HVAC Refrigeration Mechanic II - Power Plant

Westfield State University • Westfield, MA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The HVAC Refrigeration Mechanic II - Power Plant operates power plant equipment to provide a constant source of steam energy to university users, and cleans, maintains, and repairs auxiliary equipment. From September 1 through May 15, the role operates high-pressure boilers and related equipment, monitors gauges and operating systems, adjusts controls and valves, maintains equipment, and records operating data. From May 15 through September 1, the role performs routine HVAC maintenance and installs, maintains, and repairs heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment.

The position is full-time, permanent, and fully in person at Westfield State University. It receives general supervision from the AVP Facilities & Capital Planning, Executive Director of Facilities and Operations, and Chief Power Plant Engineer. Higher-grade HVAC mechanics may provide functional supervision and training. The position has no supervisory authority, though it trains and supervises co-op students, other trades personnel assigned to jobs, and seasonal assistants.

Work may involve adverse weather, noise, fumes, gases, confined spaces, physical exertion, lifting or moving objects up to 50 pounds, and working from ladders, scaffolds, or other elevated equipment. The employee may operate motor vehicles, work varied shifts, nights, weekends, or holidays, and be assigned standby/on-call work.

Requirements

• At least two years of full-time or equivalent part-time technical experience operating high-pressure steam boilers and installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, refrigeration, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, or an equivalent combination of experience and qualifying education.
• A current and valid Second-Class Steam Fireman's license issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety.
• A current and valid driver's license.
• Knowledge of low- and/or high-pressure boilers, boiler operation, firing practices, auxiliary equipment, and power plant safety procedures.
• Knowledge of HVAC and refrigeration tools, equipment, systems, safety practices, air quality standards, terminology, codes, symbols, and standard abbreviations.
• Knowledge of electrical, electronic, and pneumatic HVAC control systems and electrical test equipment such as voltmeters and amprobes.
• Ability to monitor, program, and calibrate computerized energy conservation programs.
• Ability to read and interpret specifications, operating manuals, and blueprints.
• Ability to communicate effectively and make written recommendations to a supervisor.
• Manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to supervise, train, and plan the work of others.
• Ability to understand and apply relevant laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• A recognized post-high-school certificate or diploma documenting completion of a two-year refrigeration and heating program may substitute for one year of required experience; education toward such a credential is prorated.

Nice To Haves

• A current and valid Massachusetts Refrigeration Technician's License or Universal EPA License.

Responsibilities

• Operate high-pressure boilers and related power plant equipment to generate steam for heat and other university equipment.
• Read meters and gauges, monitor operating systems, adjust valves and controls, and detect faulty equipment.
• Clean, maintain, lubricate, and repair power plant and auxiliary equipment, including boilers, chillers, and air compressors.
• Record boiler operating hours, pressure, temperature, fuel consumption, and other operational data.
• Assume responsibility for plant operations during the assigned shift and use judgment in emergency situations.
• Perform routine HVAC maintenance, including changing air filters, greasing bearings, and cleaning mechanical rooms.
• Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment, controls, and related fixtures.
• Test HVAC and refrigeration equipment and connections using gauges and electrical testing equipment; make adjustments and replace defective components as needed.
• Calculate heat loads for new installations and analyze and treat open and closed water systems, including cooling towers.
• Assemble and install ducts, chassis parts, system components, and cabinets using appropriate tools and techniques.
• Provide technical assistance and recommend system improvements; perform programming, monitoring, and calibration of energy management systems.
• Plan and organize daily work; train and supervise co-op students, assigned trades personnel, and seasonal assistants.
• Perform preventive maintenance, manual system adjustments, and equipment installations.
• Use computerized preventive maintenance and building management systems and maintain computerized inventory.
• Order supplies and equipment needed for HVAC duties.
• Keep work areas clean and orderly and follow applicable safety rules and regulations.

Benefits

• Eligible employees may choose among HMO, POS, and PPO-type health insurance plans.
• Eligible employees receive a retirement pension through the MA State Employee Retirement System after a 10-year vesting period, or may select the Optional Retirement Plan with a maximum 5% employer matching contribution.
• Eligible employees, spouses, and dependent children receive reduced tuition at Massachusetts state colleges, community colleges, and universities.
• Employees receive 12 paid holidays and vacation, personal, and sick leave benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED