Automation Technician
About the Opportunity:
Reporting to the Automation Supervisor, the Automation Technician is responsible for the operation and maintenance of Building Management Systems (BMS) and Life Support Systems (LSS) automation systems, including hardware and software. This position will work directly with the Building Engineers, Electricians, Experience Engineering, and Aquatic Biology departments. This role works alongside other trades and academy departments as necessary coordinating maintenance and project priorities. We are looking for an entry level candidate who is interested in breaking into the field of controls. Candidates will be introduced to coding, low voltage electrical, HVAC, aquarium systems, and more.
Organizational Culture
Join a team dedicated to the Academy’s mission, vision and values! Currently, the Academy has a new strategic plan including three initiatives – Hope for Reefs, Thriving California, and Islands 2030 – that leverage biodiversity science, environmental learning, and collaborative engagement to regenerate fragile ecosystems around the world. Learn more at https://www.calacademy.org/about-us/major-initiatives.
We are committed to ensuring diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion are intrinsic to Academy culture and operations, from recruitment and retention to science and advocacy.
We hope you are inspired by what we do and are excited to contribute to our mission. The mission of the California Academy of Sciences is to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration. The Academy is looking for candidates who do great work, and we know they may come from a number of different backgrounds and experiences. We encourage you to apply even if you do not believe you meet every one of the qualifications for the position.
This position is based in San Francisco, California. Please do not apply if you are not able to work onsite. Candidates are required to have up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of employment, absent qualifying exemptions in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals receiving a conditional offer of employment from the California Academy of Sciences will be provided the full text of the vaccination policy. The California Academy of Sciences is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace, to protect its employees, volunteers and guests.
About the Building Systems Department:
The Building Systems Department is responsible for overseeing the maintenance and improvements to the buildings Building Management System and aquarium Life Support Systems. The team operates under minimal supervision with projects and freedom to choose improvement projects. We invest heavily into learning and expanding our knowledge base, including conferences and training classes.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Key Responsibilities:
Maintain control system hardware and software in proper working condition which includes HVAC Building Management Systems, Aquarium Life Support Systems controls, lighting controls, security cameras, irrigation, and other industrial hardware and software
Install, program, and commission new automation equipment as required to support Academy operations, programs, and new projects
Troubleshoot, diagnose and repair electronic control system malfunctions
Schedule and complete preventative maintenance tasks on automation equipment
Complete service requests from Stationary Engineers, Operations staff, and other technical departments within the Academy
Wiring and commissioning of low voltage electrical equipment (12 VDC, 24VAC, 120VAC)
Work with Electrical staff as assigned
Follow all Academy safety regulations
Occasional after hours on call, including nights and weekends
Other duties as assigned
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
Skills and Abilities:
Must possess a working knowledge of electrical circuits.
Knowledge of Direct Digital Controls (DDC), automation, and control systems.
Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar engineering or electronic design software.
Basic understanding of computer programming concepts.
Ability to work independently, think on their feet, and solve challenging problems.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to operate under minimal supervision, conducting day-to-day tasks and projects.
Must have excellent time management and organization skills.
Must be able to travel occasionally and be able to work weekends/holidays and evenings as needed.
Education & Experience
Education and Experience: A successful candidate will possess a combination of the following education and/or equivalent experience:
A technical degree in electrical, electronic, or mechanical engineering or a related field; or equivalent working experience.
1-2 years of hands-on experience with building control systems, automation systems management, and programming, including installations and maintenance.
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
Physical Environment:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, sit, walk, and reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear.
Must be able to lift and transport 50 pounds.
Must be able to perform repetitive motions 25% of the time.
Salary & Benefits
Starting salary will vary based on experience and relevant skills/knowledge set. The Academy offers a total compensation package that emphasizes both base salary and comprehensive benefits based on the hours per week worked.
Hourly hiring range: $32.69 - $36.06 per hour
