Engineering Services Apprentice (FT-PAC)

Salary : $35,147.00 - $46,569.00 Annually
Location : Palatka Campus
Job Type: Full-Time
Department: Physical Plant/Maintenance - Gen
Opening Date: 03/30/2026
Closing Date: 6/30/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
FLSA: Non-Exempt


Class and Grade


Para-Professional Grade 111

Position Summary


The Engineering Services Apprentice (ESA) is an entry-level position that provides hands-on training and progressive responsibility in maintaining and monitoring HVAC systems, electrical systems, and related equipment across all SJR State College campuses and the Workforce Training Center. The ESA supports the College's operational mission by ensuring facilities systems are functioning efficiently and safely while developing technical skills in HVAC and electrical maintenance.

About the College -
SJR State is a public college located in beautiful northeast Florida along the shores of the St. Johns River. With three campuses in Clay, Putnam, and St. Johns counties, SJR State serves nearly 10,000 students each year from among a population base of 600,000 in one of the fastest-growing areas of the country. Known for its natural beauty and quality of life, SJR State's service area includes St. Augustine, the nation's oldest city; Palatka, the "Gem City of the St. Johns;" and Orange Park, with roots going back to the Spanish period in Florida history.

SJR State offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes employer contributions to retirement and health insurance; dental, vision, and life insurance plans; generous paid time off; employee assistance, wellness programs and tuition assistance. More information about benefits can be found at:
Duties and Responsibilities

HVAC and Mechanical Maintenance

• • Perform routine scheduled preventative maintenance on HVAC equipment, including:
    
    • • Changing air filters
      • Replacing drive motors, belts, and bearings
      • Cleaning heating and cooling coils
  • Clean and maintain condensate systems, including drain pans, pumps, and lines
  • Conduct system performance checks and report deficiencies
  • Assist in maintaining proper calibration of temperature controls, pressure gauges, and thermometers

Electrical and Systems Support

• • Assist in performing basic electrical maintenance and repairs on:
    
    • • Interior and exterior lighting systems
      • Time clock systems
      • Communication and data/Wi-Fi systems
      • Electrical heaters, exhaust fans, and pump motors
      • Access control systems and HVAC-related electrical components

Work Order and Operational Support

• • Utilize the College's electronic work order system daily to:
    
    • • Record completed work
      • Track assignments and workload
  • Perform related duties as assigned, including assisting maintenance personnel
  • Follow direction from the Engineering Services Coordinator or HVAC Specialist

Training and Supervision

• Receive on-the-job training under the direction of the Engineering Services Coordinator (ESC) and/or HVAC Specialist
• Develop technical skills in HVAC maintenance, electrical systems, and facility operations
• Progress toward independent performance of assigned maintenance tasks

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Valid Florida driver's license
• Ability to pass a background check

Preferred Qualifications

• One (1) year of experience in building trades or as a helper (preferred but not required)
• Equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong motivation, reliability, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to diagnose issues and learn repair techniques
• Good interpersonal skills and a service-oriented attitude
• Interest in HVAC systems, electrical work, and skilled trades
• Basic awareness of workplace safety practices and hazards
• Ability to:
  • Climb ladders
  • Lift and carry items over 40 pounds
  • Work flexible hours when needed

Ergonomic Requirements

• Regularly required to stand, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
• Frequent use of hands and arms for tools and equipment
• Exposure to:
  • Mechanical HVAC systems and moving parts
  • Chemicals, fumes, and outdoor weather conditions
  • Hand tools, power tools, and electrical systems
• Occasional computer use requiring repetitive hand and wrist motion

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

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