HVAC Controls Specialist at Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla, California

Job Description:

Job Summary

Under limited supervision, the Facilities Control Specialists are responsible for the installation, maintenance and adjustment, and repair of electric, electronic, pneumatic, and digitally controlled building automation systems which manage the most complex HVAC and refrigeration systems. This position monitors, troubleshoots, designs, modifies, calibrates, and programs system features and responds to technical and mechanical problems, either remotely or on-site. The individual must be thoroughly conversant in the software operation of the applicable building automation system and have the journey-level skills and experience to allow for the diagnosis, repair and maintenance of complex HVAC systems and their components. 

The incumbent acts independently and responds with acquired skills, exercising Institute and professionally established safety precautions. 

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces diverse perspectives and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community comprises a diverse and talented group of individuals, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members, the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Installs, modifies, adjusts, and repairs computer-based heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment and systems, including air-handling units, fan coil units, hydronic heating systems, variable frequency drives (VFD), ultrasonic flow meters, various direct digital control (DDC), and pneumatic controls components. Suggest and implement, as necessary, methods for better control of systems to optimize control of systems, comfort and/or energy savings.


• Fabricates and implements programs or building control strategies for digitally controlled or global supervisory controlled systems.


• Troubleshoots, designs, modifies programs, and monitor and collect data for building automation systems.


• Repairs and maintains individual hardware and software components of applicable


• Performs minor-to-major overhauls, which include, but are not limited to: disassembling and inspecting of all parts, replacing worn and defective parts, reassembling of all equipment and controls, and testing to ensure proper function.


• Performs major-to-minor repairs of microprocessor-based automation system that monitors and controls building environments.


• Installs electrical conduit, power feeds, and controls for a wide range of systems and various equipment.


• Installs network cables and terminations.


• Utilizes plans and own knowledge to determine how and where to fabricate, assemble and install sheet metal products such as air ducts, reheat systems, supports and control boxes.


• Installs gauges, valves and various types of pipes which may require soldering, brazing, threading and gluing.


• Replaces air filters and water filters.


• Responds to service requests and diagnose and troubleshoot system problems and correct as necessary.


• Serves as department specialist on building automation systems.


• Observe functioning of equipment to detect hazards, adjusts, relocates, and replaces as necessary.


• Performs a variety of routine manual duties as required, such as moving supplies, furniture, equipment, removing trash, scrap material, sweeping and mopping, etc.


• Provides work direction to lower-level technicians, and act as supervisor in the absence of the Supervisor of Facility Services as directed and prioritize own work schedule.


• Prepare routing reports, schematics, and diagrams in laying out work areas and make estimates of time and materials needed for task.


• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.


• Performs work in other skilled trades as assigned by management.

What we Require

• 5 years of training and experience in Building Automation Systems plus at least 1 year of trade/vocational education or apprenticeship.


• High school diploma or general education degree (GED).


• 1 year of trade/vocational education or combination of progressively responsible training and experience which demonstrates achievement of journey-level skills equivalent to those acquired through completion of a standard electrician’s apprenticeship program.


• Computer skills required: Microsoft Office; Project Management Software.


• Other skills required:
  
  
  • Demonstrated ability to read construction drawings and documentation.
  
  
  
  


• Certificates, licenses, and registrations required: Must be willing to maintain First Aid/CPR/AED training/certification.


• Satisfactory completion of the post-offer physical required.


• Must be able to use ladders to provide access to work areas and work from heights.

What We Can Offer

The expected pay range for this position is $32.45 to $36.50 per hour. Salk Institute provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the institute reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

Benefits

Salk Institute offers competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, patient advocacy services, and transit/parking program.

Salk Values

The Salk Community, both scientists and administrators, worked together to define values that we believe support Salk’s pursuit of excellence. To be truly the best scientific institution requires not only incredible discoveries, but a common understanding of how we should work together to enable those discoveries.

The acronym “I CARE” provides a simple way to remember each of the values and reminds each of us of the importance of what we do each day.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Salk Institute for Biological Studies is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal access to opportunities for students, employees, applicants for employment and other visitors. Salk has also adopted and maintains a policy to encourage professional and respectful workplace behavior and prevent discriminatory and harassing conduct in our workplace.

Accordingly, the Institute prohibits harassment and discrimination in employment on the basis of, and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to, actual or perceived race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, marital status, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, veteran and/or military status (disabled veteran, veteran of the Vietnam era, other covered veteran status), political affiliation, and any other status protected by state or federal law.