HVAC Technician - Smith College - NORTHAMPTON

Job Summary

Under the direction of the facilities manager, mechanical trades or designee, safely operate, repair and maintain the HVAC/R systems for the college.

*This position works Tuesday-Saturday, 7am-3pm*

Job Responsibilities

• The operator is responsible for the operations, servicing and maintenance of heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment and control systems.
• Servicing and maintenance including, but is not limited to, the installation, set-up, calibration, troubleshooting, upgrading, monitoring and repairing a wide variety of HVAC/R equipment and control systems in all campus facilities.
• This includes the daily monitoring and operation of a microprocessor-based energy management system and a 4,000-ton chiller plant, which includes both mechanical and absorption chillers.
• Program changes in the energy management system as required.
• Inspect, test, lubricate, clean, adjust and replace parts (such as fan belts, bearings, couplings, etc.) and repair and adjust varied types of mechanical-electrical equipment (such as fans, motors, pumps, compressors, filters, engines, generators, refrigeration equipment and controls, etc.) on a regular schedule or as assigned.
• Service, operate and monitor building ventilation, heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems to control temperature and humidity within the buildings.
• Service, operate and monitor swimming pool pumps, water treatment and filters.
• Record necessary operating information, maintain preventive maintenance records and service records on all pieces of equipment.
• Maintain metering equipment, log associated data and analyze systems to maintain accurate records.
• Ensure specified temperature, humidity levels and control points are being maintained efficiently and at the desired levels. Report more serious issues to manager.
• Maintain areas surrounding mechanical equipment, keeping them clean and free from dirt, grease and oil, and in safe operating condition.
• Replace, install or maintain all safety devices on equipment.
• Observe OSHA safety regulations and practices at all times.
• Be responsible for reading and recording the data of various types of energy metering devices such as electric, gas, steam and condensate meters.
• Participate in training sessions related to technical and personal performance and apply training to improve system operation.
• Assist in analyzing existing systems and their schematics to suggest operating improvements.
• Drive college vehicles as assigned.
• Responsible for cleaning vehicles, inspecting for damage and performing visual check prior to using. Reporting any issues discovered to the supervisor immediately.
• Report all necessary maintenance and repair items via the work order system.
• Clean and maintain a neat and orderly work area.
• Remove ice and snow and perform sanding as assigned.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must have a valid driver’s license and furnish own transportation as required to carry out college work. A mileage allowance is provided, per the union contract. Must complete and comply with all college driving credentialing requirements. Upon award of this position, a Division of Motor Vehicles background check will be completed.
• A Massachusetts State Refrigeration Technicians license, desired
• Certified Pool Operators license, preferred or ability to obtain within 1 year of hire.
• OSHA 10 or 30-hour certification may be required
• Must be proficient in the operation of automated control systems.
• Must be able to safely lift and carry up to fifty pounds regularly and up to ninety pounds occasionally.
• Must be able to bend, stoop, kneel, walk, stand, climb stairs and ladders and work in very warm/cold and cramped spaces for extended periods of time.
• Must demonstrate proficiency in accessing the internet, using the Smith College email, finance, payroll and calendar systems as well as the work order system.
• Must be able to pass a background check.

Compensation: This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement with a progressive wage schedule. The Step 1 hourly rate is $31.15. New hires are typically placed at Step 1.

Minimum Education/Experience:

• High school/vocational diploma, GED equivalent or combination of education and experience.
• An associates degree in engineering or related field is preferred.
• Equivalent work experience will be considered as a substitute for such a
• degree.
• Additional technical training in the operation and maintenance of heating, ventilating and/or air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) systems, DDC controls and related fields is required.
• Must have a minimum of five years of field experience in the maintenance, servicing, installation, set-up, calibration, troubleshooting and repair of all HVAC/R equipment and controls and thoroughly understand the interaction of such equipment with all related HVAC systems.
• Familiar with ALC and Alerton systems.
• Working knowledge of absorption and centrifugal and screw chillers, preferred.
• Must be familiar with variable refrigerant flow HVAC technology.
• A Massachusetts State Refrigeration Technicians license, desired.
• Ability to obtain pool license, if requested.

Skills:

• Must be able to demonstrate a sound knowledge of all parts, terms, schematic drawings, tools and equipment, design, servicing, maintenance and operation of HVAC/R and DDC control systems.
• Must possess ability to safely operate, maintain and repair all college related plant systems and equipment, including, but not limited to chillers, air handling units, distribution systems, A/C units, controls, etc.
• Must not be allergic to chemicals and materials normally used in the HVAC/R or pool maintenance operation.
• Must be capable of wearing respiratory masks and other PPE as required for the job.
• Ability to perform routine welding and machinist work is desirable.
• Must demonstrate strong communication skills including oral and written and electronic.
• Commitment to maintain high standards of maintenance.
• Must have knowledge of OSHA regulations for the safety of the college employees, its users and property.
• Must be able to work independently and in a team environment.
• Must demonstrate understanding of chemicals used, including but not limited to reading and understanding Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Must possess knowledge of all safety regulations applicable to work performed.
• Perform duties and responsibilities with a view toward department and college, including, but not limited to energy conservation.
• Must have ability to operate and maintain all hand and power tools as required by position.
• Must possess ability to read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, sketches and other specifications as well as plan work procedures.
• Must have excellent customer service skills and have noted ability to work well with staff, students and all members of the college community.
• Must possess strong commitment to maintain high standards of maintenance.
• Must have a clear understanding of the union contract and all college policies.
• Ability to use good judgment to take appropriate independent action to carry out the primary functions of the job.
• Must be proficient in working with lift systems, ladders, scaffolding and safety harnesses, etc.