Freelance Remote Building Automation Jobs in Virginia

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

AECOM is actively seeking a highly motivated Data Center Control System Designer to join our Buildings and Places (B+P) group in our Arlington, VA office; however, this position can be fully Remote. This position will design state-of-the-art automation and SCADA systems for mechanical and electrical systems for complex data center and mission critical infrastructure projects across the globe.

This position offers the flexibility of a remote work schedule and can be based from a variety of locations in the US where AECOM has an office.

Although the position is primarily remote periodic travel may be required for client meetings, key project milestones, onsite collaboration sessions, or other businesscritical activities. Travel is expected to be occasional and scheduled in advance

AECOM is a leader in the global data center consulting industry with robust teams in the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia.  In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with our teams around the world on high-profile, fast-paced data center projects for global clients.  This is a hands-on, client-facing role with an opportunity for upward career mobility.  

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate with mechanical design team to develop control sequences, diagrams, and points lists for mechanical systems serving both building and process systems.
• Coordinate with electrical design team on the development of network architectures and points lists for electrical distribution and conditioning systems.
• Coordinate with Information and Communications Technology (ICT) design team to coordinate structured ethernet cabling interfaces to control panels and end devices.
• Design resilient operational technology (OT) networks for control systems including both ethernet and serial networks utilizing various media (wireless, fiber, copper).
• Develop basis of design (BOD) for building automation system (BAS), programmable logic controllers (PLC) and power monitoring system (PMS) controllers, instrumentation and software including datasheets.
• Develop and tailor division 23 and 25 controls, instrumentation, and cyber security technical specifications in alignment with BOD.
• Develop and tailor division 26 power monitoring specifications including coordination with electrical team for specification of factory-mounted systems on distribution equipment for compatibility.
• Familiar with modern control system protocols for BAS, EPMS, & PLC - i.e. Modbus, BACnet, EtherNet/IP, etc., along with proper applications and network requirements for specification.
• Verify compliance with applicable US codes and engineering standards/practices.
• Ability to work with templated models for system deployment, tracking and justifying all changes from client's models.
• Coordinate with other disciplines as needed for a cohesive and well-coordinated design.
• Work flexible hours to attend project meetings/calls
• Be detail-oriented and technical yet experienced enough to see the big picture.
• Schedule and meet budget expectations.
• Multi-task and be flexible, along with ability to adapt to project deadlines.
• Have passion and enthusiasm for design in a collaborative and progressive team-oriented work environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree with 6 plus years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and or education.
• Four years of work experience as an Instrumentation and Control Engineer (I&C) Engineer or controls contractor creating controls submittals.
• Experience with BAS & PLC control system platforms.
• Experience with Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (PMS/EPMS)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree Technology, Electrical, Mechanical or equivalent
• Demonstrated experience with colocation and hyperscale data center projects.
• Experience with US codes and standards.
• Experience with data center or other mission critical environments
• Experience with Operational Technology Networks
• Experience with SCADA platforms and specifying technical cybersecurity requirements

• Relocation is not available for this role
• Sponsorship is not available for this role
• THIS POSTING IS FOR A CURRENT VACANCY, AND AECOM INTENDS TO FILL THIS POSITION BY NOVEMBER 9, 2026.

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.