[Hiring] Senior Building Systems Engineer @DataBank (DataBank Holdings)

Role Description

DataBank is seeking a Senior Building Systems Engineer to lead technical operations and service activities across our data center portfolio, with a focus on Building Management Systems (BMS) and Electrical Power Management Systems (EPMS). This is a senior individual contributor role requiring deep expertise in controls engineering, data center operations, and cross-platform integration. The Senior BSE serves as a primary technical authority for complex controls issues, mentors junior team members, and drives portfolio-wide standardization and optimization efforts. Given the varied mechanical and electrical configurations across DataBank sites, candidates must bring extensive data center operational knowledge and the ability to independently lead technical workstreams from problem identification through resolution.

Key Responsibilities

• Controls Leadership & Technical Escalation
  • Serve as the senior technical authority for BMS and EPMS across the DataBank portfolio, leading resolution of complex, high-priority controls issues with urgency and precision.
  • Perform advanced troubleshooting of control sequences, network architectures, protocol integrations, and system interdependencies in live data center environments.
  • Lead on-call escalation response for critical system events, providing both remote and on-site direction as required.
  • Mentor and guide junior and mid-level BSE team members, conducting technical reviews and providing structured coaching.
• New Build Commissioning & Program Leadership
  • Lead controls engineering workstreams for new data center builds and major capital projects, overseeing BMS/EPMS design, configuration, and commissioning from construction through turnover.
  • Ensure seamless integration of controls infrastructure with mechanical and electrical systems, including CRAC/CRAH units, UPS, PDUs, generators, chillers, cooling towers, and switchgear.
  • Review and approve control sequences, graphics, alarming logic, and trending configurations for compliance with project specifications and DataBank standards.
  • Interface with construction managers, commissioning agents, and design engineers to resolve technical issues and align controls deliverables.
• System Programming & Platform Expertise
  • Lead programming, configuration, and troubleshooting of control systems across Tridium/Niagara (N4), Distech Controls, Automated Logic (WebCTRL), and other platform environments.
  • Architect and oversee BMS/EPMS integrations with third-party systems (DCIM, SCADA, fire/life safety, access control) using BACnet, Modbus, SNMP, OPC, and MQTT protocols.
  • Design and implement advanced graphics, dashboards, and automated reporting solutions that enhance operational visibility across the portfolio.
• Portfolio Optimization & Standards Development
  • Conduct portfolio-wide analysis of system performance, alarm trends, and energy consumption to identify risks and opportunities for improvement.
  • Lead energy optimization initiatives including demand response strategies, automated setpoint management, and control sequence enhancements.
  • Drive standardization across sites by developing and enforcing controls playbooks, engineering standards, and best practices.
  • Evaluate existing systems and provide strategic recommendations for upgrades, replacements, and technology roadmap development.
• Compliance, Documentation & Stakeholder Reporting
  • Ensure all BMS/EPMS systems meet applicable codes, safety standards, and DataBank operational guidelines; lead audit and compliance activities.
  • Maintain comprehensive documentation including system configurations, sequence of operations, as-built drawings, and change logs.
  • Produce executive-quality performance reports and present findings and recommendations to facilities leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.
• Collaboration, Training & Mentorship
  • Work cross-functionally with data center operations, data center infrastructure engineers, mechanical/electrical engineers, project managers, and third-party contractors to lead controls strategy alignment.
  • Develop and deliver technical training programs for site operations staff and junior BSE team members on system functionality, alarm response, and controls maintenance.
  • Champion standardization efforts by owning and maintaining DataBank’s controls playbooks, engineering standards, and training materials.
• Leadership & Management Framework
  • Demonstrate leadership behaviors that extend beyond technical expertise and positively influence team performance, knowledge sharing, and operational culture.
  • Proactively mentor junior and mid-level BSE team members through structured guidance, peer review, and knowledge transfer activities.
  • Build credibility and collaborative relationships across operations, construction, commissioning, and infrastructure engineering functions.
  • Take ownership of controls playbooks, engineering standards, and operational procedures; champion their consistent adoption and drive continuous improvement.
  • Model calm, structured problem-solving during high-priority system events; lead post-incident reviews and drive root cause resolution.
  • Identify and advocate for process improvements that reduce operational risk, improve system reliability, and enhance team efficiency across the portfolio.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Building Automation, or a closely related field strongly preferred.
• 8+ years of hands-on experience in building controls engineering with direct focus on BMS and/or EPMS in mission-critical or data center environments.
• Proven, expert-level experience with Tridium/Niagara (N4), Distech Controls (ECLYPSE), and/or Automated Logic (WebCTRL) — platform certifications required.
• Demonstrated ability to independently lead complex troubleshooting, advanced programming, and multi-site commissioning activities.
• Deep familiarity with data center mechanical and electrical systems: CRAC/CRAH, chillers, cooling towers, UPS, PDUs, ATS, generators, and associated controls infrastructure.
• Track record of mentoring technical staff and contributing to engineering standards or playbook development.

Technical Skills

• Expert-level proficiency in controls programming: Niagara Framework (Workbench), Distech ENVYSION, Automated Logic WebCTRL, and/or scripting environments.
• Advanced knowledge of building automation protocols: BACnet IP/MSTP, Modbus TCP/RTU, SNMP, OPC-UA/DA, MQTT, and emerging integration standards.
• Experience with EPMS platforms and enterprise power monitoring systems (Schneider EcoStruxure, Eaton Brightlayer, Vertiv Environet, or similar).
• Strong understanding of HVAC controls, electrical distribution design, and system interdependencies within data center environments.
• Proficiency with DCIM platforms and IT/OT integration; experience with SCADA architectures is a plus.

Certifications (preferred)

• Tridium/Niagara Certification (N4) — required.
• Distech Controls or Automated Logic manufacturer certification — required.
• EPA 608 Universal or applicable HVAC/electrical certifications.
• OSHA 30 (General Industry or Construction).
• LEED AP, Certified Energy Manager (CEM), or equivalent — preferred.

Attributes

• Deep analytical capability with the ability to synthesize data from multiple systems, platforms, and sites to resolve complex issues.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to guide technical discussions and influence decisions across engineering and operations stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to translate complex technical findings into clear, executive-level reporting.
• Highly self-directed with the ability to manage multiple high-priority workstreams across geographically dispersed sites.
• Committed to technical excellence, continuous improvement, and development of the broader BSE team.

Work Environment

This role is primarily remote, with periodic and sometimes frequent site travel to DataBank facilities for commissioning, system assessment, troubleshooting, upgrades, and cross-functional team engagement. Travel frequency will vary based on portfolio activity and project demand. Candidates must be willing and able to work in operational data center environments, including off-hours and on-call responsibilities as required.