1

Freelance Building Automation Programmer Jobs in Michigan

As a Building Automation Specialist, you will play an important role in programming, integrating ... You will work closely with Sales Engineers, Project Managers, customers, and internal technical ...

Maintains building automation system including lifecycle management, modification and ... Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Control Systems field with four (4) years professional ...

About Automation Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you energized by solving technical problems, building automation systems, and making a real impact in the life sciences space? As an Automation ...

About Automation Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you energized by solving technical problems, building automation systems, and making a real impact in the life sciences space? As an Automation ...

New

About Automation Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you energized by solving technical problems, building automation systems, and making a real impact in the life sciences space? As an Automation ...

About Automation Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you energized by solving technical problems, building automation systems, and making a real impact in the life sciences space? As an Automation ...

New

About Automation Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you energized by solving technical problems, building automation systems, and making a real impact in the life sciences space? As an Automation ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Freelance Building Automation Programmer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Building Automation Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Building Automation Programmer, you need expertise in HVAC systems, controls programming, and a solid understanding of electrical and mechanical engineering principles, often supported by a relevant technical degree or certification. Familiarity with industry-standard platforms such as BACnet, LonWorks, Tridium Niagara, and tools like AutoCAD and PLC programming software is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, self-management, and effective client communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure accurate system integration, client satisfaction, and the successful delivery of complex automation projects.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance building automation programmers, and how can they be overcome?

Freelance building automation programmers often encounter challenges such as integrating diverse systems from multiple manufacturers and keeping up with frequent updates in automation protocols. Managing client expectations and project timelines can also be demanding, especially when working remotely or with limited onsite access. To overcome these obstacles, it's important to stay current with industry certifications, develop strong communication skills for client coordination, and build a reliable network of contacts for technical support. Efficient project management tools and regular professional development can also help freelancers succeed in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Freelance Building Automation Programmer vs Building Automation Technician?

AspectFreelance Building Automation ProgrammerBuilding Automation Technician
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in programming, networking, and building automation systemsOften holds technical certifications or trade licenses related to system installation and maintenance
Work EnvironmentWorks independently or with clients, often remotely or on-site for specific projectsPrimarily on-site, maintaining and troubleshooting automation systems
Employer & Industry UsageFreelancers serve multiple clients across commercial, industrial, and institutional sectorsEmployed by facilities or service companies to perform routine system upkeep

While both roles involve building automation systems, Freelance Building Automation Programmers focus on designing and customizing control software, often working independently. Building Automation Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of these systems on-site. The roles complement each other but differ mainly in scope and work setting.

What is a Freelance Building Automation Programmer?

A Freelance Building Automation Programmer is a professional who specializes in designing, programming, and troubleshooting automated control systems for buildings on a contract or project basis. They work with systems such as HVAC, lighting, security, and energy management to ensure buildings operate efficiently and comfortably. Unlike full-time employees, freelancers are typically hired for specific projects or timeframes and may work with multiple clients. Their expertise helps optimize building performance, reduce operational costs, and integrate new technologies into existing infrastructure.
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Automation Programmer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Building Automation Programmer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Building Automation Programmer jobs in Michigan? For Freelance Building Automation Programmer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Building Automation Programmer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Building Automation Programmer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Freelance Building Automation Programmer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Freelance Building Automation Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Freelance Building Automation Programmer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.
Building Automation Specialist

$98K/yr

Other

Re-posted 22 days ago


Eastern Michigan University rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

484th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Building Automation Specialist

Apply now Job no: 495345
Work type: Staff Full Time
Location: Ypsilanti
Categories: Business & Finance

Title: Building Automation Specialist

Employee Classification: FM

Pay Grade: FM 24

Division: Business and Finance

Subdivision: General Maint and Repr

Department: Facilities

Campus Location: Main Campus

General Summary

Position is responsible for the monitoring, adjustment, programming, repair, and maintenance of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) automation and building integration systems. Position requires a variety of skilled and technical work related to the maintenance, repair, programming, and installation of HVAC/R automation and building integration systems and associated components.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

  • Install, repair, and maintain DDC equipment related to HVAC/R and building integration systems.
  • Use a workstation or portable terminal to command points, evaluate programs, backup databases, and update changes or additions to the databases.
  • Use automated building management software to monitor, troubleshoot, correct, modify, and improve HVAC/R and building integration systems operations.
  • Interpret, modify, and write software to control HVAC/R and building integration systems and equipment.
  • Evaluate sequences of operation and assess the probability of the sequences functioning properly with DDC, pneumatic, and electric control systems when applied to HVAC/R equipment.
  • Create, modify, and update computer graphic displays as needed to accommodate system additions and modifications.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, diagrams, drawings, manufacturers' specifications, and written and verbal instructions related to HVAC/R and building integration systems.
  • Assist the Principle Plant Engineer-Energy Conservation and Sustainability with reviewing, developing, evaluating, and implementing energy conservation and sustainability initiatives.
  • Diagnose HVAC and building integration system problems, including verifying operations of dampers, valves, actuators, coils, fans, pumps, heat exchangers, VAV boxes, airflow devices, water flow devices, thermostats, and other HVAC/R components.
  • Prepare reports and maintain records and logs as may be required. Plan and coordinate work and procure materials and equipment required to install new systems and repair and maintain existing systems.
  • Reclaim and recharge refrigerant systems as needed.
  • Use basic hand and power tools.
  • Operate motor vehicles.
  • Perform periodic visual inspections and maintain cleanliness of work and storage areas, mechanical rooms and all tools, vehicles and equipment used in the performance of duties.
  • Report any damage, malfunction, irregularities, or potential hazards in buildings, grounds, equipment, vehicles, or supplies to supervisor.
  • Perform related departmental duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

Proficiency in reading, writing, and mathematical processes typically acquired through the completion of a high school education and associated technical training is necessary.
An Associate Degree in HVAC or documented, advanced factory training in DDC and/or building integration systems is required.
Three (3) years within the last Five (5) years of verifiable, directly related work experience performing the installation, inspection, testing, programming, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration automation and building integration systems is necessary.
Three (3) years within the last five (5) years of verifiable experience with Trane Tracer Summit, Johnson Metasys, Honeywell Excel 5000/EBI, BACnet, LonWorks, and/or other building automation systems including configuration and programming is required.
Experience in programming building automation and building integration systems including web based, proprietary, and library based languages.
Personal computer skills utilizing word processing and spreadsheet applications, CAD applications, and file management functions are necessary.
Possession of a valid Michigan Driver's license is necessary.
Ability to meet departmental standards of reasonable personal hygiene is necessary.
The ability to perform physically active work of a medium nature, requiring frequent walking, climbing, pushing, pulling, stooping, kneeling and crouching activity to performing routine work functions and lifting requiring up to 50 pounds frequently and occasionally 100 pounds of force to move and/or transport equipment and supplies is necessary.
EPA Section 608, Universal Refrigerant Certification is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

R410a Certification is desirable.

Additional Information:

Salary: FM 24 = $47.12 an hour/$98,010.00 annually.

Shift: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM

Location: Physical Plant

Appointment Percentage:

100%

Advertised: 07 Oct 2025 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend

Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What Eastern Michigan University employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom