Application Engineer

Job Title: Application Engineer - IP Networks for HVAC and Building Automation


(BAS ENGINEER)


Location: White Bear Lake, MN (HYBRID - work remote on Mondays & Fridays, and on-site the other days)


Company: Trane


About Us: Trane is a leading provider of HVAC and building automation control products. We are dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency and performance of commercial buildings. As we expand our capabilities, we are seeking a highly skilled Application Engineer with a strong focus on IP networks to join our team.


Position Overview: We are looking for an Application Engineer with a primary focus on IP networks to support our HVAC and building automation control products. This role requires a deep understanding of IT principles, especially network topologies and technologies, with a particular emphasis on BACnet/IP communication protocol and Ethernet networks. The ideal candidate will also play a crucial role in documenting best practices, providing field support, and guiding our sales and operations teams.


Key Responsibilities:

• Technical Expertise:
  • Develop and provide in-depth knowledge of various network topologies, including: star (home run), daisy chain, and ring.
  • Offer guidance on the design and implementation of IP networks, including: the selection of IT hardware/software (routers, switches, ring managers, etc.).
  • Recommend when to use specific technologies (fiber optics, Ethernet, etc.), based on project requirements.
  • Offer guidance on network security protocols, including: firewall configurations, VPNs, VLANs, and secure remote access to BAS networks.
• Documentation and Best Practices:
  • Lead the effort to document current capabilities, best practices, and recommended approaches for IP networks in HVAC and building automation applications.
• Field Support and Training:
  • Field Support: Provide on-site and remote support to field technicians and office personnel for network-related issues within BACnet/IP and other BAS environments. Assist with the deployment, troubleshooting, and optimization of networked systems to ensure seamless operations and minimal downtime.
  • Training: Conduct training for both field and office personnel on best practices for BAS networking, system setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Tailor sessions based on team needs, ensuring practical and relevant skill-building.
  • Content Development: Collaborate with the training department and technical teams to develop comprehensive training materials, documentation, and instructional content. This includes: creating manuals, guides, video tutorials, and presentation materials to support consistent knowledge transfer and upskilling for office and field teams. Ensure all materials are updated regularly to reflect the latest industry standards and company protocols.
• Applications Work and Bench Testing:
  • Conduct applications work and bench testing to ensure the reliability and performance of our products.
• Commercialization and Messaging:
  • Focus on the messaging and commercialization of IP networks, ensuring clear communication of their benefits and requirements to internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Building Automation System experience: Would really like someone who started in the IT world, understands IP networks, but has transitioned and now lives and breathes building automaton. This person will understand what it takes to network, connect, and control building systems (controls, HVAC, lighting, security, etc.) This person will understand the commercial building construction process and have hands-on experience in installing, implementing, and troubleshooting IP networks with end devices that control the HVAC equipment. Ideal work experience would include working for companies, such as: Johnson Controls, Siemens, Honeywell, Automated Logic, Niagara, etc. This person may have been a BAS Technician or an Applications Engineer, who also has IT expertise.

• HVAC Knowledge / IT Expertise:
  • IT expertise with a strong understanding of network topologies and technologies.
  • HVAC expertise with a willingness to learn and fill knowledge gaps, based on company guidance.
  • Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, BACnet/IP, VLANs, firewalls, and VPNs.
  • Familiarity with BAS protocols (BACnet, Modbus, LON) and networking hardware (switches, routers, etc.).
  • Understanding of cybersecurity best practices in building systems .
• Industry Experience:
  • Understanding of the commercial construction and controls contracting process.
  • Ability to provide guidance on the design of IP networks within the context of HVAC and building automation.
• Communication Skills:
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively train and support field personnel.
• Problem-Solving:
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address technical challenges and provide innovative solutions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with ring topology technologies and protocols.
• Familiarity with IT hardware/software used in IP networks for building automation.
• Previous experience in a similar role within the HVAC or building automation industry.