Senior Controls Engineer

Description of Position

This position provides technical consulting, DDC programming installation, and project leadership services for Direct Digital Control (DDC) systems, networking and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration systems (HVAC&R). The position will develop, document and program control strategies for optimizing mechanical systems performance, prepare specifications, manage projects and serve as a technical support resource for the Facilities Management Team. The position will also be responsible for coordination of equipment startup/commissioning to validate and document/report that building system performance meets the design intent.

Essential Functions of Position

25% Provide technical consulting and project leadership for multi-platform automation systems, and building automation systems networks. Implement energy savings programming strategies in DDC Johnson, Siemens, Tridium, Trane and XL5000 controllers at the direction of district engineering staff. Develop procedures and policy guidelines for operational use. Assist with commissioning process.

20% Manage projects and coordinate personnel by preparing labor and material estimates, providing guidance, scheduling work, ordering equipment, and providing advice and instruction to technicians, trades and mechanics from the University, as well as outside vendors. Evaluate and negotiate proposals from outside vendors. Work with vendors to keep estimated project costs within budget.

15% Design and implement DDC application programs for mechanical, electrical, and fire/life safety systems to optimize system performance, maintain building comfort levels, and monitor critical alarms such as fire, mechanical/electrical equipment failure, clean rooms, and hazardous materials. Design dynamic graphics per technical specifications and support the feature set of the DDC application to improve reporting and monitoring for various groups of personnel.

15% Inspect construction in progress for compliance with University construction standards and specifications. Implement changes and make recommendations when necessary in these systems for efficient operation of facilities. Work district engineering staff to assist them in the development of technical solutions for their business needs.

10% Assure all equipment is performance tested; verifying that performance of the systems meets the requirements of the building. Design and implement various on-going commissioning strategies for multiple main stream DDC systems for use in all campus buildings.

10% Serve as a systems expert and a training resource for DDC systems. Work with building operations personnel to ensure that all required building systems and equipment training is delivered and completed.

5% Work with the Design Team and project manager to define and document the operational and occupant requirements of the facility. Interpret plans and work specifications and advise project managers, building commissioning and district engineering personnel.

Work Environment

Work is performed in an office setting. Occasionally work is in high temperature or noisy mechanical/electrical equipment rooms and rooftops.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or closely related field. Six or more years applicable experience in automated control systems design, development, maintenance and validation of HVAC&R systems. Experience in DDC programming, networking and cost control optimization strategies in a building engineering environment is required. Equivalent combination of academic or work experience may be substituted.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Thorough understanding of and ability to troubleshoot DDC hardware and software problems and network and communication concerns for Siemens, Honeywell, Johnson, Trane and similar systems.
Ability to develop logic and construction drawings using Visio and AutoCad. Identifies and analyzes critical issues and develops/proposes operational plans and procedures.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite software, including Visio and Access.
Knowledge of programming languages used in Direct Digital Controls systems such as PPCL, LCT and Supervisory Controller Programming.
Ability to apply newly developed technologies in HVAC&R and DDC.
Ability to think independently, be self-motivated, and perform under minimal supervision.
Strong organization, analytical, problem solving, and technical skills.
Excellent leadership, team, communication, training, and human relations skills.
Ability to supervise others.
Working knowledge of computer networks and building automation networks.

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).