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Job Description Summary
The Building Automation Specialist supports the university’s Building Performance Improvement Initiative, which aims to reduce energy consumption, operational costs, and greenhouse gas emissions across the Reynolda Campus and surrounding properties. Working in close collaboration with the utilities and maintenance teams, the specialist develops, monitors, and assists in the management of programs for HVAC Building Automation Systems (BAS), energy metering, and broader energy and carbon-reduction efforts. This role is integral in identifying system inefficiencies and recommending practical, data-driven solutions to optimize building performance.
Job Description
*This position is not eligible for sponsorship of non-immigrant or immigrant visa status through Wake Forest University. All eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.
Essential Functions:
- Provide continuous monitoring and regularly analyze data from Building Automation Systems (BAS) to proactively identify performance degradation, operational inefficiencies, or programming defects in HVAC systems. Develop and implement technical solutions (e.g., control sequence tuning, retro-commissioning) to restore peak performance.
- Assist in the design review, project oversight, and execution of re-commissioning efforts for major HVAC systems to verify and sustain optimal operation.
- Contribute to the development, deployment, and utilization of a Campus Building Analytics platform (e.g., Fault Detection and Diagnostics - FDD) to shift operations from reactive maintenance to predictive optimization.
- Collaborate effectively with internal Facilities Maintenance teams, campus engineers, and external third-party contractors to quickly diagnose and resolve complex operational and energy-related issues.
- Perform detailed facility walkthroughs and energy audits to identify high-consumption areas and wasted energy with precision. Propose and document data-driven corrective measures, supported by precise cost-benefit analyses.
- Serve as the technical lead for the campus energy metering program. Troubleshoot system issues, ensure the integrity and accuracy of energy data, and maintain the reliability of the metering infrastructure for robust reporting and analysis.
- Provide support for the planning, design, and management of end-to-end campus-wide energy conservation and management projects focused on maximizing efficiency and achieving sustainability goals.
- Maintain meticulous, accurate documentation of all system changes, project scopes, implementation progress, and verified project outcomes and energy savings.
Other Functions:
- Report safety-related concerns to the appropriate Safety Director.
- Adhere to all University and departmental policies and procedures.
Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, HVAC Technology, Building Automation, or related field with 3 to 5 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated knowledge of commercial building systems and control technologies with a solid understanding of HVAC systems, sensors, and control theory.
- Proficient in understanding operations of at least one major BAS platform, including the ability to diagnose and troubleshoot the BAS, metering, and related software systems.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess energy performance and recommend improvements.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical documentation.
- Proficient with computer technology and software, including Microsoft Suites, Google Software, CMMs, and building system software tools.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to interact effectively with internal teams and external vendors.
- Strong customer service orientation and interpersonal skills.
- Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record and ability to meet University insurance requirements.
- This position may be designated as essential personnel to support business continuity during campus emergencies, disasters, or other special needs as directed by management. Essential personnel are subject to recall inside/outside their normal schedule. Additional details can be found in the Wake Forest University Policy on Weather and Other Unusual Conditions.
Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
- Experience in a higher education, hospital, or similar environment.
- Certified Energy Manager (CEM) certification.
- Experience with advanced BAS control strategies and retro-commissioning.
- Familiarity and hands-on experience with Johnson Controls Metasys, Schneider Electric/Yamas, and Alerton Control Systems.
- Experience with energy management and sustainability programs.
- Understanding of emerging technologies and the use of Artificial Intelligence.
Prior experience implementing energy analytics tools or platforms.
Physical Requirements
- Medium physical work: includes climbing, kneeling, walking, standing, and lifting.
- Requires close visual acuity for inspecting systems and using measurement tools.
- Work may occur indoors and outdoors, with exposure to varying environmental conditions and potential hazards.
Disclaimer:
This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by the employee’s supervisor.
Additional Job Description
This position is not eligible for sponsorship of non-immigrant or immigrant visa status through Wake Forest University. All eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.
Time Type Requirement
Full time
Note to Applicant:
This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by his/her supervisor.
In order to provide a safe and productive learning and living community, Wake Forest University conducts background investigations and drug screens for all final staff candidates being considered for employment.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified candidates to apply without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, disability and military or veteran status.
Accommodations for Applicants
If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact AskHR@wfu.edu or (336) 758-4700.
