Automation Technician
Listed on 2026-03-01
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Engineering
Electrical Engineering, HVAC Tech / Heating Engineer, Maintenance Technician / Mechanic, Automation Engineering
TITLE: Automation Technician
DEPARTMENT: Facilities
REPORTS TO: Director of Facilities Technology & System Operations
STATUS: Full-time, Non-Exempt
PAY RATE:$40.00 - $45.00/hour
LOCATION: Chicago, Onsite
Schedule/Shift- 1st Shift: 7:00 am – 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday
- Training: First week on 1st Shift (M–F) for onboarding
The Automation Technician is responsible for reviewing, testing, and making improvements to the building automation systems. This includes but is not limited to the automation components, sensors, and infrastructure associated with the building’s mechanical, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, life support, and security systems that support the Shedd Aquarium’s Security and Facilities staff. The Automation Technician will work with O&M staff to review issues that arise with equipment, troubleshoot components or automation programs, and make adjustments accordingly.
The Automation Technician will work without side vendors to review BAS and security system components, review obsolescence, and plan for future capital projection updates. The Automation Technician will work with Shedd Technology staff to perform system integration, maintenance, and upgrades, deliver software updates, and ensure the security and compliance needs of BAS systems are being met. This position will report to the Director of Facilities Technology and System Operations.
This position ensures safe, efficient, and reliable facility performance while supporting animal health, guest safety, and overall operational excellence. The Automation Technician will utilize the CMMS system to receive work orders and to schedule replacement of failed components with O&M staff.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES- Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission, and values.
- Program building automation systems
- Work on field controllers, computers, and instrumentation equipment
- Work on variable voltage controls systems including 0-10v, 2-10v, 4-20mA, and Feedback
- Make adjustments to the graphical interfaces in the BAS
- Review the camera function within the Security Systems. Assess for Operational Improvements.
- Review and catalog the Facility’s Technology components for the Network Infrastructure team in IT
- Provide oversight of building automation systems, ensuring optimal performance; recommend and obtain estimates for upgrades to improve efficiency and sustainability via capital project improvements.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all repairs, preventive maintenance, and operational logs.
- Support environmental quality monitoring and ensure parameters remain within designated levels for aquatic life and guest comfort.
- Participate in facility remodels, exhibit construction, and other long-term planning initiatives, including project management of Facilities Technology improvements.
- Perform troubleshooting of assigned out of service equipment and correct issues, act as an escalation point for inexperienced technicians, and elevate to leadership and/or vendors as needed for additional troubleshooting.
- Cultivate and maintain a positive working environment with effective communication across staff, leadership, and volunteers.
- Respond to emergencies and immediately recognize and address system shortcomings or failures.
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree or Physical Engineering license in Electrical, Mechanical, or Computer Engineering preferred.
- Automation Technologist, Robotics, Engineering Technician, or other technical certification required.
Experience:
- 2+ years of experience in facilities maintenance, including BAS systems, facility/plant engineering, and/or filtration systems.
- Strong knowledge of control systems and computer programming when related to hydraulics, mechanical/electrical systems, HVAC, fluid handling/pumping, and life support operations.
- Ability to effectively collaborate with staff at all levels and external partners.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to interpret complex technical instructions and prepare clear reports and correspondence.
- Proficiency with basic mathematics and intermediate accounting for project budgeting.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, Microsoft 365, BAS (Building…
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