Building Automation Systems Lead Field Technician - Ashburn, VA

Lead Field Technician Building Automation - IAD

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.

Complex integrations are delivered cleanly, consistently, and fast. Our teams thrive in high-stakes environments where quality control and uptime matters, schedules are compressed, and coordination is everything.

Join us and be part of a team where your voice matters, your work makes an impact, and your growth is a shared priority.

Position Location: Must live in IAD region (Virginia / Washington D.C. area)

Job Summary

The Lead Field Technician will install the building automation systems, work with and direct other installers, work with and support programmers and inform both internal and external clients on project progress. Provides technical support and leadership to plan, schedule and execute project start up, installation and testing, commissioning and closeout of building automation systems software integration projects in industrial, commercial and mission critical / technology sectors.

The Lead Field Technician will work with design engineers, construction contractors, equipment vendors and client staff to ensure proper operation and acceptance of the automation and software solutions.

The Lead Field Technician will receive limited direction on day-to-day work and general instruction on new projects or assignments. Will assist project leadership on automation projects of complex scope. Will work independently or under limited supervision.

This person will communicate and operate in line with organizational goals and values, as well as departmental objectives.

Essential Functions

Installation and Installation Coordination of BAS / HVAC Controls Systems (30%)

• Direct and monitor subcontractors (onsite and offsite) including scheduling, resource management and coordination of construction and start-up services as needed. Construction trades generally include various electrical, mechanical and equipment suppliers.
• Install and wire BAS controllers and field devices
• Install and terminate low voltage cables
• Must be able to organize a job site including material logistics / inventory, tools storage and security
• Provide technical information and safety guidance for activities on site
• Lead installation teams on daily and weekly meetings
• Support the development and execution of additional services through change orders
• Cutover panels and systems in retrofit projects
• Develop Methods of Procedure (MOPs) for site activities
• Provide input to project team on developing RFIs

Startup, Commissioning and Closeout of BAS / HVAC Controls Systems (40%)

• Assist software lead with pre-functional and functional testing
• Execute troubleshooting of BAS systems including corrective actions
• Participate in commissioning efforts with external stakeholders
• Analyze system operation, work with project team to demonstrate system operation and verify consistency with the contracted scope of work
• Perform QA / QC of BAS and integrated systems using BAS software tools
• Provide installation inspections and other closeout duties to ensure customer acceptance
• Provide markups for shop drawings to document asbuilt conditions

Reporting and Communication (20%)

• Project communication and reporting including daily site updates, daily site safety reporting and progress reports
• Document and track issues and out of scope efforts
• Communicate regularly with subcontractors, project managers, clients and commissioning agents on project progress

Engineering Support and Business Development (10%)

• Provide input to project teams on estimating and takeoffs for proposals
• Attend project bid walks
• Attend engineering surveys for retrofit projects
• Attend BAS audits and complete related reports and communication

Completion of Assigned Tasks and Deliverables on Time and on Budget

Performs Other Related Duties as Assigned

Position Requirements (Intermediate Level for All the Following)

• Knowledge of HVAC, mechanical and electrical systems and materials
• Knowledge of controls wiring, relay logic, and associated materials
• Skilled at using MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams), along with exceptional organizational skills for file management
• Skilled in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail
• Ability to work successfully in a remote environment thru effective communication and organizational skills, self-motivation, proactiveness and resourcefulness in a distraction free workspace
• 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
• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form (technical and non-technical information)
• Ability to communicate effectively directly with clients and at times serve as primary point of client contact
• Ability to work under pressure and meet close deadlines
• Ability to effectively plan and delegate the work of others
• Ability to achieve certification for NFPA70E and / or OSHA training as required
• Ability to maintain jobsite and keep it organized
• Organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

Physical Demands

The following physical demands must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is

• Frequently manipulating, moving or grasping small parts, devices or tools
• Frequently required to remain in a stationary position
• Frequently moving through office, critical facility and other environments (such as low temperatures, high temperatures and outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind), including tight and confined spaces
• Frequently descending / ascending stairs and ladders to access equipment
• Ability to operate a lift and obtain/provide a lift certification
• On occasion the employee may be required to position self under or over equipment
• On occasion the employee may move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds

Travel / Relocation Requirements

• Primarily supports local and regional project needs, with most travel occurring within the employee's home market or surrounding area.
• Must be based within a reasonable commuting distance of the assigned work region and able to travel locally as business needs require.
• Occasional overnight travel may be required depending on project demands, client needs, or business priorities.
• Effective May 7, 2025, and in accordance with U.S. federal regulations for domestic air travel, a valid REAL ID (or an acceptable alternative, such as a passport) is required for travel associated with this position.
• Travel may involve transportation by car or plane depending on destination and business need.
• Travel is defined as physically leaving home on behalf of business activities, including but not limited to client sites, meetings with employees, business development meetings, errands on behalf of the business, and industry conferences.

Education / Experience Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction or related discipline
• OR
• Two years of experience with hands-on installation, testing, validation and troubleshooting of controls infrastructure
• PLUS
• Minimum of five years of additional experience with installation, hands-on testing, validation and troubleshooting of controls infrastructure

Benefits

Smart Tech Contracting offers a very competitive benefits package; highlights include

• Choice of comprehensive medical plans (including two PPO-style plans and a HDHP w/ HSA option)
• Dental and vision plans
• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits extended to spouse / domestic partner and dependent children up to age 26