How to Be Building Automation Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 23, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The demand for Building Automation Technicians has grown exponentially in recent years due to the rise in energy-efficient automation systems. The need for these technicians is driven by the rising costs of energy, increasing environmental regulations, and the growing popularity of smart home technologies. As a result, Building Automation Technicians are now in high demand, as they are able to ensure that buildings use as little energy as possible, as well as reduce operational costs.

This is achieved through the use of automated systems such as lighting controls, HVAC systems, and access control systems. Building Automation Technicians are responsible for maintaining these systems, ensuring they are running correctly and efficiently, while also troubleshooting any problems that may occur. As a result, those with the right combination of technical and organizational skills are highly sought after in this field.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Building automation technicians often enter the field with a high school diploma or GED. A high school diploma or GED provides the basic education and foundation needed to build a career in building automation technology.
Consider postsecondary education. Although many employers may hire building automation technicians with just a high school diploma, some prefer or require applicants to have additional postsecondary education. Certificate and associate's degree programs in HVAC technology, electrical technology, mechanical engineering technology, and related areas may provide students with the skills needed for a career in building automation technology.
Gain experience. Many employers prefer to hire technicians with prior experience in the field. Thus, individuals interested in becoming building automation technicians may benefit from internships or apprenticeships in related fields such as HVAC, electrical, and mechanical technology.
Consider certification. Many employers prefer to hire building automation technicians who are certified by professional organizations such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). To become certified, applicants must pass an examination on various topics related to building automation technology.
Obtain additional training. Building automation technology is constantly evolving, and technicians must stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field. Building automation technicians can gain additional training by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences offered by professional organizations.

In order to stay ahead and capable as an Automation Technician, it is essential to stay up to date with the latest technology and industry trends. Keeping up with the new products, features, and best practices will help you be able to identify and troubleshoot problems quickly and efficiently. it is important to build and maintain a strong network of industry contacts.

Having a strong network of professionals in the automation field can help you gain access to the latest information and resources, as well as provide opportunities for collaboration, which can help you stay ahead of the competition. Finally, investing in continuing education courses and certifications can help ensure that you stay skilled in your field and can offer the best services possible.

You may want to check Building Maintenance Supervisor, Building Maintenance Worker, and Building Inspector Assistant for alternative.

Job Description

Install, program, and troubleshoot HVAC systems and building automation systems.
Develop and maintain system programming for automation systems.
Monitor, diagnose and repair problems with HVAC and building automation systems.
Perform scheduled maintenance on all HVAC and building automation systems.
Prepare and provide technical reports on system performance.
Assist in the design, installation, and commissioning of new HVAC and building automation systems.
Test and verify system components prior to installation.
Assist in the development of control strategies to optimize system performance.
Provide technical support to operations personnel, contractors, and other personnel as required.
Maintain inventory of spare parts and equipment.
Comply with local, state, and federal regulations related to building automation systems.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of building automation systems, including programming, logic and controls.
Ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams, blueprints, and other technical documents.
Knowledge of HVAC systems, including components, operation, and maintenance.
Computer literacy and experience with automation software.
Knowledge of electrical components and wiring techniques.
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose issues with automation systems.
Familiarity with safety standards and regulations related to building automation systems.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong customer service skills.
Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills.

Having a strong knowledge of building automation systems is essential for any Building Automation Technician. This includes understanding the underlying principles of HVAC and electrical systems, being able to troubleshoot as well as repair and maintain these systems, and having a thorough understanding of programming and networking. Furthermore, having a working knowledge of building automation regulations, procedures, and codes is also important, as this can ensure that the systems are functioning in compliance with all applicable regulations.

having excellent customer service skills is essential in this line of work, as Building Automation Technicians are often interacting directly with customers in order to provide the best possible experience. Finally, being able to effectively communicate with other technicians, supervisors, and customers is paramount to success in this field. With these skills in place, Building Automation Technicians can ensure that their customers systems are up and running optimally, maximizing energy efficiency and cost savings.

Building Superintendent, Building Services Coordinator, and Building Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in building automation systems?
Describe a difficult problem you had to troubleshoot in a building automation system and how you solved it.
What experience do you have with programming control systems?
What experience do you have with installing, troubleshooting, and repairing building automation systems?
What strategies do you use to ensure the accuracy and reliability of building automation systems?
How do you stay up to date on the latest building automation technologies?
Are you familiar with the National Electrical Code (NEC) as it relates to building automation systems?
How would you handle a customer complaint regarding a malfunctioning building automation system?
What challenges have you faced while integrating new building automation systems with existing systems?
How do you ensure that the programming of a building automation system meets customer expectations?

Common Tools in Industry

Electrical Meters. Used to measure and record the amount of electricity used in a building. (eg: Fluke Multimeter)
Circuit Breakers. Used to control and protect electrical circuits from overloads. (eg: Square D Circuit Breaker)
Programmable Logic Controllers. Used to automate processes within a building. (eg: Siemens PLC)
HVAC Controls. Used to monitor and adjust heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. (eg: Honeywell Thermostat)
Building Automation Software. Used to control and monitor multiple systems across a building. (eg: Johnson Controls Metasys)
Networking Equipment. Used to connect multiple devices within a building and across networks. (eg: Cisco Routers)
Lighting Controls. Used to dim, adjust, or turn off lighting systems. (eg: Lutron Caseta Wireless Lighting Control System)
Access Control Systems. Used to manage and control physical access to a building. (eg: Honeywell Access Control System)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
Building Automation Contractors Association (BACA)
Association of Energy Engineers (AEE)
Automated Buildings Association (ABA)
BuildingIQ
Continental Automated Buildings Association (CABA)
International Society of Automation (ISA)
LonMark International
Smart Buildings Institute

We also have Building Engineer, Building Control Technician, and Building Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Building Automation System (BAS). A computerized system that controls and monitors heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, security, and other systems in a building.
Building Management System (BMS). A system that combines building automation systems with other building systems to ensure the efficient and safe operation of a building.
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). A type of computer used to control industrial processes and machines.
HVAC. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning the system used to regulate the temperature and air quality in a building.
Lighting Control System. A system used to regulate the amount of light in a building.
Security System. A system used to detect intruders and protect a building from unauthorized access.
Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI). A system of meters and communication networks used to collect energy usage data from buildings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Building Automation Technician?

A Building Automation Technician is a professional who installs and maintains automated systems that control heating, cooling, ventilation, and other building environment systems.

What qualifications are required to become a Building Automation Technician?

To become a Building Automation Technician, individuals typically need an associate degree or certificate in a related field, such as HVAC or electrical engineering, and experience working with automation systems.

What types of tasks do Building Automation Technicians perform?

Building Automation Technicians typically perform tasks such as installing and calibrating automated systems; troubleshooting system issues; programming, testing, and maintaining systems; and providing ongoing maintenance to ensure peak performance.

What tools do Building Automation Technicians use?

Building Automation Technicians commonly use tools such as multimeters, test instruments, soldering irons, and computers to diagnose and repair automated systems.