide written reports to the Project Manager as required.
Perform accurate and timely material takeoffs in coordination with the Superintendent, including controls components, wiring, conduit, and integration materials.
Plan, coordinate, and supervise on-site startup activities, including scheduling, material/equipment control, rentals, daily field operations, and controls programming/setup.
Provide daily job completion percentages and progress updates, including controls system status and any deviations from sequences of operation.
Ensure all site personnel comply with project procedures, company policies, safety requirements (including OSHA standards), and other specifications; document incidents immediately, notify the Project Manager and Superintendent, and recommend/implement corrective actions.
Oversee completion and timely submission of weekly reports to the office, including safety/toolbox talks, preconstruction meetings, production reports, controls checkout documentation, and any project-specific reports (e.g., trend logs, alarm histories).
Conduct detailed job inspections to verify adherence to VMG Mechanical standards; ensure mechanical systems and controls (DDC/DX) are fully prepared for startup; participate in and coordinate startups as needed with contractors, engineers, subcontractors, and owners.
Lead controls-specific commissioning tasks, such as mounting/terminating DDC panels and devices, pulling/terminating wiring, calibrating sensors and actuators, programming sequences of operation, troubleshooting alarms/faults, trending data for performance verification, and integrating with building automation systems for optimal energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
Coordinate with the fabrication shop and controls vendors for production scheduling, deliveries of materials/equipment (e.g., controllers, relays, flow meters), and any field modifications.
Lead the team to increase efficiency, uphold rigorous safety standards, promote a culture of accountability and excellence, and ensure systems meet design intent through functional performance testing and handover documentation.