Building Automation Systems Engineers

Building automation systems engineers must have at least three years of experience in lower-level automation positions, although new college graduates with automation-focused internship, co-op, and/or volunteer experience may be hired for certain positions.

To be successful in the career, engineers must have strong knowledge of control theory; be familiar with microcontroller programming, binary and digital logic, and analog circuits; have an understanding of local and state building codes; be proficient in the use of computer-aided design, building information modeling, and energy use modeling software; and possess other technical skills. They should also be able to use hand and power tools and diagnostic tools such as multimeters.

Engineers must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills in order to communicate effectively with colleagues, company executives, and clients; write reports; and make effective presentations. The ability to convey technical knowledge to a non-technical audience is extremely important because potential and current clients often do not have a background in construction, automation, or engineering. Other important traits include top-notch analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities; a detail-oriented personality; the ability to remain calm under pressure and multitask; the ability to work as a member of a team; strong ethics; leadership ability; and excellent organizational and time-management skills.