Position Summary
Gulf States Automation is seeking a motivated and technically skilled Controls Engineer to design, program, commission, and support Building Automation System (BAS) projects. The Controls Engineer works closely with project managers, technicians, customers, and subcontractors to deliver high-quality automation solutions that improve building performance, occupant comfort, and energy efficiency.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys solving technical challenges, collaborating with customers, and seeing projects through from design to successful startup.
Primary Responsibilities
Engineering & Design
- Design Building Automation System (BAS) control solutions.
- Develop control drawings, wiring diagrams, network architecture, and submittal packages.
- Create points lists, sequences of operation, and equipment schedules.
- Review project specifications and mechanical drawings.
- Select appropriate control hardware and field devices.
Programming
- Program HVAC control systems and controllers.
- Develop graphics, alarms, trends, schedules, and reports.
- Configure supervisory controllers and front-end software.
- Integrate third-party systems using industry-standard protocols including:
- BACnet
- Modbus
- LonWorks (preferred)
- MQTT (preferred)
- Optimize system performance and energy efficiency.
Commissioning
- Perform system startup and commissioning.
- Verify sequences of operation.
- Test control logic.
- Perform point-to-point checkout.
- Troubleshoot hardware, software, and communication issues.
- Support field technicians during installation.
Customer Support
- Provide technical support to customers and internal teams.
- Train end users on BAS operation.
- Respond to service requests and assist with troubleshooting.
- Build strong customer relationships through professionalism and responsiveness.
Project Support
- Collaborate with Project Managers to maintain project schedules.
- Participate in project meetings.
- Document engineering changes.
- Maintain accurate project documentation.
- Assist with project closeout documentation.
Continuous Improvement
- Recommend improvements to engineering standards.
- Develop reusable programming libraries and templates.
- Stay current with emerging BAS technologies.
- Participate in technical training and professional development.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field; or equivalent industry experience
- 3+ years of Building Automation or Controls experience preferred
- Experience with HVAC systems and mechanical equipment
- Knowledge of:
- DDC Controls
- HVAC sequences
- Control theory
- Electrical schematics
- Networking fundamentals
- Strong troubleshooting skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Valid driver's license
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with one or more of the following:
- Automated Logic
- WebCTRL
- Siemens
- Johnson Controls
- Honeywell
- Tridium Niagara
- Distech
- Schneider Electric
- Delta Controls
Knowledge of:
- BACnet/IP
- BACnet MS/TP
- Modbus RTU/TCP
- IP Networking
- SQL databases
- Virtualization
- Cybersecurity for BAS
- Energy management systems
Technical Skills
- HVAC Controls
- BAS Programming
- Control Logic Development
- Graphics Development
- System Integration
- Commissioning
- Troubleshooting
- Networking
- Reading Mechanical Drawings
- Reading Electrical Schematics
- Microsoft Office Suite
Soft Skills
- Strong problem-solving ability
- Customer-focused mindset
- Attention to detail
- Excellent organizational skills
- Ability to work independently
- Team-oriented
- Strong written and verbal communication
- Positive attitude with a willingness to learn
Physical Requirements
- Ability to climb ladders.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in mechanical rooms, rooftops, and construction environments.
- Ability to travel to customer sites as needed.
- Occasional overnight travel may be required.
Success in This Role
A successful Controls Engineer at Gulf States Automation:
- Delivers projects on time and within budget.
- Produces reliable, maintainable programming.
- Solves technical issues efficiently.
- Communicates proactively with customers and project teams.
- Supports field personnel with a collaborative attitude.
- Maintains high standards of documentation and quality.
- Continuously seeks opportunities to improve system performance and customer satisfaction.
Why Join Gulf States Automation?
At Gulf States Automation, you'll work with a team of experienced professionals delivering innovative building automation solutions across commercial and industrial facilities. We value technical excellence, integrity, collaboration, continuous learning, and exceptional customer service. Our engineers play a key role in helping customers operate smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable buildings.
