Controls Specialist

Controls Specialist – Inside Higher Ed

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The Controls Specialist provides leadership and strategic oversight of the campus Direct Digital Control (DDC) Building Management System (BMS), which monitors and controls the university’s Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems through the Niagara N4 open-protocol platform using Honeywell and Distech hardware. This position manages the operation, maintenance, and expansion of the BMS and associated systems including electrical metering, lighting, solar monitoring, and irrigation controls to support the university’s energy efficiency and sustainability goals.

The Controls Specialist supervises technical staff, oversees vendor contracts, leads system integration projects, and ensures all automation systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably.

• Oversee the installation, configuration, and maintenance of HVAC, lighting, metering, and irrigation control systems, including sensors, controllers, and other related equipment.
• Ensure all systems are properly tested, calibrated, and optimized for operational reliability and energy efficiency.
• Program and optimize automated control sequences to improve energy efficiency and system performance.
• Conduct routine and preventive maintenance to ensure reliable systems performance.
• Integrate new systems with existing equipment, including wiring and setup.
• Provide oversight for the operation and maintenance of the central chiller plant.
• Maintain comprehensive and accurate records of system settings, wiring diagrams and maintenance activities for reference and compliance.

• Monitor the BMS and related software daily to identify and confirm performance issues.
• Use diagnostic tools and instruments to evaluate components and communication networks.
• Collaborate with the mechanical engineer and HVAC, electrical, and irrigation teams to identify and resolve complex issues.
• Perform root cause analysis and recommend corrective actions for long‑term reliability.
• Verify system performance after repairs or upgrades to ensure safety and efficiency.
• Document findings, repairs, and resolutions for tracking and continuous improvement.

• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications to plan and execute work.
• Maintain detailed service logs, inspection reports, repairs and system performance records for compliance and future planning.
• Collaborate and communicate clearly with engineers, supervisors, technicians, contractors, and campus personnel to ensure efficient facility operations and maintenance support.
• Participate in an on‑call rotation to respond to after‑hours emergencies.
• Follow OSHA safety standards, building codes, and university policies.

• Associate’s degree or technical certification in a related field like electrical or mechanical engineering preferred.
• 5–7 years in BAS/DDC controls, HVAC/R, or energy systems, with experience in system optimization and integration projects.

• Strong understanding of HVAC/R systems, mechanical controls, and electrical principles.
• Proficiency with building automation and energy management software tools.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical and electrical blueprints and technical documentation.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with attention to detail.
• Familiarity with network protocols (e.g., Niagara N4 platform).
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.
• Commitment to safety, accuracy, and continuous learning.

• 401(k) matching
• Tuition benefits for employee and qualified dependents
• Medical and Dental
• Short‑ and Long‑term disability benefits
• Paid parental and maternity leave
• Relocation Package

32.00 – 37.00

The wage offered could be above or below range based on education and experience as it relates to the job description.

As an educational institution affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints, BYU‑Hawaii prefers to hire qualified members of the Church in good standing, as authorized under 41 C.F.R. 60‑1.5(a)(6). To be eligible for employment, applicants who are members of the Church must hold and be worthy to hold a current temple recommend and receive a clearance from the Church’s Ecclesiastical Clearance Office.

Job applicants must be able to meet these conditions to advance through the hiring process successfully. An expired temple recommend will prevent consideration for hire.