How to become A Smart Building Technician

Commercial builders and private home builders alike are looking at automation as the future of construction. Smart Building Technicians help them put together effectively green facilities and homes that use less energy from lighting and security to heating and air.

• Intelligent Building Technician
• Building Automation Systems Technician
• Access Control Technician
• Builder Installation Technician

What do Smart Building Technicians do?

A Smart Building Technician would typically need to:

• Assess building system performance against designed operating parameters and implement necessary changes to ensure efficient and effective energy performance
• Troubleshoot, debug, monitor and revise software for building control systems such as HVAC, utility meters, lighting and internet addressable thermostats
• Use appropriate equipment to take flow and pressure measurements for air and water HVAC systems
• Solve complex problems related to the control systems that direct the operation of building heating, ventilation, air conditioning and equipment
• Develop repair strategies for bringing the building systems back within the designed control parameters for improved performance
• Program advanced control equipment and building automation systems to implement essential changes that match building and occupant requirements
• Maintain digital, electronic, pneumatic, lighting and utility metering control systems; identify malfunctioning equipment and initiate work orders/projects to repair or replace it
• Connect new equipment, components and sensors into the building control system; implement scheduled operations for daily use
• Interface with customers, architects, engineers and contractors in the design of capital and repair/renovation operations from project start-up to commissioning
• Engage in the building commissioning process after a project to ensure the proper functioning of building control systems and equipment
• Train, assist or assign tasks to others; provide input to performance reviews of colleagues

Smart Building Technicians work at a computer in an office when they design and develop smart building concepts and solutions in collaboration with other professionals. They would need to spend time on-site to ensure the efficient implementation of their plans. 

The job requires considerable standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crawling and climbing. Consultants may need to travel during the workday to the offices or worksites of their customers.

Most Smart Building Technicians work within regular business hours but expect to be on-call and return to the worksite whenever required. 

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Smart Building Technicians can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting employers directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Smart Building Technicians are generally employed by:

• Construction Companies
• Hi-Tech Companies
• Security Agencies
• Government Agencies
• Educational Institutions
• Healthcare Facilities
• Manufacturing Organisations
• Equipment Manufacturers
• Environmental Agencies

Professional associations and organisations such as the International Society for Automation are crucial for a Smart Building Technician interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.

Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• The need to lift and move around heavy equipment while on one’s feet or in awkward positions; constant focus required to overcome high probability of injury
• Exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, dirt and chemicals
• Interruptions beyond one’s control may offset externally imposed deadlines
• Fast-paced and emotionally charged atmosphere which may require regular conflict resolution

Any academic program that a potential Smart Building Technician takes up typically requires a period of supervised experience, such as an internship. It provides students with the opportunities to receive considerable hands-on training lasting over 350 hours before hitting the field. 

An internship will help the students gain experience in everything from wiring HVAC sensors to lighting controls and bringing the systems online for automation.

Since this is a relatively new field with tremendous possibilities, local and regional automation companies are increasingly tying up with education providers to offer students highly sought-after internships.

Prior work experience in control systems, specifically HVAC, electrical, plumbing or plant operations, will prove advantageous. Sometimes, employers accept significantly experienced applicants even if they do not possess the required academic qualifications.

Read about the profession and interview/shadow experts in smart building technology to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

Aspiring Smart Building Technicians require a diploma or an associate degree in smart building technology, automation engineering technology, control systems, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electrical, digital electronics or energy management.

The students will gain knowledge in both mechanical, electrical and electronic systems. They will learn everything from computers to effective communication to ensure they excel in their careers.

Take college preparatory courses in computers, maths and sciences in high school. English and speech classes will help you develop your research, writing, and oral communication skills.

Smart Building Technicians acquire certification in automation engineering technology. Their area of specialisation determines whether the program focuses on HVAC control systems & management or multimedia & security systems in residential, commercial and industrial applications. 

Certification from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market and allow you to become an independent consultant. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

In addition to a valid driver’s license, typically, Smart Building Technicians require an electrician journeyman’s license and a plumber journeyman’s license. Typically, licensure requires an application, processing fees, an examination, and relevant education and experience. 

Some employers may prefer a background check. An employment background check can include but is not limited to a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle reports (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media, and drug screening.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive the career progression of Smart Building Technicians. Advancement routes include becoming a Test & Balance Technician or Senior Operations Systems Analyst.

You can branch out as a consultant Commissioning Specialist or specialise as a Stationary Engineer or Energy Analyst. 

Smart Building Technicians with exemplary marketing, sales and customer service skills may opt for roles such as Equipment Manufacturer Representative, Customer Sales Representative & Estimator or Commercial Service Technician.

Those wishful of training future generations of  Smart Building Technicians may become HVAC Instructors.

Candidates with an associate degree in automation technology and significant experience have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Smart Building Technician build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. 

Obtaining a bachelor’s or master’s degree will help you specialise in a specific area and advance your career. Roles such as equipment manufacturer representatives will require specialised manufacturer training. 

You will also benefit from additional experience in those specific fields when applying for roles that combine your technical expertise with sales or customer service.

CPD allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge. It also helps meet and maintain training and certification requirements.

Why Smart Buildings?

Smart buildings are safer, greener, more efficient and more comfortable - no wonder then that there is an increasing demand for such structures in the commercial and residential sectors.

What Makes Smart Building Technicians so Smart?

They acquire the skills to install, program, troubleshoot, and repair the systems that control everything from security cameras, burglar alarms, climate to lighting in homes, as well as surveillance systems and perimeter fences for commercial properties.

They combine electronics, networking, security, surveillance and communication skills to study a whole gamut of subjects from structured wiring to project management.

Future of the Industry

In all countries which seek to go carbon neutral by a set date, there is a growing awareness that 40 per cent of global energy is used to heat or cool, light and run currently occupied buildings. The building industry is one of the worst carbon offenders and offers the most extensive opportunities for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Smart Building Technicians have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Smart Building Technician has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

Over three million homes and 650,000 buildings are using building automation, just in the US.

Smart Building Technicians help humanity take the critical steps to make their existence on this planet a viable option. They have the skills to answer the demand in a field that’s only just scratching the surface of what is possible in a sustainable manner. 

Work part-time at local retail, restaurant or other such businesses to gain customer service skills to boost your professionalism and support your career goals.