Travel Lead Mechanic - Commercial HVAC

Cogent Talent Solutions•Hickory, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Commercial HVAC Lead Mechanic performs installation, service, troubleshooting, and maintenance of HVAC systems and components on commercial construction sites. The role leads field crews, coordinates jobsite activities, ensures quality workmanship, and maintains compliance with safety and building-code requirements. The position involves receiving, uncrating, positioning, installing, connecting, and starting up commercial HVAC equipment. It also includes installing metal and flexible ductwork in overhead applications and securing it with appropriate hangers and connectors. Equipment may be positioned using forklifts, cranes, scissor lifts, boom lifts, or manual methods. The Lead Mechanic supervises mechanics, apprentices, helpers, and subcontractors; manages schedules, materials, and workflow; and services commercial HVAC systems such as chillers, boilers, rooftop units, air handling units, and VAV boxes. The role also involves working with building automation and energy management systems, interpreting construction documents, communicating with customers and general contractors, training less-experienced team members, and maintaining a clean, safe, professional jobsite. Compensation is $32–$38 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.

Requirements

5–10+ years of commercial HVAC field experience.
Strong knowledge of commercial HVAC systems and equipment.
Experience with 3-phase electrical systems and hydronic piping systems.
Knowledge of heavy-tonnage refrigeration systems.
Experience with complex air balancing.
Ability to troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, refrigeration, and controls-related issues.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, piping layouts, electrical diagrams, and construction documents.
Valid driver's license with a good driving record.
EPA Section 608 Universal Certification.
Ability to work on rooftops and in commercial construction environments, including varying weather and jobsite conditions.
Ability to safely operate or work from scissor lifts and boom lifts.
Ability to lift and carry commercial HVAC components weighing up to 75+ pounds.
Ability to follow applicable safety procedures and requirements.
Ability to supervise crews, helpers, and subcontractors, work independently, and communicate regularly with general contractors and customers.
Strong attention to detail and a teachable, service-oriented mindset.

Nice To Haves

At least 2 years in a foreman, lead, or supervisory role.
Experience with BAS and EMS systems.
Commercial driver's license endorsement.

Responsibilities

Lead field crews of mechanics, apprentices, helpers, and subcontractors on commercial job sites, managing schedules, materials, and workflow.
Receive, uncrate, position, install, connect, and start up commercial HVAC equipment.
Install metal and flexible HVAC ductwork in overhead applications, including hangers, connectors, and fasteners.
Troubleshoot, repair, service, and maintain chillers, boilers, rooftop units, air handling units, VAV boxes, and other commercial HVAC equipment.
Program, diagnose, troubleshoot, and interface with Building Automation Systems (BAS) and Energy Management Systems (EMS).
Read and interpret mechanical schematics, electrical diagrams, architectural blueprints, piping layouts, and other construction documents.
Enforce jobsite safety requirements and verify that work meets applicable building codes, project specifications, and quality standards.
Communicate professionally with general contractors, customers, project managers, and other trades.
Provide direction, support, and training to less-experienced team members.
Complete assigned work independently while meeting productivity and quality standards.
Maintain clean, organized, safe, and professional work areas.
Take responsibility for personal safety and the safety of other employees.