Senior Controls Engineer

Vertical Mechanical Group Inc•Sterling, VA

20d

About The Position

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is seeking an experienced Senior Controls Engineer to join its Controls, Commissioning, and Startup team. The role designs and engineers building automation systems (BAS) and low-voltage controls systems, from initial submittals through installation and field support. The engineer works closely with field technicians, programmers, and project teams to resolve technical challenges and support successful project delivery. The position is based across a mix of office and jobsites in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region. It reports to the Director of Commissioning & Controls. The engineer may also support estimating teams, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to engineering standards and best practices.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Building Systems Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related field; equivalent controls engineering experience will be considered.
Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in building automation or controls engineering, including shop drawing development.
Strong knowledge of DDC controllers, BACnet MS/TP, BACnet/IP, and Modbus RTU/TCP protocols.
Experience with Lynxspring, Johnson Controls Facility Explorer, and Distech Controls systems.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Visio for controls drafting.
Strong understanding of low-voltage control circuits, wiring practices, and BAS networking.
Knowledge of HVAC systems, including air handling units, VAV systems, central plants, DOAS, VRF, and hydronic systems.
Ability to interpret mechanical, electrical, and controls drawings, specifications, and sequences of operation.
Familiarity with ASHRAE Guideline 36, ASHRAE 135 (BACnet), and applicable NEC requirements.
Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and resolve technical challenges.
Valid driver's license and ability to travel to jobsites throughout the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region.
Takes ownership of engineering projects from start to finish and develops practical solutions to technical challenges.
Pays close attention to detail and ensures accuracy in engineering deliverables.
Communicates effectively with project managers, technicians, programmers, and field teams.
Works independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
Stays organized and manages multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Demonstrates reliability, accountability, and a commitment to safety.

Nice To Haves

Experience with the Niagara Framework.
AutoCAD experience.
Experience mentoring junior engineers or developing engineering standards.

Responsibilities

Develop controls shop drawings and submittals in Microsoft Visio, including system schematics, wiring diagrams, network risers, panel layouts, points lists, bills of materials, and sequences of operation.
Review mechanical drawings, project specifications, and equipment submittals to determine controls scope, point counts, and integration requirements.
Select and apply DDC controllers, I/O modules, sensors, actuators, valves, and network devices based on project requirements.
Design BAS network architecture using BACnet MS/TP, BACnet/IP, Modbus RTU/TCP, device addressing, and third-party equipment integration.
Apply knowledge of Lynxspring, Johnson Controls Facility Explorer, and Distech Controls platforms to develop solutions.
Design low-voltage power and control circuits, including transformer sizing, power distribution, voltage drop, and safety interlocks.
Identify and resolve design conflicts, equipment limitations, and sequence-of-operation challenges.
Prepare RFIs to clarify project specifications, design intent, and technical requirements.
Address submittal review comments and revise engineering drawings through approval.
Provide technical guidance to BAS programmers, startup technicians, and field installers during installation, testing, and commissioning.
Prepare as-built drawings and assist with project closeout documentation.
Support estimating teams with point counts, equipment selections, and technical scope reviews when needed.
Mentor junior engineers and contribute to engineering standards, templates, and best practices.