HVAC Operating Engineer

Uncommon 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!

Job Description

Uncommon Schools is seeking a HVAC Operating Engineer to join the charter network’s New Jersey Facilities team. This position provides an opportunity for an experienced HVAC Operating Engineer 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 HVAC Operating Engineer 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 HVAC Operating Engineer 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 HVAC Operating Engineer 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 manner
• diagnose problems with HVAC systems, evaluate solutions to remedy issues, and provide sound recommendations to supervisors
• in emergency situations take immediate steps to contain the problem and restore the system to sound working condition
• in emergency situations maintain clear and consistent communication with stakeholders to apprise them of steps being taken to address the issue
• troubleshoot and repair all HVAC type systems currently available in the market
• maintain 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 assignments
• respond to campus emergency calls after hours as needed
• perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Required 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 codes
• Strong background in commercial heating projects large and small, including hot water boilers and gas furnaces
• Ability to read as-built plans for all buildings in portfolio
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, submittals, cut sheets, layouts, technical manuals, schematic drawings, and other HVAC-related trade documents
• Advanced knowledge of BMS systems and system operations
• Ability to procure replacement parts as needed to make all necessary repairs 
• Ability to properly and safely use the tools of the trade and carry out all tasks expected of a Snr. HVAC Technician
• Ability to troubleshoot and repair refrigerant-driven cooling and heating equipment (heat pump systems)
• Ability to troubleshoot and repair water-driven heating and cooling equipment
• Ability to troubleshoot and repair water or glycol pump systems
• Ability to troubleshoot and service chillers and cooling towers
• Ability to change filters and belts and clean coils as needed to ensure proper functioning of units
• Ability to troubleshoot and implement recommended repair/replacement of
  • gas valves 
  • economizer motors and dampers
  • compressors and contactors 
  • dampers 
  • chilled water and hot water pumps
  • glycol injection units
• Ability to evacuate and top-off units with refrigerant 

General Technical Skills

• Bachelor’s Degree equivalent or seven plus (7+) years of experience in the HVAC field 
• Evidence of progressive responsibility and experience in HVAC field, with four plus (4+) years as head technician 
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Familiarity with key building systems (HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing) 
• Familiarity with OSHA and other Life Safety codes, etc. 
• Computer skills necessary to operate BMS system
• Facility with Microsoft office suite
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and follow-through 
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and electronically with facilities staff, school staff, and vendors
• Available to work nights and weekends when necessary 
• Extreme flexibility, with a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit to accommodate high level of responsibility and multiple priorities
• New Jersey low pressure black seal boiler, HVAC or other certificate, training, or licenses a plus 
• Carry a current EPA card enabling technician to dispense of refrigerants
• Valid driver’s license and vehicle
• Strong capacity to operate independently 

Physical Requirements

• The physical requirements outlined below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.
• Stand or walk for up to two (2) hours at one time, up to eight (8) hours per day
• Sit for fewer than two (2) hours during an eight (8)-hour day 
• Lift or carry up to 35 pounds frequently and 100 pounds occasionally
• Lift up to 100 pounds to waist height and up to 35 pounds in a range of motions from floor to overhead
• Frequently use hands for simple grasping, fine manipulation, pushing or pulling 
• Occasionally climb stairs or ladders, dig, or pull with forces up to 100 pounds 
• Frequently bend, squat, kneel, knee stand, lift overhead, reach overhead, push, or pull 
• Work outdoors in a variety of temperatures and environmental conditions 
• Possess ability to work at heights, full range of body motions and physical agility, and ability to maintain balance

Mission Alignment

• Demonstrate a relentless drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of school 
• Demonstrate a commitment to the schools’ rules, regulations, and safety procedures
• Implement and enhance the school’s systems and culture Create high accountability for oneself as well as for building staff and vendors

#ZR

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon.  We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Compensation

Compensation 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.

Benefits

• Regional staff will have the same holidays and sustainability days as school-based staff in their region, and flexible summer PTO
• Extensive, best-in-class training and development
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)
• Financial Planning
  • New Jersey Pension program
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits

*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE . 

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.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email View email address on us.fitly.work.