About the position
Design Validation Controls Engineer I is an introductory role that's responsible for working with the controls team to develop and execute test plans and look for opportunities of improvement for advanced refrigeration and HVAC systems. Test plans are primarily for new control sequences but may be validating all types of field solutions to implement into production. Controls are developed using a knowledge of electrical, commercial HVAC principles, and industry standards. Programming is written with function block graphical logic in programmable logic controllers (PLC). This role requires coordinating across multiple departments for availability of units, test fixtures, or other equipment required to complete test plans. Testing may occur on production units, computer simulations, lab psychrometric chambers, or field units (with remote access). You will be expected to develop knowledge over time on all aspects of advanced refrigeration and heavy commercial HVAC control sequences to recognize abnormal or unintended operation. These control sequences include energy recovery, variable compressor control, economizers, heat pumps, modulating dampers, building pressurization, and multiple types of modulating heat.
Responsibilities
- Testing and validating controls, mechanical, or electrical designs that are in development.
- Work on a team to develop comprehensive test plans.
- Identifying gaps in existing documentation, such as sequence of operation, point lists, etc.
- Coordinate with production, engineering lab, or field technicians on units that have been identified as pilot or test units.
- Provide feedback on designs and control logic.
- Review PLC logic (function block graphical programming).
- Develop solutions or feedback to bugs or areas of improvement for PLC logic.
- Stay up to date on current production unit designs and expectations for mechanical, refrigeration, and electrical systems.
- Develop some working knowledge of advanced HVAC systems, such as psychrometrics, DX refrigeration systems, energy recovery, fans, etc.
- Work with senior engineers for long term development.
- Optional: Travel (up to 25%) to jobsites/test facilities to diagnose field issues, testing, or continuous education opportunities.
Requirements
- Must be able to meet safety/physical requirements.
- Some knowledge of HVAC or refrigeration systems.
- Experience working in a manufacturing or field environment, and experience using basic hand tools.
- Either possess an EPA 608 Certification, or willing to become certified within 6 months of starting.
Nice-to-haves
- Ability to type at least 20 words per minute, or willing to learn within the first 6 months of starting.
- Experience using computers and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word, etc.).
- Technical degree, certification, or higher-level education relating to HVAC, controls, refrigeration, or related field.
- Experience with controls, electrical, or related field.
- HVAC or manufacturing experience.
Benefits
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- 9 paid holidays
- Yearly bonuses
- Health, dental, & vision insurance
- 401k company match
- Monthly accrued vacation
- Employee assistance programs
