Building Automation Systems Field Technician III – Ashburn, VA
Smart Tech Contracting delivers turnkey BAS & EPMS solutions for mission-critical colocation and hyperscale data centers operating at national program scale. As a Master Systems Integrator (MSI), we unify controls construction (DDC, PLC, SCADA) with software engineering, optimized graphics/UI standards, and program-level governance. Our teams thrive in high-stakes environments where quality control and uptime matter, schedules are compressed, and coordination is everything.
About the role
The Building Automation Systems Field Technician III will install building automation systems, collaborate with other installers, support programmers, and take on increased responsibility for assigned field tasks, issue resolution, and project communication. This role provides technical support to execute project start-up, installation, testing, commissioning, and closeout of building automation systems software integration projects in industrial, commercial, and mission-critical/technology sectors.
You will work with design engineers, construction contractors, equipment vendors, and client staff to ensure proper operation and acceptance of automation and software solutions. You may work independently or under immediate supervision and may serve as lead on routine projects of limited scope.
Responsibilities
- Installation and Installation Coordination of BAS/HVAC Controls Systems (35%)
- Install and wire BAS controllers and field devices
- Install and terminate low voltage cables
- Support start-up and cutovers of panels and systems
- Coordinate assigned activities with subcontractors, vendors, and construction trades as needed
- Organize job site areas including material logistics, tool storage, and security
- Provide technical information and safety guidance for routine site activities
- Participate in daily and weekly meetings, providing updates on installation progress
- Support development and execution of additional services through change orders
- Develop or assist in developing Methods of Procedure (MOPs) for site activities
- Provide input to the project team on field conditions and installation progress
- Startup, Commissioning, and Closeout of BAS/HVAC Controls Systems (45%)
- Support pre-functional and functional testing
- Execute troubleshooting of BAS systems, including corrective actions for routine and moderately complex issues
- Participate in commissioning efforts with external stakeholders
- Analyze system operation and verify consistency with contracted scope of work
- Perform QA/QC of BAS and integrated systems using BAS software tools
- Support installation inspections and closeout duties for customer acceptance
- Provide markups for shop drawings to document as-built conditions
- Review system trends, alarms, and point data to support troubleshooting and closeout
- Identify routine field issues, document corrective actions, and track assigned items
- Reporting and Communication (15%)
- Support project communication and reporting, including daily site updates and safety reports
- Document and track issues and out-of-scope efforts
- Communicate regularly with project managers, field teams, subcontractors, and commissioning agents
- Escalate project risks, blockers, or technical issues to project leadership
- Maintain clear documentation of assigned tasks, completed work, and open items
- Engineering Support and Business Development (5%)
- Assist project teams with field information for estimating and takeoffs for proposals
- Attend project bid walks and engineering surveys for retrofit projects as needed
- Support BAS audits and related reports
- Complete assigned tasks and deliverables on time and on budget
- Perform other related duties as assigned
Requirements
- Knowledge of HVAC, mechanical, and electrical systems and materials
- Knowledge of controls wiring, relay logic, and associated materials
- Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams) and strong organizational skills
- Ability to leverage AI and emerging technologies to streamline workflows and optimize processes
- Ability to work successfully in a remote environment with effective communication and self-motivation
- Ability to interpret AE construction drawings, BAS shop drawings, manufacturers' wiring diagrams, and standards documentation
- Ability to follow company and site safety requirements
- Strong analytical and documentation skills for reports and correspondence
- Effective communication skills, both oral and written, including technical and non-technical information
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- Ability to provide direction to others on assigned tasks without full project responsibility
- Ability to achieve certification for NFPA 70E and/or OSHA training as required
- Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
Physical Demands
The following physical demands are required to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities.
- Frequently manipulate, move, or grasp small parts, devices, or tools
- Frequently remain in a stationary position
- Frequently move through various environments (e.g., low/high temperatures, outdoor elements, tight spaces)
- Frequently descend/ascend stairs and ladders to access equipment
- Ability to operate a lift and obtain/provide lift certification
- Occasionally position self under or over equipment
- Occasionally move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
Travel
- Primarily supports local and regional project needs, with most travel within the employee’s home market or surrounding area
- Must be based within a reasonable commuting distance of the assigned work region
- Occasional overnight travel may be required depending on project demands or client needs
- Effective May 7, 2025, a valid REAL ID (or acceptable alternative, such as a passport) is required for domestic air travel
- Travel may involve transportation by car or plane depending on destination and business need
Qualifications
- Associate’s degree or Technical Certificate in Building Automation Systems, Mechanical/Electrical Technology, or a closely related field OR
- Two years of experience with hands-on installation, testing, validation, and troubleshooting of controls infrastructure PLUS
- Minimum of two additional years of experience with installation, testing, validation, and troubleshooting of controls infrastructure
Benefits
- Choice of comprehensive medical plans (including PPO-style plans and HDHP with HSA option)
- Dental and vision plans
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits extended to spouse/domestic partner and dependent children up to age 26
- 401k with company match and self-directed brokerage account option
- PTO, including additional paid time off during the last week of the year
- Company-paid life insurance for employees and eligible dependents
- Short- and long-term disability, and AD&D coverage
- Professional development opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and professional licensing assistance
- Paid parental leave after one year of employment
Pay
The pay range for this role is $78,750 – $95,812.50 USD per year.