Freelance Building Automation Programmer Jobs in Detroit, MI

Tech Programmer - Building Automation Systems (BAS)

Conti LLC
Location: Southeast Michigan / Northern Ohio (Field-Based)
Employment Type: Full-Time

About Conti LLC

Conti LLC is a leading provider of building automation, controls, and energy solutions throughout the Midwest. Our Building Automation team delivers controls installation, programming, commissioning, and startup services for commercial and industrial facilities across Southeast Michigan and Northern Ohio.

Unlike many competitors where a single technician is responsible for selling, engineering, programming, and commissioning systems, Conti provides dedicated project managers, engineers, electricians, and support teams so our Tech Programmers can focus on what they do best: bringing systems to life and ensuring successful project execution.

We invest heavily in our people and provide long-term career growth opportunities for individuals looking to build a career in building automation and controls.

Position Summary

Conti LLC is seeking a motivated and technically minded Tech Programmer to support commercial Building Automation System (BAS) projects throughout Southeast Michigan and Northern Ohio.

This role is ideal for candidates with approximately 2-3 years of experience in building automation, controls, commissioning, or HVAC controls, although strong entry-level candidates and experienced senior technicians will also be considered.

The successful candidate will work closely with Project Managers, Engineers, Electricians, and Customers to commission, program, troubleshoot, and startup building automation systems. This position requires a self-starter who can work independently in the field, remain organized, communicate effectively, and solve problems in fast-paced construction environments.

Key Responsibilities

Building Automation Programming & Commissioning

• Program, startup, commission, and troubleshoot Building Automation Systems.
• Configure and integrate HVAC controls, field devices, controllers, and BAS equipment.
• Download, adjust, and verify control programs provided by engineering teams.
• Validate system functionality and ensure performance meets project requirements.
• Interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, sequences of operation, and control schematics.

Field Project Execution

• Travel to project sites throughout Southeast Michigan and Northern Ohio.
• Meet with Conti Project Managers, Engineers, Electricians, General Contractors, and subcontractors.
• Assess site readiness and coordinate startup activities.
• Execute commissioning and startup activities according to project schedules.
• Ensure work is completed safely, accurately, and efficiently.

Troubleshooting & Problem Solving

• Diagnose and resolve system issues during installation and startup.
• Work with engineering teams to identify solutions and implement corrections.
• Remain calm and focused when challenges arise in the field.
• Provide clear documentation of issues, corrective actions, and system status.

Documentation & Communication

• Maintain accurate commissioning reports and project documentation.
• Communicate progress updates with Project Managers and internal teams.
• Document system changes, startup activities, and field observations.
• Coordinate with contractors and customers to support project milestones.

Typical Day

• Review project schedule and weekly goals provided by the Project Manager.
• Travel to project sites.
• Meet with the appropriate Conti team members and review daily objectives.
• Assess installed equipment and system readiness.
• Configure equipment and perform programming or commissioning activities.
• Validate system operation and troubleshoot deficiencies.
• Document completed work and communicate progress to Project Managers.
• Coordinate with electricians, contractors, customers, and other stakeholders throughout the day.

Types of Projects

• Commercial Office Buildings
• Healthcare Facilities
• Industrial Facilities
• Educational Institutions
• Municipal Buildings
• Large Commercial HVAC Control Systems
• Building Automation and Energy Management Systems

Requirements

• 2-3 years of Building Automation, Controls, HVAC Controls, Commissioning, or related experience preferred
• Ability to interpret control drawings and technical documentation
• Strong communication and customer interaction skills
• Mechanical and electrical troubleshooting aptitude
• Valid driver's license
• Reliable personal vehicle for travel to project sites
• Ability to travel throughout Southeast Michigan and Northern Ohio

Preferred Qualifications

Bonus Skills

• Honeywell Controls experience
• Niagara 4 experience
• Niagara AX experience
• Distech Controls experience
• CAD programming experience
• Python programming experience
• C/C++ programming experience
• Previous BAS startup and commissioning experience

Technologies & Platforms

Experience with any of the following is highly desirable:

• Niagara 4
• Niagara AX
• Honeywell Building Automation Systems
• Distech Controls
• HVAC Control Systems
• BAS Programming Platforms
• Field Controllers
• Building Management Systems (BMS)

What Makes Someone Successful at Conti?

Our strongest employees:

• Take ownership of projects
• Show initiative without being micromanaged
• Stay organized under pressure
• Communicate effectively with project teams and customers
• Focus on finding solutions instead of dwelling on problems
• Thrive in fast-paced construction environments
• Desire long-term career growth within the organization

Work Environment

• Approximately 95% field-based role
• Projects located throughout Southeast Michigan and Northern Ohio
• Flexible schedule based on project needs
• Typical site arrival by 8:30 AM, though earlier start times may be required
• Fast-paced, team-oriented atmosphere
• Supported by dedicated Engineers, Project Managers, and Electricians

Additional Benefits Include:

• Gas Card
• Comprehensive Benefits Package
• Long-Term Career Growth Opportunities
• Professional Development and Training
• Exposure to Large Commercial Automation Projects

Join Conti LLC

If you're looking to build a long-term career in Building Automation and want to work with a team that provides the tools, support, and resources necessary for success, we'd like to hear from you. Conti LLC offers a collaborative environment where motivated individuals can continue growing their technical and professional skills while working on some of the region's most exciting commercial automation projects.