HVAC Technician

Saint Mary's College of California•Moraga, CA

17d

About The Position

The HVAC Technician performs advanced skilled technical work involving installation, maintenance, repair, inspection, and troubleshooting of complex heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and related mechanical systems across Saint Mary’s College’s campus. The role supports safe, efficient, and reliable campus HVAC infrastructure and food-service and kitchen equipment, ensuring systems comply with applicable codes, safety regulations, and operational requirements. The technician independently diagnoses complex system failures, determines corrective actions, recommends infrastructure improvements, performs preventive maintenance, responds to emergency requests, evaluates system performance, and provides technical guidance to Facilities Services personnel. The role may also coordinate specialized HVAC work with external contractors and vendors. Facilities Services operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Swing, weekend, and emergency shifts are required. Facilities Services employees are considered critical employees and may be required to assist the College during campus emergencies.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Completion of a recognized HVAC apprenticeship program, technical training in HVAC/refrigeration systems, or an equivalent combination of advanced technical training and progressively responsible HVAC experience.
At least five years of progressively responsible HVAC/mechanical-trades experience, including installation, maintenance, repair, and independent troubleshooting of complex HVAC, refrigeration, and related mechanical systems.
Experience performing refrigerant recovery, evacuation, charging, and related service procedures in accordance with applicable regulatory and safety requirements.
Current EPA Section 608 Universal Technician Certification for individuals performing regulated refrigerant-handling activities.
Advanced knowledge of HVAC, refrigeration, ventilation, and related mechanical systems, including pumps, motors, air handlers, fan coils, controls, and associated equipment.
Ability to independently diagnose and resolve complex HVAC and mechanical failures using advanced technical judgment and problem-solving.
Ability to evaluate HVAC infrastructure and recommend repairs, replacements, preventive maintenance strategies, and system improvements.
Ability to interpret and apply applicable HVAC, mechanical, refrigeration, and safety codes and technical specifications.
Ability to read and interpret mechanical blueprints, equipment schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical specifications.
Ability to safely operate specialized HVAC testing equipment, electrical diagnostic instruments, and mechanical trade tools.
Ability to monitor, troubleshoot, and adjust HVAC operations using computerized building automation and control systems.
Ability to evaluate indoor air quality, operate monitoring equipment, and interpret resulting data.
Ability to coordinate assigned maintenance and repair projects and provide technical guidance to Facilities Services personnel and external contractors.
Ability to read, write, and speak English.
Ability to maintain accurate maintenance records, use electronic work-order systems, and communicate effectively with staff, contractors, and campus stakeholders.
Knowledge of applicable refrigerant handling, recovery, and disposal procedures and related safety requirements.
Availability for required swing, weekend, and emergency shifts, and to assist the College during campus emergencies.

Nice To Haves

Additional HVAC or mechanical systems certifications, as applicable to assigned duties.

Responsibilities

Diagnose complex heating, air-conditioning, refrigeration, and mechanical system failures and determine appropriate repairs, corrective actions, or replacement needs.
Fabricate equipment parts for specialized requirements or to replace unavailable components.
Inspect HVAC and kitchen systems and components, identify mechanical issues, and perform or recommend preventive maintenance.
Install heating and air-conditioning equipment and systems for upgrades, efficiency improvements, and campus climate control.
Evaluate system performance, troubleshoot potential failures, and maintain reliable HVAC operations.
Repair HVAC systems and components, including pumps, motors, air handlers, fan coils, piping, and related control systems.
Request equipment and supplies and maintain inventory of materials needed for installations, repairs, and preventive maintenance.
Respond during or after hours to emergency service requests and restore essential services while addressing immediate safety concerns.
Monitor and adjust HVAC operations through computerized building automation and control systems, including remote access when authorized.
Transport tools, equipment, and supplies for maintenance and repair assignments.
Evaluate HVAC infrastructure and recommend repairs, equipment replacements, and improvements to efficiency, reliability, and energy performance.
Use specialized diagnostic tools, testing equipment, and computerized controls to assess performance and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical control issues.
Provide technical guidance to Facilities Services personnel on HVAC operations, troubleshooting, and specialized repairs.
Assist with planning and coordinating HVAC maintenance, equipment replacement, and improvement projects, including work with contractors and vendors.
Assist with general campus facility maintenance, including plumbing, fire safety, HVAC, kitchen equipment, and general repairs.
Interpret and apply mechanical, HVAC, refrigeration, and safety codes and regulations; follow College, departmental, and OSHA safety procedures.
Participate in required monthly safety meetings and relevant equipment-operation training.
Identify system safety hazards, equipment failures, and operational risks, and recommend corrective measures.
Apply refrigerant handling, recovery, and disposal requirements when servicing HVAC and refrigeration equipment.
Evaluate preventive maintenance practices and recommend improvements to reduce equipment failures, service interruptions, and safety concerns.
Retrieve work through the electronic database and close completed work orders in the system.
Maintain stock-material inventory and coordinate ordering with the team lead and shop manager.
Maintain the work vehicle in functional condition.
Document complex repairs, equipment evaluations, preventive maintenance, and corrective actions.
Assist in coordinating project materials, equipment, scheduling, and operational requirements.
Protect College property and campus users; promptly identify, report, or resolve safety and code-compliance issues; help keep campus facilities clean and orderly; safeguard property from weather, theft, and vandalism; and support minimal disruption to campus services.
Perform other duties as assigned.