HVAC Journeyman - Tech III

HVAC Technician III Journeyman

The HVAC Technician III Journeyman performs advanced, journey-level work in the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of complex heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) systems serving university academic, residential, and administrative facilities. This position works with a high degree of independence, applies in-depth trade knowledge and licensure, and serves as a technical resource for lower-level technicians. The role supports campus reliability, safety, energy efficiency, and regulatory compliance while providing general facilities maintenance support as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in the HVAC field, including commercial or institutional systems.

Job Duties:

• Advanced HVAC & Mechanical Systems
  • Independently inspect, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair complex commercial and institutional HVAC/R systems, including boilers, chillers, air handling units, rooftop units, exhaust systems, pumps, compressors, and associated controls.
  • Perform advanced diagnostics of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and control system issues and determine appropriate corrective actions.
  • Test system efficiency using instruments and make adjustments to thermostats, valves, blowers, and control components.
  • Perform system evacuations, leak detection, refrigerant recovery, charging, and retesting in accordance with EPA regulations.
  • Support system start-up, commissioning, and verification of proper operation prior to returning systems to service.
  • Interpret blueprints, schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals to plan and execute work.
• Building Systems, Leadership, and Technical Guidance
  • Serve as a technical resource and mentor to HVAC Technician I and II staff, providing guidance on proper methods and safety practices.
  • Coordinate work with other Facilities trades, supervisors, and contractors to resolve complex system issues.
  • Monitor HVAC system performance and report deficiencies, recommended repairs, or capital needs.
  • Utilize building automation or control systems to evaluate system operation and respond to alarms, escalating issues as appropriate.
• General Maintenance & Campus Support
  • Perform skilled general maintenance tasks as needed, including mechanical repairs, minor plumbing work, basic electrical troubleshooting, and equipment installation.
  • Respond to emergency service calls, after-hours issues, and on-call assignments as scheduled.
  • Assist with campus operations support, including seasonal preparation, event support, and coordination of maintenance activities.
• Safety, Compliance, and Documentation
  • Apply and enforce safety procedures, including lockout/tagout, confined space awareness, PPE usage, and chemical safety
  • Maintain accurate documentation of work performed, inspections, and preventive maintenance activities using the campus maintenance system.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and institutional standards.
• Other Duties as Assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Advanced knowledge of HVAC/R systems, refrigeration cycles, and mechanical and electrical components.
• Skill in diagnosing and repairing complex system failures with minimal supervision.
• Ability to read and interpret detailed technical drawings, schematics, and specifications.
• Ability to plan work, prioritize tasks, and provide technical guidance to others.
• Strong communication skills and ability to interact professionally with campus stakeholders.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

• Frequent exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, chemicals, and electrical hazards.
• Participation in 24-hour emergency on-call rotation, including weekends and holidays.
• Ability to bend, twist, and reach to load or unload materials and equipment.
• Ability to read blue prints or drawings to measure.
• Ability to communicate clearly and distinctly in person and by two-way radio.
• Ability to understand conversation in a noisy environment and/or communicate at a moderate distance.
• Ability to determine location of sounds and discriminate among various power tools and equipment sounds.