HVAC Technician

Description

The HVAC Technician reports to the Building Operations Manager and is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and installing the museum’s and ancillary properties’ heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, prioritizing the preservation of artifacts by carefully monitoring and controlling temperature and humidity levels while adhering to strict environmental standards and museum protocols; this often includes performing preventative maintenance, responding to emergencies, and collaborating with curators to ensure optimal climate control for exhibits.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities -

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Climate Control Management:

• Monitor and adjust temperature and humidity levels in exhibition spaces to maintain precise environmental conditions for artifact preservation.
• Regularly check and calibrate HVAC systems to ensure accurate climate control.
• Implement special climate control measures for sensitive exhibits, such as climate-controlled cases.

Preventative Maintenance:

• Perform routine inspections and maintenance on all HVAC equipment, including filters, coils, and condensate drains.
• Conduct preventative maintenance schedules to identify potential issues before they impact exhibits.
• Lubricate moving parts and clean system components to optimize performance.

Repair and Troubleshooting:

• Diagnose and repair malfunctions in HVAC systems, including electrical and mechanical components.
• Troubleshoot system issues with minimal disruption to museum operations
• Order and replace necessary parts as required.

Emergency Response:

• Provide on-call support for urgent HVAC issues outside of regular working hours.
• Respond promptly to emergencies like power outages, temperature fluctuations, or system failures.

Collaboration with Museum Staff:

• Work closely with curators and exhibit designers to understand specific climate requirements for different collections.
• Coordinate HVAC maintenance schedules to minimize disruptions during exhibit installations or changes.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, repairs, and system performance.
• Generate reports on HVAC system status and identify potential concerns.
• Stay updated on industry standards and emerging technologies related to museum HVAC systems.
• Report any irregular activity in the facility to the Building Ops Manager.

General Maintenance:

• May support the Building Operations Manager and Director of Facilities with the maintenance schedule of building, grounds, and facility repairs and replacements as needed.
• Assist contractors performing maintenance work in the facility.
• Active member of the museum’s hurricane response team.

Schedule Requirements -

• Five day/40-hour per week schedule which may include nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be available on-call.

Physical Requirements -

• Ability to lift heavy equipment and tools up to 50 pounds
• Proficiency in climbing ladders and working at heights, as well as maintaining balance on uneven surfaces.
• Ability to work in various conditions and environments, including hot and cold temperatures, outdoor settings, and confined spaces, such as crawl spaces and attics.

Note: Nothing in this job description restricts management’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Qualifications

Qualifications - 

• Certified HVAC technician with three (3) years’ experience in commercial building systems, including knowledge of air handling units, chillers, and ventilation systems. EPA Refrigerant Certification is preferred.
• Proven experience in installation, maintenance, and repair of both commercial and residential HVAC systems, including knowledge and skill in health and safety precautions.
• Knowledge of Trane Management System or Johnson Controls Metasys Management System is a plus.
• Knowledge of electrical installations of 24 volt to 460-volt single phase and three phases.
• Knowledge of water towers, boilers, refrigerant recovery systems, pneumatic and electrical controls.
• Understanding of the environmental factors affecting artifact preservation and the ability to maintain precise climate control. Knowledge of Environmental Protection Agency regulations and rules.
• Meticulous approach to work with a strong focus on accuracy and quality.
• Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot complex HVAC issues.
• Working knowledge of basic hand, power and technical tools utilized in plumbing and carpentry.
• Demonstrated skill in utilizing the technical equipment for refrigerant delivery or recovery.
• Skill in analyzing technical data to determine appropriate repairs.
• Proficiency in computer software and maintenance systems.
• Effective communication with museum staff, curators, and other technicians to coordinate maintenance activities and address concerns.
• Experience in plumbing, minor carpentry and electrical is a plus