How to Be HVAC Controls Engineer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 27, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

HVAC Controls Engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining systems that control the temperature, humidity, and air quality of a facility. These systems are essential for maintaining a comfortable and safe environment for occupants. Without the expertise of an HVAC Controls Engineer, buildings would become energy inefficient, causing higher utility bills and uncomfortable working environment.

failure to properly maintain these systems can lead to health and safety risks, such as air contamination and temperature-related illnesses. having an experienced HVAC Controls Engineer on staff is essential for keeping a buildings occupants comfortable and safe while also protecting the bottom line.

Steps How to Become

Earn a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Though not required, many employers prefer to hire HVAC controls engineers with a bachelor's degree.
Gain experience. It's important to gain experience in the field before attempting to become an HVAC controls engineer. This can be done by working as an HVAC technician or in a related field.
Become certified. Many employers require HVAC controls engineers to be certified, either through a professional organization or by the state in which they live.
Develop a portfolio. A portfolio of experience in the field will help potential employers evaluate your skills and abilities.
Take additional courses. Taking courses in computer programming, electronics and other related fields can help you become more marketable for a job as an HVAC controls engineer.
Apply for jobs. Once you have the necessary qualifications, you can begin applying for jobs as an HVAC controls engineer.

The selection of a reliable and qualified HVAC Controls Engineer is essential for the successful completion of any HVAC installation project. The engineer should have experience in designing, installing, and maintaining HVAC controls systems. Knowledge of the latest industry standards and codes is also critical.

In addition, a thorough familiarity with HVAC systems, including electrical and mechanical components, is essential. To ensure that the engineer is reliable and qualified, it is important to verify their credentials, review references, and obtain a detailed understanding of their prior experience and capabilities. By taking these steps, property owners can rest assured that their HVAC installation project will be handled by a qualified and reliable professional.

You may want to check HVAC System Technician, HVAC Service Manager, and HVAC Sales Engineer for alternative.

Job Description

Design, program, and document HVAC control systems.
Configure and test HVAC system controllers and components.
Create sequence of operation documents for HVAC systems.
Troubleshoot and repair existing HVAC systems.
Develop user interface designs for HVAC systems.
Implement energy saving strategies for HVAC systems.
Research new technologies and products for HVAC systems.
Monitor HVAC system performance and make adjustments as necessary.
Implement safety protocols for HVAC systems.
Provide technical support to customers and contractors.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of HVAC systems and components, including air and water treatment systems, air handlers, chillers, boilers, and other related systems.
Understanding of the fundamentals of thermodynamics, thermochemistry, psychrometrics, and heat transfer.
Ability to read blueprints and technical schematics.
Knowledge of electrical systems, including wiring diagrams and electrical power distribution.
Experience with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and computerized control systems.
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose HVAC systems and controls.
Knowledge of government regulations governing energy conservation and emissions control.
Understanding of building management systems and the ability to integrate HVAC controls into them.
Ability to write computer code for HVAC control systems.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for working with clients and other professionals.

Having strong technical knowledge in HVAC Controls Engineering is essential for success in this field. This includes a deep understanding of how the various systems interact and how to troubleshoot them when problems arise. Being able to read and interpret drawings, diagrams, and schematics is also critical in order to identify and resolve issues.

having excellent problem-solving skills and being able to think logically to identify the root cause of any issue is key. Having a strong background in electrical theory, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics helps engineers to better understand how HVAC systems function. Lastly, having good communication and interpersonal skills ensures that engineers can effectively interact with clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders.

All of these skills are required for success in the field of HVAC Controls Engineering.

HVAC Field Service Engineer, HVAC Refrigeration Technician, and HVAC Parts Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with HVAC control systems?
How familiar are you with HVAC industry standards and regulations?
What is your experience installing, programming, and troubleshooting HVAC control systems?
How do you stay up to date with the latest advancements in HVAC control technology?
Are you familiar with integrating HVAC control systems with other building automation systems?
What challenges have you faced while working on HVAC control projects?
Are you comfortable working with both wired and wireless communications technologies?
What have you done to improve energy efficiency in HVAC control systems?
Are you able to manage multiple projects of varying complexity simultaneously?
What strategies do you use to ensure reliable operation and maintenance of HVAC control systems?

Common Tools in Industry

Building Automation System (BAS). A computer-based control system that automates the operation of a buildings mechanical and electrical systems. (eg: Siemens Desigo CC)
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). Devices used to automate industrial processes, such as conveyor systems. (eg: Allen-Bradley ControlLogix)
HVAC Controllers. Devices used to monitor and control HVAC systems. (eg: Honeywell T7350)
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA). A system used to control and monitor large-scale industrial processes. (eg: Wonderware InTouch)
Digital Thermostats. Devices used to control the temperature in a building. (eg: Nest Learning Thermostat)
Direct Digital Control (DDC). A type of HVAC control system that uses digital signals to control various components of the system. (eg: Johnson Controls Metasys)
Building Management System (BMS). A computer-based control system that is used to manage the operation of a buildings systems. (eg: Tridium Niagara AX)
Building Analytics Software. Software used to analyze data from building systems in order to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs. (eg: Siemens Enlight)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI)
Building Automation and Control Association (BACA)
Control Systems Professional Association (CSPA)
International Society of Automation (ISA)
Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET)
Direct Digital Control Manufacturers Association (DDCMA)
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)

We also have HVAC Design Technician, HVAC Estimator, and HVAC Project Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

BAS (Building Automation System). A building automation system (BAS) is an electronic system that automates and optimizes how a buildings heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems operate.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning). HVAC is an acronym that stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It is a system of components that work together to provide thermal comfort and indoor air quality in a building.
PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). A programmable logic controller (PLC) is an industrial computer used for automating processes. It is typically used in industrial settings to monitor, control and optimize equipment such as pumps, motors, and conveyors.
DDC (Direct Digital Control). Direct digital control (DDC) is a form of building automation that uses digital computers, data networks, and sensors to monitor and control HVAC systems in buildings.
BMS (Building Management System). A building management system (BMS) is a computer-based system that monitors and controls the mechanical, electrical, and other systems in a building.
BACnet (Building Automation and Control Network). BACnet is a communication protocol used in building automation and control networks. It is used to connect different types of devices such as sensors and controllers to enable automation functions.
SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition). SCADA is a type of software used for monitoring and controlling industrial processes from a remote location. It collects data from sensors located in a facility and displays it in real-time on a computer or control panel.
IoT (Internet of Things). The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of physical objects that can collect and exchange data over the internet. It includes devices such as sensors, actuators, and controllers that can be used to monitor and control HVAC systems remotely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an HVAC Controls Engineer?

An HVAC Controls Engineer is a professional who designs, installs, and maintains the systems used to control heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

What qualifications are necessary for an HVAC Controls Engineer?

An HVAC Controls Engineer typically needs a degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field, as well as specialized training in HVAC control systems. A valid drivers license and experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software may also be required.

What does an HVAC Controls Engineer do?

An HVAC Controls Engineer designs, installs, tests, and maintains control systems for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. They may also provide technical support and troubleshooting, document system performance, and develop preventative maintenance plans.

What skills are required for an HVAC Controls Engineer?

An HVAC Controls Engineer should have strong problem-solving skills and be able to think critically. They should be familiar with CAD software, understand electrical schematics and diagrams, and have general knowledge of HVAC systems. Good communication skills are necessary to interact with clients and other professionals.

What is the average salary of an HVAC Controls Engineer?

The average salary of an HVAC Controls Engineer is approximately $80,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries can vary depending on experience, geographic location, and other factors.

Web Resources

HVAC Systems Design and Control - University of California, San extendedstudies.ucsd.edu
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Engineering Technology www.pct.edu
HVAC Control and Energy Management Systems MEC ENG X473 extension.berkeley.edu