Job description
Senior Controls Engineer
Commercial HVAC & Building Automation Systems
Take Your Career to the Next Level with VMG!
At Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG), we are always seeking talented individuals to join our growing team. Our commitment to exceptional customer service and innovative solutions drives our success and continued growth. When you join VMG, you become part of a supportive team that values its employees, encourages professional development, and takes pride in delivering high-quality work.
VMG is a leading commercial HVAC and plumbing contractor specializing in new construction, renovations, tenant improvements, design-build projects, and complex mechanical installations throughout the region.
Lead the Engineering Behind Building Automation Systems
Vertical Mechanical Group is seeking an experienced Senior Controls Engineer to join our Controls, Commissioning, and Startup team.
This position is responsible for designing and engineering building automation systems (BAS) and low-voltage controls systems, from initial submittals through installation and field support.
The ideal candidate has a strong technical background in HVAC controls, DDC controllers, BAS networking, and controls system design. We are looking for someone who takes ownership of their projects, solves technical challenges efficiently, and works closely with field technicians, programmers, and project teams to ensure successful project delivery.
Location:
Mixed Office/Jobsites – DC, Maryland, and Virginia Region
Department:
Controls, Commissioning, and Startup
Reports To:
Director of Commissioning & Controls
FLSA Classification:
Exempt
Key Responsibilities
• Develop complete controls shop drawings and submittals using Microsoft Visio, including system schematics, wiring diagrams, network risers, panel layouts, points lists, bills of materials, and sequences of operation.
• Review mechanical drawings, project specifications, and equipment submittals to determine controls scope, point counts, and integration requirements.
• Select and apply DDC controllers, I/O modules, sensors, actuators, valves, and network devices based on project requirements.
• Design BAS network architecture, including BACnet MS/TP, BACnet/IP, Modbus RTU/TCP, device addressing, and third-party equipment integration.
• Apply knowledge of Lynxspring, Johnson Controls Facility Explorer, and Distech Controls platforms to develop effective solutions.
• Design low-voltage power and control circuits, including transformer sizing, power distribution, voltage drop, and safety interlocks.
• Identify and resolve design conflicts, equipment limitations, and sequence-of-operation challenges.
• Prepare RFIs to clarify project specifications, design intent, and technical requirements.
• Address submittal review comments and revise engineering drawings through approval.
• Provide technical guidance to BAS programmers, startup technicians, and field installers throughout installation, testing, and commissioning.
• Prepare as-built drawings and assist with project closeout documentation.
• Support estimating teams with point counts, equipment selections, and technical scope reviews when needed.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to engineering standards, templates, and best practices.
Qualifications & Experience
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Building Systems Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related field. Equivalent controls engineering experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in building automation or controls engineering, including shop drawing development.
• Strong knowledge of DDC controllers, BACnet MS/TP, BACnet/IP, and Modbus RTU/TCP protocols.
• Experience with Lynxspring, Johnson Controls Facility Explorer, and Distech Controls systems.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Visio for controls drafting.
• Strong understanding of low-voltage control circuits, wiring practices, and BAS networking.
• Knowledge of HVAC systems, including air handling units, VAV systems, central plants, DOAS, VRF, and hydronic systems.
• Ability to interpret mechanical, electrical, and controls drawings, specifications, and sequences of operation.
• Familiarity with ASHRAE Guideline 36, ASHRAE 135 (BACnet), and applicable NEC requirements.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and resolve technical challenges.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to jobsites throughout the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region.
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with the Niagara Framework.
• AutoCAD…