HVAC Technician

CompanyThe Trustees of the Smith College
LocationSmith College
Category-
Seniority-
Workplace-
Posted2026-09-17
Viaworkday

Description

If you have any questions about the position or our application process, reach out to us at [email protected] .

Department

Facilities Management

Job Description

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.

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.

Compensation

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement with a progressive wage schedule. The Step 1 hourly rate is $33.41. New hires are typically placed at Step 1.

Position Type

Regular

Please attach BOTH a current resume and a cover letter in order for your application to be considered for this position . Be sure you have provided all attachments before submitting your application.

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You will NOT be able to attach additional files after you have hit the Submit button.

Review of applications will begin
June 2, 2026

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