Job Title: Building Automation & Controls Hardware Design Engineer
Location: Atlanta Georgia
Job Type: Full-Time
Department: Engineering
We are seeking a detail-oriented
Building Automation and Controls Hardware Design Engineer with strong mechanical HVAC context to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, specifying, and documenting electrical control panels, hardware schematics, field device selection, and system topology for complex commercial and industrial Building Automation Systems (BAS).
You will bridge the gap between complex mechanical equipment-such as
Chiller Plants, Steam Generation systems, DOAS, and VRF/VRV integration-and DDC control execution.
Key Responsibilities- Hardware & Panel Design: Design detailed BAS/BMS hardware control panel layouts, power distribution, and point-to-point wiring diagrams using Microsoft Visio.
- System Specification: Select and specify appropriate Distech Controls DDC controllers, field sensors, actuators, transmitters, energy meters, and VFDs aligned with complex Sequences of Operations (SOO).
- Niagara & Distech Architecture: Design system network architectures leveraging Tridium Niagara frameworks and Distech hardware platforms, incorporating BACnet (IP/MS-TP), Modbus, and custom integration interfaces (e.g., VRF/VRV gateways).
- Submittal Engineering: Develop comprehensive engineering submittal packages-including Bill of Materials (BOMs), system riser diagrams, network topologies, and valve/damper schedules.
- Mechanical Systems Integration: Design control hardware strategies tailored for complex mechanical applications, including Chiller Plants, Steam Generation, Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS), Air Handling Units (AHUs), and VRF/VRV systems.
- Compliance & Support: Ensure all control panel designs adhere to UL 508A and NEC standards while providing direct technical support to panel assembly personnel and field startup technicians.
Qualifications & SkillsRequired:- Experience: 5+ years of hardware design engineering experience specifically within Building Automation (BAS/BMS).
- Software Tools: Proficiency in drafting submittals and hardware layouts using Microsoft Visio (or AutoCAD/Revit).
- Hardware & Software Platforms: Direct design experience with Distech Controls hardware and the Tridium Niagara framework (N4 / AX).
- Deep Mechanical Knowledge:Proven understanding of complex HVAC systems and equipment operations, including:
- Central Chilled Water Plants (Chillers, Pumps, Cooling Towers)
- Steam Generation and Boilers
- Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) and Energy Recovery Systems
- Variable Refrigerant Flow / Volume (VRF/VRV) system integration
- Variable Air Volume (VAV) & Air Handling Units (AHU)
- Networking & Protocols: Solid understanding of BACnet IP / MS-TP, Modbus RTU / TCP, and serial/IP topology design.
- Codes: Strong working knowledge of NEC standards and UL 508A panel design principles.
Preferred:- Tridium Niagara N4 Certification.
- Distech Controls certification / specialized training.
- Background in mechanical troubleshooting, HVAC service, or field commissioning.
This job description is intended to provide information regarding the essential functions and basic duties of this position. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and duties that could be assigned. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by management as it deems appropriate. This document does not constitute a contract and is subject to change at the discretion of Hoffman Building Technologies, Inc.
No phone calls or drop-ins please.
