Controls Engineer – HVAC Automation/SCADA

Job Title: Controls Engineer – HVAC Automation/SCADA 

Job Summary:

The Controls Engineer – HVAC Automation/SCADA is responsible for developing, programming, integrating, and maintaining control systems for HVAC infrastructure within water and wastewater treatment plants. This role plays a critical part in ensuring optimal environmental control, system efficiency, and operational reliability through advanced automation and SCADA integration.

Key Responsibilities

HVAC Automation & Control Development

• Design and implement control logic for HVAC systems including air handling units (AHUs), chillers, exhaust fans, and pressurization systems.

• Configure, program, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and BAS systems.

• Develop and maintain functional control descriptions and logic diagrams.

SCADA Integration & Support

• Integrate HVAC controls into SCADA platforms to support monitoring, alarm handling, and historical data trending.

• Maintain and optimize communication networks (e.g., Modbus, BACnet, OPC) between HVAC equipment and SCADA/BAS systems.

System Maintenance & Optimization

• Support preventive and predictive maintenance for HVAC controls.

• Analyze data to improve system efficiency, reduce downtime, and ensure compliance with environmental controls.

Project Engineering

• Lead or support HVAC automation portions of capital projects and retrofits.

• Collaborate with vendors, engineers, and contractors for commissioning and integration of new systems.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain updated control system documentation including loop diagrams, control narratives, and network architecture.

• Ensure compliance with ASHRAE, NFPA, and site-specific standards.

Key Focus Areas

• PLC/HMI programming and troubleshooting

• SCADA integration and HVAC systems monitoring

• Process efficiency and energy optimization

• Capital project support for automation

• Controls documentation and compliance

Qualifications and Skills

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Control Systems, or related field

Certifications (Preferred):

• Rockwell Automation, Siemens, or Ignition certifications

• OSHA 30, NFPA 70E, or other electrical safety credentials

• LEED or ASHRAE-related HVAC credentials (optional)

Experience:

• 3–6 years of experience in industrial automation or HVAC control systems

• Hands-on experience with PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.) and SCADA platforms

• Familiarity with HVAC equipment and sequences of operation in large facilities

Skills:

• Strong understanding of control systems design, P&IDs, and control loop tuning

• Ability to troubleshoot system faults using HMIs, SCADA tools, and field instrumentation

• Good communication, teamwork, and documentation abilities