Building Automation / HVAC Controls Technician

Job Summary:

The Building Management Systems (BMS) Technician is responsible for the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of building automation systems that control HVAC, mechanical, and related building systems. This role ensures that building systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably to support occupant comfort, energy efficiency, and operational goals.

Who we are:

Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is the first technological research university in the United States. We bring creativity, science, and technology together to address society's greatest challenges. We cultivate exceptional problem-solvers by immersing them in a culture of rigorous inquiry, disciplined practice, and hands-on application. Our strategic plan, RPI Forward, charts a pioneering course for the next era of RPI. Explore the RPI Forward plan. ↗︎

Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, RPI is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world. 

With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, RPI offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School/Equivalent diploma or equivalent
• Five (5) years of related experience
• Valid US driver’s license

Relevant combinations of education, training and experience may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in electronics design or a closely related field 

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of HVAC systems, control sequences, and mechanical equipment
• Experience troubleshooting controllers, sensors, actuators, and control networks
• Ability to read control blueprints, drawings, wiring diagrams, and sequences of operation
• Proficiency with computer-based BMS software and basic networking concepts
• Strong communication and documentation skills
• Ability to anticipate and solve problems
• Excellent client relations skills
• Knowledge of continuity of operation plans comprehensive emergency management plans and ability to produce results under pressure situations
• Working knowledge of and experience using two or more types of facilities automation systems
• Working knowledge of building energy control systems and ability to perform energy trending analysis
• Knowledge of control system design and programming
• Knowledge of electrical and mechanical/HVAC trades and system components
• Knowledge of industry standards for building system maintenance
• Use of hand and portable power tools, wiring diagrams, wire gauge, and electrical components
• Ability to work independently or as a team member and to provide excellent customer service
• Ability to identify and resolve complex problems
• Self-starter: sees what a job requires and does it
• Remains calm, and able to respond and work quickly in high pressure/emergency situations
• Must be flexible in work style; able to work effectively with project representatives and workers from all fields and levels
• Continuous learner, i.e., keeps current with technological changes

Representative Job Duties:

• Monitor and operate building management systems controlling HVAC and mechanical equipment.
• Respond to system alarms, service requests, and comfort issues.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and calibrate BMS components including sensors, actuators, controllers, and networks.
• Adjust control sequences, setpoints, schedules, and trends to optimize performance and efficiency.
• Support preventive maintenance, commissioning, and system upgrades.
• Coordinate with maintenance staff, engineers, and controls vendors.
• Maintain accurate system documentation and records.
• Perform work in compliance with safety standards, SOPs, and applicable codes.
• Participates in Controls Shop on call rotation.

Shift:

Business Hours with weekends or evenings occasionally required

Travel:

Local travel between campus locations only

Driving:

Driving a Rensselaer vehicle for non-passenger use

Starting Salary/Rate:

Expected hiring range: $34.00–$40.00

Pay transparency disclosure: The selected candidate’s salary will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the final candidate’s qualifications, experience, education and other job-related credentials. This hiring range is provided as RPI's good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.

Application instructions:

Follow the on-screen prompts to create a brief online profile. Please be ready to upload your resume and cover letter.

If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu.

Job Posted Date:

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Total Compensation and Benefits Information:

RPI’s Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).