DefineHR

Seeking a highly motivated Intermediate to Senior Controls Specialist to join our client's product development team. This role is focused on the design, programming, and implementation of control strategies for our custom HVAC systems. The ideal candidate brings a solid background in DDC and PLC programming, strong understanding of HVAC operation theory, and hands-on experience supporting controls across the product lifecycle from concept to commissioning.

This role is ideally suited for professionals with 10+ years of relevant controls experience. That said, candidates with 5+ years of strong, related experience are also encouraged to apply.

This is a cross-functional role requiring collaboration with mechanical, electrical, test, and field support teams to ensure seamless control integration and robust system performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and program control logic for HVAC systems using PLCs and DDCs.
• Design and implement configurable firmware/software structures to support diverse system configurations with a strong focus on product standardization for scalable products.
• Translate HVAC sequences of operation into practical, reliable, and serviceable control strategies.
• Support QA and validation efforts including unit control testing, simulation, lab testing, and agency certifications.
• Assist field service personnel with troubleshooting, performance tuning, and commissioning support.
• Coordinate with manufacturing teams to ensure design-for-assembly in control panel layouts and wiring harnesses.
• Interface with vendors, customers, and internal stakeholders to define control requirements and resolve technical issues.
• Contribute to multiple new product development (NPD) projects as well as support existing product platforms.

Required Qualifications

Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in controls engineering, ideally within the HVAC or building automation sector.
• Proficient in programming IEC 61131-3 based PLCs (e.g., Carel, Schneider, etc.).
• Hands-on experience with BACnet, Modbus, LONtalk, and IP-based communication protocols – BMS System Integration.
• Strong understanding of HVAC systems, sensors, and control strategies.
• Familiarity with electrical schematics, panel layout, and power distribution.
• Knowledge of UL, CSA, and other compliance standards related to controls and electrical safety.

Skills:

• Excellent problem-solving and diagnostic skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration across disciplines.
• Comfortable using lab tools, simulation software, and troubleshooting platforms.
• Ability to manage workload independently and adapt to evolving project needs.
• Must hold a valid passport and be willing to travel within Canada and the US (approx. 5-20%).

Preferred / Desirable Experience

• Prior work with HVAC control system design and sequence development.
• Experience with variable speed drive (VFD) integration and tuning.
• Exposure to IoT platforms, web services, and modern programming languages (Python, C#, Java, etc.).
• Understanding of electronic control manufacturing methods and mechanical CAD tools.
• Project management exposure or formal training.

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Technical Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Instrumentation or a related discipline.
• Focus on control systems, embedded software, or HVAC applications preferred.

Apply Now

If your experience aligns strongly with what we are looking for, we encourage you to apply.

This team is growing, so we also welcome interest from both more junior and more senior professionals. That said, our immediate outreach will be focused on those whose experience most closely matches the current needs of the role. If we reach out, we will share more details about the role, company, and compensation, and will support you through the process.

If this position is not the right fit today but you are open to a similar opportunity, we still encourage you to apply. We like to keep strong, relevant professionals in our network and on our radar for future roles that may be a better match.