Building Automation
Building Automation is a system that helps control and monitor various parts of a building automatically, like heating, cooling, lighting, and security. Think of it as a building's "brain" that manages everything to make the building more comfortable, energy-efficient, and secure. Instead of having staff manually adjust temperatures or turn lights on and off, these systems do it automatically based on schedules, occupancy, or other conditions. This is becoming increasingly important in modern buildings as property managers look to reduce energy costs and improve tenant comfort.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Building Automation System upgrade project across 12 commercial properties
Reduced energy costs by 30% through implementation of Building Automation controls
Supervised maintenance team responsible for BAS operations and troubleshooting
Implemented new Building Automation Controls for HVAC and lighting systems
Typical job title: "Building Automation Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Building Automation Specialists
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a building automation strategy for a large commercial building?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that discuss assessing current systems, energy efficiency goals, budget considerations, choosing appropriate technologies, and creating implementation phases. They should mention coordination with different departments and consideration of tenant needs.
Q: How do you handle emergency situations related to building automation system failures?
Expected Answer: Strong answers should include having backup plans, emergency response procedures, team coordination, and experience with troubleshooting major system issues while maintaining building operations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What experience do you have with energy management through building automation?
Expected Answer: Should discuss practical experience with scheduling systems, temperature control, lighting automation, and examples of achieving energy savings through automation.
Q: How do you ensure proper maintenance of building automation systems?
Expected Answer: Should mention regular system checks, preventive maintenance schedules, monitoring system performance, and coordinating with maintenance teams.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of a building automation system?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic elements like temperature sensors, controllers, automation software, and how they work together to control building systems.
Q: How do you monitor building automation system performance?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic monitoring tasks, reading system reports, identifying common issues, and when to escalate problems to senior staff.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of building systems
- Monitoring automation systems
- Simple troubleshooting
- Reading building controls data
Mid (2-5 years)
- System programming and configuration
- Energy efficiency optimization
- Preventive maintenance planning
- Integration of different building systems
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic system planning
- Project management
- Team supervision
- Budget management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with building systems
- Lack of understanding of basic HVAC principles
- Poor communication skills with building staff and tenants
- No experience with energy management
- Unable to read building plans or system diagrams
