JOB POSTINGS

Our growing network is always looking for passionate people who want to make a difference. This jobs list is constantly changing and growing, so be sure to check in periodically to see if there’s a job for you.

Automation Technician

We hope you are inspired by what we do and are excited to contribute to our mission. The Academy is looking for candidates who do great work, and we know they may come from a number of different backgrounds and experiences. We encourage you to apply even if you do not believe you meet every one of the qualifications for the position.

Please note: Beginning Friday, August 27, Academy employees and volunteers will be required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or undergo testing and provide negative test results before they are able to work on-site or off-site with others.

POSITION SUMMARY: 
The Automation Technician is responsible for the operation and maintenance of Building Management Systems (BMS) and Life Support Systems (LSS) automation systems, including hardware and software. This position will work directly with the Building Engineers, Electricians, Experience Engineering and Aquatic Biology departments.

This position works alongside other trades and academy departments as necessary coordinating maintenance and project priorities. This position reports to the Electrical and Automation Manager.

We are committed to ensuring diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion are intrinsic to Academy culture and operations, from recruitment and retention to science and advocacy. Explore Our Commitment to Racial Equity to learn about our intentional engagement of traditionally excluded groups in an effort to spark interest in or foster pathways to scientific careers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS:

  • Maintain control system hardware and software in proper working condition.  This includes  HVAC Building Management Systems, Aquarium Life Support Systems controls, lighting controls, security cameras, irrigation, and other industrial hardware and software
  • Install, program, and commission new automation equipment as required to support Academy operations and programs
  • Schedule and complete maintenance tasks on automation equipment
  • Complete service requests from Stationary Engineers, Operations staff, and other technical departments within the Academy
  • Work with Electrical staff as assigned
  • Follow all Academy safety regulations 
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS: 

EXPERIENCE and/or EDUCATION:
A qualified candidate will possess a combination of the following education and/or equivalent experience:

  • 1-2 years of hands-on experience with building control systems, automation systems management, and programming, including installations and maintenance
  • Coursework toward a technical degree in electrical, electronic, or mechanical engineering or related field; or equivalent working experience a plus but not required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: 

  • Must possess a working knowledge of electrical circuits
  • Knowledge of Direct Digital Controls (DDC), automation, control systems
  • Proficiency with AutoCad or similar engineering or electronic design software
  • Basic understanding of computer programming concepts
  • Ability to work independently, think on their feet and solve challenging problems
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Self-starter willing to accept responsibility and drive projects forward
  • Must have excellent time management and  organization skills
  • Must be able to travel occasionally and be able to work weekends/holidays and evenings as needed

LANGUAGE SKILLS:
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, engineering and electrical schematic drawings, and procedure manuals.  Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.  Ability to speak effectively before groups or individuals.  Bilingual (spoken and/or written) in Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, or other non-English language preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, sit, walk, and reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear. Must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds. Must be able to perform repetitive motions 25% of the time.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open until filled. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis through that date until the position is filled.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Please upload a resume and complete the brief online application here.

The California Academy of Sciences will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. For more information visit: https://sfgov.org/olse/fair-chance-ordinance-fco.

The California Academy of Sciences is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to ensure that all employees and applicants receive equal consideration and treatment, regardless of race, color, creed, gender (including gender identity or gender expression), religion, marital or domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical, mental or medical disability, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship, military service status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law or local ordinance.