Field Engineering Technician
The Field Engineering Technician is responsible for commissioning and starting up advanced building automation systems at a state-of-the-art data center, focusing on HVAC, chiller plant controls, and energy monitoring. This hands-on role involves system diagnostics, troubleshooting, customer training, and collaboration with contractors to ensure reliable and efficient operation of critical building systems. The position offers extensive training and career growth opportunities within field engineering, requiring strong technical skills and effective communication on-site in Dallas, TX.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering & Sciences Services.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
This Field Engineering Technician role focuses on field commissioning and startup of building automation and data center systems using Direct Digital Control (DDC) technology. You will perform hands-on commissioning, diagnostics, software/configuration tasks, and customer-facing training and support on critical HVAC, chiller plant, energy monitoring, and related control systems for a major data center project based in Highland Park, TX. This is a Contract-to-Hire position with clear training and growth paths into advanced field engineering roles.
What You’ll Do
You will join the onsite field team to execute commissioning and start-up activities for building automation and controls systems. Key responsibilities include:
- Commission and startup building automation systems for chiller plants, HVAC, energy monitoring, lighting, demand response, indoor air quality, humidity and temperature control, and elevator performance.
- Use an iPad and company tools to navigate control system settings, run diagnostics, validate operation, and troubleshoot issues.
- Perform DDC-side equipment startups and provide commissioning support (no front-end engineering/design required).
- Follow and update building automation drawing packages to reflect as-built conditions.
- Install, initiate, troubleshoot, and optimize systems that rely on advanced DDC technology.
- Act as the local technical contact for system-related issues and provide leadership in the field.
- Deliver turnkey execution on small to medium projects from startup through final commissioning.
- Load software, configure trends, set alarms, and generate reports to validate system performance.
- Use electrical multi-meters and diagnostic tools to troubleshoot electrical/control circuits tied to HVAC and automation systems.
- Check out sensors, valves, damper motors, relays, VFDs, and other control devices to ensure proper installation and operation.
- Read and interpret HVAC mechanical prints and control drawings to guide field activities.
- Provide site-specific training to owners/operators on system operation, monitoring, and basic troubleshooting.
- Document field changes, test results, and commissioning outcomes to support project closeout and future service needs.
- Collaborate with contractors and trades to coordinate testing and commissioning activities.
- Mentor and assist less experienced Field Engineers as part of on-the-job training and development.
Who We’re Looking For (Essential Qualifications)
Candidates should demonstrate a mix of technical curiosity, hands-on skills, and the ability to work in a field-based construction environment. Typical qualifications:
- 0–2 years experience welcomed for entry-level candidates; more experienced technicians and senior field engineers are encouraged to apply.
- Fundamental understanding of HVAC systems and mechanical equipment (chillers, boilers, RTUs, air handlers, VAVs).
- Basic electrical troubleshooting skills and familiarity using an electrical multi-meter.
- Knowledge of actuators, sensors, relays, and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and their role in controls systems.
- Ability to step into active projects and bring systems online alongside customers and contractors.
- Strong self-drive, curiosity, and ability to learn quickly in the field.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to be insured under company policy.
- Willingness and ability to work 10-hour days and most Saturdays as needed by project schedules.
- Comfortable using tablets and laptops for diagnostics, commissioning, and reporting.
Additional Skills & Preferred Qualifications
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, technical certificate, or related training in HVAC, controls, mechanical engineering, or similar field preferred.
- Experience with building automation software (examples: WebCTRL or similar platforms).
- Prior field technician experience in building automation, HVAC controls, or electrical controls environments.
- Experience on new-build construction projects and large-scale data center or critical facilities is beneficial.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with customers, contractors, and internal teams.
- Interest in long-term career growth into advanced Field Engineer levels, supervision, or project management.
Work Environment & Travel
- This role is based onsite in Highland Park, TX for a major data center project. The assignment is anticipated to last approximately 1–3 years, with potential follow-on opportunities supporting other local or regional projects.
- Typical workdays are 10 hours; most Saturdays may be required to meet project milestones.
- Some regional travel may be required for training and brief assignments; travel can include multi-day site stays.
- The position provides company equipment (tablet/laptop, diagnostic tools) and extensive classroom + hands-on training (approximately three weeks of initial training, plus field shadowing prior to mobilization).
Compensation & Benefits
- Hourly pay range: $30.00 – $55.00 per hour. Actual pay offered within this range will depend on qualifications, experience, location, internal equity, and other job-related factors.
- Benefits (subject to eligibility and change) may include:
- Medical, dental & vision
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital Plans
- 401(k) retirement plan (pre-tax and Roth options)
- Voluntary life & AD&D insurance
- Short- and long-term disability
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Mileage reimbursement and per diem for travel where applicable
- Overtime pay where applicable
- Paid time off and holiday pay
Employment Type & Location
- Employment type: Contract-to-Hire (initial contract with opportunity for direct hire by the client).
- Workplace: Fully onsite in Highland Park, TX.
Compliance, Accommodations & Screening
Confidential Client (via Careertakes) is committed to fair and lawful hiring practices. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process due to a disability, please contact Careertakes for assistance. Background checks and verifications may be required where permitted by law; any such checks will comply with applicable federal and state regulations.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range