Mechanical Systems Support Technician- Mechanical Services (2 Openings)

Mechanical Systems Support Technician

The Mechanical Systems Support Technician provides advanced technical expertise in support of the university's academic, research, and operational needs. This position bridges research support with facilities operations by designing, fabricating, and maintaining specialized laboratory equipment while also ensuring the continuous performance of campus mechanical and building systems. The role is designated as essential personnel, requiring availability for emergencies and overtime to maintain critical infrastructure. This position is classified as an Essential Services Employee. Essential Services Employees maintain business operations for UT Health Science Center and support the physical operations and safety of the campus. This role involves performing various operations and services essential to maintain critical infrastructure and ensuring continuous operations.

Responsibilities

Duties and responsibilities:

1. Collaborates with faculty, staff, and students to design, assemble, and maintain custom scientific and laboratory equipment, including computer-based control systems.
2. Fabricates, adapts, and repairs specialized mechanical and electronic parts not readily available through commercial sources.
3. Installs, inspects, troubleshoots, and repairs mechanical equipment such as refrigeration units, pumps, compressors, ductwork, sheet metal systems, and large-scale machinery weighing up to 15 tons.
4. Conducts routine maintenance and adjustments to ensure reliable operation of heating, cooling, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems serving research and instructional spaces.
5. Evaluates system performance, identifies deficiencies, and implements solutions to minimize downtime and ensure continuity of services.
6. Provides technical training and mentorship to student workers or junior staff engaged in mechanical, fabrication, or repair projects.
7. Develops, modifies, and implements preventive maintenance programs to improve system reliability and extend equipment lifespan.
8. Ensures compliance with university safety protocols, building codes, OSHA regulations, and environmental standards when performing repairs and modifications.
9. Performs detailed inspections and generates reports on system conditions, potential risks, and recommended corrective actions.
10. Performs other related duties as required.

Qualifications

Minimum requirements:

Education: High School Diploma or GED. (Transcript is required)

Experience: Six (6) years of HVAC-related experience; OR combination of education and experience to equal six (6) years. Must have a valid Driver's License.

License/Certification: Shelby County 1st class refrigeration operator's license, EPA Universal Certification, and OSHA 10 Certification or higher required OR obtain Shelby County 1st class refrigeration operator's license, EPA Universal Certification, and OSHA 10 Certification within six months of hire. Valid Driver's License is required. (Copy of license/certification required)

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Knowledge of mechanical systems: HVAC, refrigeration, pumps, pneumatics, hydraulics.
• Knowledge of fabrication methods, machining, and welding.
• Skill in troubleshooting and repairing complex mechanical systems.
• Skill in fabricating and adapting specialized components.
• Ability to work independently and in teams under changing priorities.
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies and system failures.
• Knowledge of OSHA, safety codes, and preventive maintenance practices.
• Skill in using diagnostic tools, machine shop, and welding equipment.
• Ability to safely work in labs, mechanical rooms, outdoor and confined spaces.

Work schedule: This position is required to report to designated work locations to ensure the operation of essential campus functions or departments during an emergency, or when the University has suspended or delayed operations. May occasionally work weekends and evenings. May require overnight travel.