HVAC/Chiller Technician

The Mechanical Systems Operator is responsible for the efficient operation, monitoring, and maintenance of mechanical systems to support critical facility operations. This role focuses on ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and compliance with environmental and safety standards. Primary duties include:

• System Monitoring & Operation:

  • Operate and monitor major mechanical systems, including HVAC systems, HVAC controls, chilled water distribution systems, chillers, air handlers, pumps, and motors.

  • Use Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems or similar platforms to monitor mechanical systems' performance and identify anomalies.

  • Optimize system performance through real-time adjustments and ensure consistent temperature, humidity, and air circulation as required.

• Preventative Maintenance & Inspections:

  • Perform routine inspections and preventative maintenance on mechanical systems and components to ensure peak performance and to identify potential failures.

  • Test, adjust, and calibrate system controls, sensors, and actuators to ensure proper functionality and accuracy.

• Troubleshooting & Emergency Response:

  • Diagnose and troubleshoot issues in mechanical systems, including pumps, chillers, air handlers, and other HVAC-related equipment.

  • Respond quickly to system alarms, performance failures, and emergencies to contain and resolve issues affecting system operation.

  • Work closely with maintenance teams to execute repairs and restore system functionality.

• Safety & Regulatory Compliance:

  • Ensure compliance with all safety protocols and standards, as well as building codes and regulations related to HVAC systems.

  • Conduct and participate in environmental and safety audits to ensure mechanical infrastructure adheres to safety standards.

• Documentation & Reporting:

  • Maintain accurate records and logs of system operations, inspections, repairs, and performance metrics using established tracking systems.

  • Prepare reports on system efficiency, incidents, and preventative maintenance schedules for leadership review.

• Coordination & Communication:

  • Collaborate with contractors, engineers, and maintenance teams to address system issues and implement improvements.

  • Effectively communicate system status, risks, and updates to supervisors and relevant stakeholders.

Work Environment, Physical Demands, and Mental Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to:

• Moving mechanical parts, pressurized systems, and rotating equipment.

• Various environmental conditions, including wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and outside weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold.

• Risk of vibrating or noisy equipment and exposure to high-pressure systems.

The position requires:

• Physical mobility to climb ladders, scaffolding, or platforms; bend, stoop, stand, and work in cramped or confined areas.

• Lifting and carrying tools or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds on occasion.

• Frequent walking, use of hands to handle or feel, reaching with hands and arms, talking or hearing, and occasionally tasting or smelling (as part of safety or troubleshooting processes).

Vision abilities required for this role include:

• Close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus for system inspections or monitoring.

Noise levels in the work environment can range from moderate to loud, requiring appropriate hearing protection during operations.

Minimum Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• (U) A minimum of ten (10) years performing work on mechanical HVAC systems, HVAC Controls, or chilled water distribution systems, with at least two (2) years of experience monitoring and controlling major facility mechanical systems, including chillers, air handlers, pumps, motors, and SCADA systems.

• Extensive knowledge of HVAC equipment, chilled water systems, and associated controls.

• Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills for complex mechanical systems.

• Familiarity with SCADA systems or similar system-monitoring platforms.

• Skilled in reading and interpreting system blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals.

• Strong understanding of safe operating procedures and mechanical safety standards.

Clearance Required:

• TS/SCI

Minimum Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Minimum Years of Experience:

• Ten (10) years of experience working on mechanical HVAC systems, HVAC controls, or chilled water distribution systems, including at least two (2) years of experience monitoring and controlling major systems (e.g., chillers, air handlers, pumps, motors, and SCADA).

Required Certifications:

• HVAC-related certifications such as EPA Universal (Type I, II, and III) or an equivalent certification.

• Additional certifications in mechanical systems, controls, or HVAC operation preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate degree or Technical Certification in Mechanical Systems, HVAC Engineering, or a related field.

• Completion of a certified apprenticeship or formal training program covering mechanical systems operation.

• Experience with mission-critical mechanical systems (e.g., government, military, or data center environments).

• Working knowledge of Building Automation Systems (BAS) and advanced HVAC controls.

• Additional certifications, such as LEED Accredited Professional (AP), or training in energy-efficient HVAC practices.

This position falls under the Service Contract Act (SCA). In accordance with the Health and Welfare (H&W) provisions of the SCA, and in addition to your base hourly rate, you may receive a H&W payment for each hour paid up to 40 hours weekly to ensure compliance with the minimums set forth by the act. The amount you are entitled to receive will vary depending upon the fringe benefits you select now and, in the future, but will not exceed $4.93/hour. Any H&W payments that are due to you will either be deposited into a 401(k) account on your behalf or paid out to you as cash, depending on your preference.

Compensation Details:

$50,000 - $100,000

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.