Senior HVAC Technician

Senior HVAC TechnicianUncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!Uncommon Schools is seeking a Senior HVAC Technician (Snr HVAC Tech) to join the charter network's New Jersey Facilities team. This position provides an opportunity for an experienced HVAC technician with at least seven (7) years' relevant experience to work with a dedicated facilities group, deepen his/her technical skills, and help ensure that Uncommon provides well-maintained, comfortable, and safe educational facilities for our students and staff.Uncommon's portfolio in New Jersey comprises buildings constructed from the very early 1900s through the early 2020s, operating HVAC systems dating from 1966 to the recent past few years. As ambient comfort is essential to a productive learning and teaching environment, the impact of this individual's attentiveness will be felt and deeply appreciated across the region.Reporting to the Senior Manager, Facilities Management Team, the Senior HVAC Technician will perform all technical work necessary to inspect, maintain, repair, and modify HVAC system in our buildings.With expertise in HVAC – and to a lesser extent in construction and plumbing – in multi-family, schools, and commercial buildings, the successful candidate will be responsible for conducting minor HVAC projects and managing larger ones and ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. The Snr HVAC Tech will partner with senior Facilities team members and outside consultants on the planning, coordination, and supervision of mechanical construction and repair activities implemented by outside vendors, will ensure project timelines are met and ensure quality control standards are followed, mentor junior staff, and handle all HVAC-related communication with stakeholders.Uncommon values candidates who have the drive and ability to work hard, are highly self-motivated, are eager to take on and implement assignments and projects, and have a strong commitment to customer service and satisfaction.Safe, efficient, healthy, clean, comfortable, and reliable buildings are essential to Uncommon's mission to deliver an excellent education to our students and a comfortable working environment to our dedicated staff.As a member of the NJ Facilities Team, the Senior HVAC Technician will:maintain current knowledge of the National Standard HVAC Code and other applicable building codes and perform all facets of the HVAC trade in accordance with those codes and in a safe and effective mannerdiagnose problems with HVAC systems, evaluate solutions to remedy issues, and provide sound recommendations to supervisorsin emergency situations take immediate steps to contain the problem and restore the system to sound working conditionin emergency situations maintain clear and consistent communication with stakeholders to apprise them of steps being taken to address the issuetroubleshoot and repair all HVAC type systems currently available in the marketmaintain records of corrective and preventive work assignments received through an automated work order system (currently SchoolDude, soon ZenDesk)assist onsite Facilities Managers and General Maintenance Workers with work projects or special assignmentsrespond to campus emergency calls after hours as neededperform other duties as assignedRequired Technical Skills:Significant journeyman-level HVAC experience along with the trade knowledge to effectively understand and perform all facets of the HVAC trade in accordance with the National Standard Plumbing Code and other applicable codesStrong background in commercial heating projects large and small, including hot water boilers and gas furnacesAbility to read as-built plans for all buildings in portfolioAbility to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, submittals, cut sheets, layouts, technical manuals, schematic drawings, and other HVAC-related trade documentsAdvanced knowledge of BMS systems and system operationsAbility to procure replacement parts as needed to make all necessary repairsAbility to properly and safely use the tools of the trade and carry out all tasks expected of a Snr. HVAC TechnicianAbility to troubleshoot and repair refrigerant-driven cooling and heating equipment (heat pump systems)Ability to troubleshoot and repair water-driven heating and cooling equipmentAbility to troubleshoot and repair water or glycol pump systemsAbility to troubleshoot and service chillers and cooling towersAbility to change filters and belts and clean coils as needed to ensure proper functioning of unitsAbility to troubleshoot and implement recommended repair/replacement of:gas valveseconomizer motors and damperscompressors and contactorsdamperschilled water and hot water pumpsglycol injection unitsAbility to evacuate and top-off units with refrigerantGeneral Technical Skills:Bachelor's Degree equivalent or seven plus (7+) years of experience in the HVAC fieldEvidence of progressive responsibility and experience in HVAC field, with four plus (4+) years as head technicianAbility to handle multiple projects simultaneouslyFamiliarity with key building systems (HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing)Familiarity with OSHA and other Life Safety codes, etc.Computer skills necessary to operate BMS systemFacility with Microsoft office suiteStrong organizational skills, attention to detail, and follow-throughAbility to communicate effectively verbally and electronically with facilities staff, school staff, and vendorsAvailable to work nights and weekends when necessaryExtreme flexibility, with a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit to accommodate high level of responsibility and multiple prioritiesNew Jersey low pressure black seal boiler, HVAC or other certificate, training, or licenses a plusCarry a current EPA card enabling technician to dispense of refrigerantsValid driver's license and vehicleStrong capacity to operate independentlyPhysical Requirements:Stand or walk for up to two (2) hours at one time, up to eight (8) hours per daySit for fewer than two (2) hours during an eight (8)-hour dayLift or carry up to 35 pounds frequently and 100 pounds occasionallyLift up to 100 pounds to waist height and up to 35 pounds in a range of motions from floor to overheadFrequently use hands for simple grasping, fine manipulation, pushing or pullingOccasionally climb stairs or ladders, dig, or pull with forces up to 100 poundsFrequently bend, squat, kneel, knee stand, lift overhead, reach overhead, push, or pullWork outdoors in a variety of temperatures and environmental conditionsPossess ability to work at heights, full range of body motions and physical agility, and ability to maintain balanceMission Alignment:Demonstrate a relentless drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of schoolDemonstrate a commitment to the schools' rules, regulations, and safety proceduresImplement and enhance the school's systems and culture Create high accountability for oneself as well as for building staff and vendorsCompensation for this role is between $43/hr to $50/hr. Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant professional experience, education, certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools.At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.