TITLE: Automation Technician (1st Shift)
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 

POSITION OVERVIEW:  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 with outside 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 include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.   

• 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 escalate 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. 

QUALIFICATIONS: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 

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 Automation Systems), and Preventive Maintenance Software. 

Physical Demands: 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. 
• Sit, stand, stoop, and walk as required. 

Work Environment: 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those and employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

The employee may be exposed to: 

• Water, heat, cold, air particles, and smoke 
• Falling material, electrical shock, hazardous chemicals, and fire 
• Emergency vehicle traffic and variable noise levels (low to loud) 

BENEFITS OF WORKING AT SHEDD: We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization. 

• Medical Insurance, including FSA and HSA plan options
• Vision and Dental Insurance 
• Accrued Paid Time Off 
• Up to 12 Paid Holidays 
• Life Insurance 
• Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
• 401(k)
• Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Wellness program, including Preventive Care Incentive 
• Employee Discounts
• Employee Tickets 

Reasonable Accommodations: 
Shedd Aquarium is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at jobs@sheddaquarium.org. 

We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.