Design Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Design Engineer - Building Automation / HVAC Controls Optimization

Location: Washington, D.C.

Compensation: $110,000 - $135,000

Do you enjoy figuring out how buildings actually operate and turning that understanding into smarter controls designs? Are you ready to take more ownership of BAS and HVAC retrofit projects while growing your career?

One of our clients is an integrated engineering and construction firm with three decades of experience delivering energy retrofits, HVAC modernization, building automation upgrades, and decarbonization projects across commercial, healthcare, education, and municipal portfolios throughout North America. In this role where you will work across the full project lifecycle, from site surveys and controls design through commissioning and post-project optimization.

You'll be mentored directly by a seasoned manager (perfect opportunity if you are working towards your P.E.) in a culture of flexibility, trust, autonomy, and support. The position also comes with a hybrid work schedule and generous health and PTO benefits. 

What You Will Do:

Turn existing buildings into better-performing systems by conducting site surveys and working with the design team to define the scope for DDC and BAS upgrade projects.

Build the controls roadmap by developing complete RFP packages, including point lists, drawing markups, specifications, and documentation for mechanical and controls contractors.

Define how the building should operate by developing sequences of operation based on existing system conditions, project goals, and input from the broader engineering team.

Take your designs from paper to performance by developing commissioning scripts, coordinating with controls contractors, and managing the commissioning process.

Be the technical eyes on the project by reviewing controls submittals and construction drawings, answering questions, resolving field issues, and managing punch-list deficiencies through completion.

Help operators get the most out of the system by training facilities personnel on upgraded controls and building systems following project turnover.

See the results of your work by leading post-commissioning optimization, improving HVAC performance, and helping verify energy savings through an ongoing feedback loop with the design team.

What We Are Looking For:

3+ years engineering background within BAS/energy space (i.e. building automation, DDC controls, HVAC systems, or a related environment)

An understanding of controls design and documentation , including sequences of operation, RFIs, submittals, commissioning documents, or similar project deliverables.

The ability to read and mark up mechanical and controls drawings and understand how the pieces of an HVAC and BAS design fit together in the field.

A practical problem-solving mindset with the ability to look at an existing system, understand what is happening, and help determine how it can operate better.

Strong communication and coordination skills for working with clients, contractors, controls vendors, and internal engineering teams throughout a project.

An interest in continuing to grow technically. You should be interested in developing your engineering expertise and taking on greater project ownership over time. The firm will actively support that growth.

This is an opportunity to build deep expertise at the intersection of building automation, HVAC performance, energy efficiency, and decarbonization while learning from an experienced team. The firm's work has earned recognition from ASHRAE, the Association of Energy Engineers, and the U.S. Green Building Council.

Opportunity begins with dialogue. If this sounds like a role you would like to discuss, please send me your qualifications or contact me, Jenne Hays, at View phone number on ziprecruiter.com. All inquiries will be treated confidentially.

Not quite the position you're looking for? I specialize in recruiting for building automation, HVAC controls, smart buildings, and connected technologies nationwide. Many of the opportunities I work on are never publicly advertised. If you're a controls professional, I'd welcome the opportunity to connect and discuss your career goals.