HVAC Specialist III

University of Central Florida • Orlando, FL

3d • $27 - $36 • Onsite

About The Position

The Utilities and Engineering Services Department within Facilities and Business Operations is seeking to hire an HVAC Specialist III. This role is responsible for providing advanced technical support in the operational maintenance of campus buildings to ensure a safe, functional, clean, and efficient learning environment. The HVAC Specialist III troubleshoots complex HVAC‑related issues, responds to service requests from customers and staff, and performs high‑level maintenance and repairs. The position requires advanced skills in HVAC and refrigeration systems, including air‑cooled and water-cooled chillers, water source heat pumps, and direct expansion (DX) systems. Additionally, the employee must possess a thorough working knowledge of Building Automation Systems (BAS) controls, boilers, electrical and plumbing systems, and applicable national and state codes that govern HVAC and building operations.

Requirements

• Completion of an approved apprenticeship program in heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning; or a high school diploma and 4 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219(6) .
• Position requires a valid Class E driver’s license.
• May be required to participate in respiratory, medical examination and training in use of respirators.

Nice To Haves

• 5+ years of hands-on experience performing advanced preventative and predictive maintenance on complex HVAC systems, including chillers, boilers, and BAS-controlled equipment.
• EPA Certification.
• Training in HVAC and refrigeration maintenance, including safe handling and disposal of refrigerants.
• Proficiency in diagnosing and repairing a wide range of HVAC components, such as air systems, compressors, pneumatic controls, and electronic controls.
• Demonstrated expertise in analyzing refrigerant charges and pressures to optimize system performance.
• Proven leadership abilities, including experience in delegating tasks, training, and motivating team members from various backgrounds.
• Experience within a university or large corporate environment.
• Familiarity with various computer programs, including Microsoft Office and the Integrated Work Management System (IWMS) or similar software.
• Basic communication skills in English to work effectively with customers and operate electronic equipment, bilingual skills preferred.
• Ability to work in outdoor conditions and within differing climates, in confined spaces, and at different elevations.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team, collaborating within individuals from varied backgrounds and experiences.

Responsibilities

• Perform independent, advanced analysis of HVAC mechanical systems and related equipment.
• Conduct preventative maintenance (PM) and predictive maintenance (PDM) on HVAC equipment to ensure continuous operation and minimize service interruptions.
• Calibrate electronic and pneumatic controls to maintain proper temperature and humidity levels.
• Install, maintain, test, and calibrate refrigeration components connected to campus HVAC systems.
• Diagnose and correct refrigeration failures; maintain, install, and repair compressors; and perform emergency HVAC and refrigeration system repairs.
• Develop proposals and recommend system enhancements for all HVAC system types.
• Troubleshoot and perform complex repairs using extensive Building Automation Systems (BAS) controls knowledge.
• Communicate with work order originators, providing regular updates on progress and anticipated completion timelines.
• Monitor work progress to ensure timely, high quality completion and exceed customer expectations.
• Ensure all HVAC repairs comply with EPA, state, and local regulations.
• Prioritize and respond to HVAC and BAS work orders, including complex inquiries, comfort complaints, and indoor air quality concerns.
• Create proactive work orders to maintain proper functionality of campus HVAC systems.
• Maintain scheduled completion dates and report any discrepancies; ensure all life safety and urgent work orders are addressed promptly.
• Serve as a subject matter expert, collaborating with entry level and intermediate HVAC Specialists to resolve complex issues and perform planned maintenance on boilers, boiler soft water systems, air and water cooled chillers, pneumatic air systems, compressors, electrical motors, fan walls, cooling towers, hot water tanks, steam converters, hot and chilled water pumps and piping, and chilled water fan coil units.
• Provide technical data, expertise, and support to the HVAC team and other university departments for ongoing projects.
• Identify operational issues and implement effective solutions.
• Perform complex corrective and planned maintenance on pneumatic air systems, compressors, controls, cooling towers, chillers, boilers, hot water and steam systems, hydronic pumps and piping, chilled water air handlers, fan coil units, VAV boxes, DX units (1–50 tons), PTAC units, exhaust fans, ventilation systems, and CRAC/CRAH units.
• Independently manage critical projects to ensure proper maintenance of facility assets.
• Maintain internal controls to ensure effective operations, safeguard assets, and ensure compliance with applicable regulations, policies, and standards.
• Assist the HVAC Manager and Engineering team with administering, maintaining, and developing UCF HVAC Specifications, including educating stakeholders, introducing standards to project teams, reviewing design documents and submittals, and supporting the integrated design process.
• Provide regular reports on the status of mechanical equipment, including project performance and compliance with established standards.

Benefits

• Benefit packages, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending, and Employee Assistance Program
• Paid time off, including annual and sick time off and paid holidays
• Retirement savings options
• Employee discounts, including tickets to many Orlando attractions
• Education assistance

What This Job Offers

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