CMS Controls - Ohio Level 2 Controls Service Technician The Level 2 Controls Service Technician is a seasoned professional responsible for providing advanced service, complex troubleshooting, maintenance, and optimization of Building Automation Systems (BAS) and associated HVAC control systems. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of control logic, network protocols, electrical systems, and complex HVAC operations. The Level 2 technician works with increased autonomy, mentors Level 1 technicians, and serves as a primary technical point of contact for clients, ensuring peak system performance and client satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:
- Advanced System Diagnostics and Troubleshooting:
- Independently diagnose and resolve complex issues within integrated building automation systems, including intermittent faults, network communication problems, and intricate control sequence errors.
- Thoroughly analyze and interpret control logic, programming, and graphics within various BAS platforms to pinpoint root causes of system malfunctions.
- Utilize advanced diagnostic tools and software to troubleshoot communication protocols (e.g., BACnet IP/MSTP, Modbus, LON, proprietary protocols) and network infrastructure.
- Perform comprehensive troubleshooting of mechanical HVAC systems, including central plant equipment (e.g., chillers, boilers, cooling towers), VFDs, and complex air/water distribution systems, leveraging in-depth knowledge of mechanical and electrical wire schematics.
- System Optimization and Commissioning Support:
- Implement strategies to optimize BAS performance for energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant comfort.
- Perform and verify system calibrations, functional tests, and sequence of operation validations.
- Assist with commissioning new BAS installations or system upgrades, ensuring all components operate as designed and specified.
- Identify opportunities for system enhancements or upgrades and communicate findings to project management or sales.
- Programming and Configuration:
- Modify and create basic to intermediate control programs and sequences of operation within various DDC (Direct Digital Control) platforms.
- Configure and troubleshoot network settings for controllers and field devices.
- Make minor graphic modifications or additions to BAS user interfaces.
- Electrical Work:
- Demonstrate strong proficiency in working with low, medium, and line voltage electrical circuits in a commercial environment.
- Safely perform advanced electrical troubleshooting, including motor controls, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and complex power distribution for control panels.
- Ensure all electrical work complies with NEC and local codes.
- Customer Interaction and Relationship Management:
- Serve as a primary technical contact for clients, providing clear, concise, and professional explanations of complex technical issues and solutions.
- Build and maintain strong customer relationships through exceptional service and proactive communication.
- Train clients on basic system operation and functionality as needed.
- Mentorship and Documentation:
- Provide technical guidance and on-the-job training to Level 1 Controls Service Technicians.
- Maintain meticulous and comprehensive documentation of all service activities, including detailed troubleshooting steps, resolutions, configuration changes, and system performance data.
- Contribute to the development of best practices and standard operating procedures for service operations.
Basic Requirements:
- Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of direct experience as a Controls Service Technician, HVAC Service Technician with strong controls exposure, or a similar field role.
- In-depth Controls Knowledge: Strong understanding of DDC control logic, programming fundamentals (function blocks, scripts), and various control signal types (analog, digital, serial). Ability to interpret and modify complex sequences of operation.
- Advanced Mechanical HVAC Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of commercial HVAC systems, including central plant operations, air handlers, terminal units, and refrigeration cycles. Proficient in reading and applying complex mechanical and electrical wire schematics.
- Proficient Electrical Experience: Strong experience and proficiency working safely with low (24VAC/DC), medium (120V/277V), and line voltage (up to 480V) electrical systems in commercial settings, including troubleshooting motor controls and VFDs.
- Networking Fundamentals: Solid understanding of IP networking principles, including subnetting, routing, and troubleshooting common network issues within a BAS environment.
- Software Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to navigate, configure, and troubleshoot within at least one major BAS platform (e.g., Tridium Niagara Framework, Distech, Honeywell, Johnson Controls, Siemens, Schneider Electric).
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly to non-technical audiences.
- Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
- Valid driver's license.
- Ability to perform physical duties such as lifting up to 50 lbs., climbing ladders, working in confined spaces, and varied environmental conditions.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in HVAC, Controls, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Specific BAS platform certifications (e.g., Niagara N4 Certified Professional).
- Relevant industry certifications (e.g., EPA Universal Refrigerant, Master Electrician License, ASHRAE, CEM).
- Experience with system integration protocols (e.g., BACnet, Modbus, LON).
- Proven experience in energy management or building optimization.
- Experience with project commissioning and startup procedures.
- OSHA 30-hour construction safety certification.
Skills and Abilities:
- Independent Problem Solver: Ability to work autonomously on complex issues with minimal supervision.
- Leadership and Mentorship: Capable of guiding and training junior technicians.
- Customer Focus: Dedicated to achieving high levels of customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships.
- Adaptability: Thrives in a dynamic environment, adapting to new technologies and challenging situations.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous in diagnosing, repairing, and documenting system performance.
- Strategic Thinking: Able to consider the long-term implications of service actions on overall system health and client objectives.
Compensation: $40.00-60.00 / hourly