HVAC Officer

Job Description

Job Purpose

The HVAC Officer will ensure the optimal performance, maintenance, and functionality of all heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems across the healthcare facility. This role holder will support a safe, comfortable, and compliant environment for patients, staff, and visitors by aligning HVAC operations with regulatory standards and healthcare-specific needs, especially in areas such as cardiovascular care, oncology, hematology, and surgical services.

Core Responsibilities

System Maintenance and Performance Optimization

• Conduct routine inspections and tests of all HVAC systems, including air conditioning units, chillers, boilers, air handlers, and ventilation systems, ensuring they meet operational standards.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot system malfunctions, such as temperature inconsistencies, airflow issues, or equipment failures, and implement corrective actions promptly.
• Maintain appropriate indoor environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and air pressure, across critical areas like surgical suites, oncology wards, and diagnostic labs.
• Develop and execute a preventive maintenance schedule that minimizes equipment downtime and maximizes system performance.
• Ensure availability of spare parts and maintain an inventory of essential components to facilitate timely repairs and replacements.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety Standards

• Ensure all HVAC systems operate in compliance with healthcare-specific regulations, such as ASHRAE 170 (Ventilation in Healthcare Facilities) and local building codes.
• Collaborate with infection prevention and control teams to address HVAC requirements in isolation rooms, sterile areas, and other specialized environments.
• Conduct periodic risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential safety hazards associated with HVAC operations.
• Ensure proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials, such as refrigerants, in compliance with environmental standards.
• Maintain up-to-date documentation of system inspections, maintenance activities, and certifications for internal and external audits.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

• Monitor energy consumption of HVAC systems using building management systems (BMS) and identify opportunities for optimization.
• Implement energy-efficient technologies, such as variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems, smart thermostats, and energy recovery ventilators.
• Evaluate and recommend retrofits or upgrades to aging HVAC systems to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprint.
• Conduct regular analysis of energy usage trends and develop strategies to reduce operational costs while maintaining system performance.
• Collaborate with facility management and sustainability teams to meet the healthcare facility’s environmental goals and compliance with green building certifications, such as LEED.

Emergency Response and Crisis Management

• Establish contingency plans to address unexpected HVAC failures, ensuring critical areas such as operating rooms and intensive care units remain functional.
• Act as the primary point of contact during HVAC-related emergencies, coordinating with internal teams and external vendors for immediate resolution.
• Develop and implement procedures for rapid system diagnostics and repairs during emergencies to minimize patient and operational impact.
• Ensure backup HVAC systems, such as generators and alternative cooling systems, are maintained and tested regularly.
• Document all emergency incidents, including the root cause analysis and implemented solutions, to improve future response plans.

Stakeholder Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborate with clinical teams to understand and address the unique HVAC needs of specialized services, such as negative pressure rooms or temperature-controlled drug storage.
• Coordinate with external contractors for the installation, upgrade, or major repair of HVAC systems, ensuring adherence to project timelines and quality standards.
• Provide regular training to staff on safe operation, basic troubleshooting, and maintenance practices for HVAC systems.
• Prepare and present comprehensive reports to management on system performance, issues, and strategic recommendations for improvement.
• Participate in cross-functional teams during facility renovations or expansions to provide technical expertise on HVAC system design and requirements.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• HND/Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, HVAC Engineering, or a related field.

Professional Requirements

• Proficiency in using HVAC diagnostic tools, software, and energy management systems.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in HVAC operations, maintenance, or engineering, preferably in a healthcare environment.
• Demonstrated experience in managing HVAC systems for specialized environments (e.g., operating rooms, laboratories).
• Hands-on experience in energy efficiency projects or green building initiatives.

Competency Requirements

Knowledge Requirements

• Comprehensive understanding of HVAC systems, including chillers, air handlers, and ventilation systems.
• Knowledge of healthcare-specific HVAC requirements, such as infection control and indoor air quality standards.
• Familiarity with energy efficiency principles and sustainable building practices.
• Understanding of regulatory standards, such as ASHRAE, NFPA, and local healthcare facility codes.
• Proficiency in HVAC design, installation, and troubleshooting

Skill Requirements

• Strong analytical and diagnostic skills for system troubleshooting and optimization.
• Ability to use HVAC management software and tools effectively.
• Project management skills, including planning, execution, and monitoring of HVAC projects.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills for working with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Personal Abilities

• Professional attitude towards work
• Shares the AMCE’s vision.
• Proactive and organized.
• Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers. 
• Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members
• Ability to adapt accordingly.
• High levels of honesty and integrity

Additional Information

African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics.