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, work 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 support proper operation and acceptance of automation and software solutions. This role 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 assigned job site areas including material logistics, inventory, tools storage, and security
  • Provide technical information and safety guidance for routine activities on site
  • Participate in daily and weekly meetings and provide updates on assigned installation activities
  • Support the development and execution of additional services through change orders
  • Develop or assist in developing Methods of Procedure (MOPs) for site activities
  • Provide input to project team on field conditions, installation progress, and potential RFIs
• 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, work with project team to demonstrate system operation, and verify consistency with contracted scope
  • Perform QA/QC of BAS and integrated systems using BAS software tools
  • Support installation inspections and other closeout duties to ensure customer acceptance
  • Provide markups for shop drawings to document as-built conditions
  • Review basic system trends, alarms, and point data to support troubleshooting and closeout
  • Identify routine field issues, document corrective actions, and track assigned items through completion
• Reporting and Communication (15%)
  • Support project communication and reporting including daily site updates, safety reporting, and progress 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 when needed
  • 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 and communication as assigned
• Complete assigned tasks and deliverables on time and on budget
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Requirements

• Intermediate-level knowledge of HVAC, mechanical, and electrical systems and materials
• Intermediate-level knowledge of controls wiring, relay logic, and associated materials
• Skilled at using MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams) with exceptional organizational skills for file management
• Ability to leverage AI and emerging technologies to streamline workflows and optimize operational processes
• Ability to work successfully in a remote environment through effective communication, self-motivation, and resourcefulness
• Ability to interpret AE construction drawings, BAS shop drawings, manufacturers' wiring diagrams, standards documentation, submittals, and product data sheets
• Ability to follow company and site safety requirements
• Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports, and correspondence
• Effective oral and written communication skills, including technical and non-technical information
• Ability to communicate directly with clients and serve as primary point of contact when needed
• Ability to work under pressure and meet close deadlines
• Ability to provide direction to others on assigned tasks or routine work of limited scope
• Ability to achieve certification for NFPA70E and/or OSHA training as required
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

Physical Demands

The following physical demands must be met to successfully 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 required to remain in a stationary position
• Frequently move through office, critical facility, and other environments (e.g., low/high temperatures, outdoor elements, tight/confined 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 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 years of additional experience with installation, testing, validation, and troubleshooting of controls infrastructure

Benefits

• Choice of comprehensive medical plans (including two PPO-style plans and a HDHP with HSA option)
• Dental and vision plans
• Comprehensive 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 coverage for employees and eligible dependents
• Short- and long-term disability, 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.

CO, CA, IL, NY, WA, and Washington DC residents only: In accordance with state law, the range provided is a reasonable estimate of base compensation. Actual amount may differ based on non-discriminatory factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and location.