Heat and Vent (HVAC) Mechanic

Posting Description


HEAT AND VENT (HVAC) MECHANIC , Haystack Observatory , installation, maintenance and repair of all types of heating, ventilation, air conditioning equipment including hot water and steam heating systems, HVAC controls, building management systems, boilers, water treatment, and refrigeration systems for MIT Haystack Observatory and on-site Lincoln Laboratory properties buildings and equipment. Will inspect and test the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure proper functioning; operate and maintain steam heating systems, HVAC controls, gas- and oil-fired heating systems and boilers, water treatment, and refrigeration systems; troubleshoot, repair, and install electronic temperature control systems; maintain, repair, and rebuild pumps, ice machines, air compressors, and other building systems equipment; Research and order materials, and complete tasks accurately with detailed written comments provided on our electronic equipment maintenance system. The ability to plan and complete jobs, order stock, and work independently with and without engineering supervision, and work directly with research staff. Perform scheduled preventative maintenance on building equipment, including lubricating components, changing filters, and adjusting and replacing belts; clean work areas and maintain tools and equipment; and provide customers with information about the progress of work. Communicate and assist supervisor with all tasks related to ensuring smooth operations of HVAC equipment. This is a remote site with limited staff and unique job demands. Must be willing and have the appropriate knowledge to be the first responder (24/7) for after-hours call-ins to safely troubleshoot and diagnose critical HVAC problems. The candidate must be a self-starter with the ability to observe and evaluate all types of equipment for potential problems independently with little instruction. Must be able to climb towers and work in outdoor environment during adverse conditions. Ascending/descending stairs; traversing the complex; moving about the Jobsite and machinery to access equipment; remaining stationary for extended periods; and working from ladders, scaffolds, and other above-ground locations such as roofs and antenna towers. Personal protective equipment must be worn as required by the specific assignment. The environment contains dust, odors, and fumes, high levels of noise and temperature extremes. Work will be performed near steam and moving machinery, in tight areas and confined spaces such as utility holes and crawl spaces, and with and around chemicals and solvents. Some work is performed in research labs and outdoors in inclement weather.

Job Requirements


REQUIRED : A minimum five years applicable experience and a MA State refrigeration technicians license and EPA approved type UNIVERSAL refrigerant certificate of completion. Ability to communicate effectively with supervisor, colleagues, and customers and to read and understand written directions, safety signage, and other documents; ability to use e-mail, the software that is utilized for work order tracking, and other types of job-specific technology once management has provided the necessary training; and ability to work independently or as a member of a team. The position involves ascending multiple levels of stairs; frequent sitting, standing, and walking, often for long periods of time; and lifting and/or moving weights of up to 50 pounds. Must be able to climb towers and work in outdoor environment during adverse conditions.

4/27/2026