HVAC MECHANIC III

Arlington Public Schools•Arlington, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The HVAC Mechanic III serves as an advanced-level technician whose work is performed to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of complex heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC-R) systems across multiple APS facilities, with the purpose of diagnosing problems, determining corrective actions, and implementing solutions that directly affect building comfort, system performance, and overall operational continuity. The position installs, operates, adjusts, maintains, troubleshoots, repairs, replaces, and modifies a full range of commercial-industrial and residential HVAC-R equipment—including chillers, boilers, cooling towers, air handlers with variable frequency drives, refrigeration systems, and digital/pneumatic controls—while applying advanced trade knowledge, specialized diagnostic software, and Energy Management System (EMS/BAS) programming to achieve accurate and effective system outcomes. The work has significant impact on students, staff, and facility operations by ensuring indoor environmental quality, system safety, and energy efficiency, and it supports long-term asset preservation and sustainability goals. The employees’ recommendations concerning preventive and predictive maintenance, system optimization, and technological improvements influence operational practices and resource utilization, and the mechanic may also provide technical guidance and on-the-job training to lower-level personnel.

Requirements

Advanced knowledge of HVAC-R theory, diagnostics, installation, troubleshooting, repair, and modification for commercial, industrial, and residential systems, including chillers, boilers, refrigeration equipment, hydronic systems, ventilation systems, and VFDs.
Strong knowledge of BAS/EMS platforms, including DDC controls, BAS networking (e.g., BACnet), and energy-management strategies.
Knowledge of safety regulations and building codes, including EPA refrigerant rules, OSHA/VOSHA standards, and APS policies and procedures.
Understanding of trade standards, manufacturer specifications, and evolving HVAC technologies and materials.
Skilled in analyzing system performance, interpreting technical data, and resolving complex HVAC problems efficiently.
Proficient in reading and interpreting schematics, blueprints, diagrams, and technical manuals.
Skilled in the use of HVAC trade tools, diagnostic instruments, and relevant software, including CMMS platforms and BAS diagnostic tools.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to provide clear information to staff, contractors, and customers.
Ability to work independently across multiple sites, setting priorities and making informed decisions within established guidelines.
Ability to adapt guidelines and apply judgment when addressing non-routine or complex system issues.
Ability to learn new technologies and equipment quickly as systems evolve.
Ability to provide on-the-job training and technical guidance to lower-level HVAC personnel.
Ability to work safely, identify hazards, follow safety procedures, and handle refrigerants and hazardous materials properly.
Commitment to sustainable practices and energy-efficient HVAC operations.
Education: High school diploma or GED required.
Experience: A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in commercial, industrial, and residential HVAC-R systems is required. A minimum of two (2) years as a journey-level HVAC mechanic, or (1) year at a senior-level (above journey-level) with commercial/industrial refrigeration experience required.
CFC-Universal certification or EPA Section 608 Universal Certification is required.
A State driver's license is required.

Nice To Haves

A Master License in HVAC or Certification in BAS/EMS platforms or advanced HVAC technologies (preferred; examples: NIACC, Tridium/Niagara) is preferred.

Responsibilities

Install, operate, adjust, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, replace, and modify the full range of HVAC-R systems, including air handlers, variable frequency drives (VFDs), chillers, boilers, cooling towers, pumps, motors, compressors, duct systems, and direct expansion and hydronic systems.
Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and digital control issues using advanced tools, schematics, and specialized diagnostic software.
Maintain and repair commercial-industrial refrigeration systems (walk-ins, reach-ins, freezers, domestic refrigerators, and ice machines), including refrigerant recovery, leak detection, charging, and documentation in accordance with EPA requirements.
Conduct system testing and tuning such as valve rebuilding, airflow measurement, duct leakage testing, balancing, and heat load/loss calculations to ensure peak system performance.
Adjust and reprogram Building Automation Systems/Energy Management Systems (BAS/EMS)—including BAS platforms such as BACnet, Trane, Siemens, or Johnson Controls—to ensure comfort, efficiency, and proper system operation.
Maintain ventilation and exhaust systems, including make-up air units, shop and kitchen ventilation, heaters, and restroom/building exhaust systems.
Perform routine technical tasks such as calibrating sensors and controls, replacing belts, lubricating parts, cleaning coils, threading/cutting pipe, installing ductwork and diffusers, and replacing switches, solenoids, timers, and other control components.
Use and maintain a wide range of trade tools, including multimeters, airflow meters, temperature/humidity instruments, manifold gauges, threaders, cutting torches, and digital diagnostic equipment.
Perform scheduled preventive maintenance following APS procedures, industry standards, and manufacturer specifications for all HVAC-R systems.
Evaluate equipment condition and system performance to recommend upgrades, replacements, or modifications based on observed wear, technological changes, and lifecycle considerations.
Support development of predictive maintenance practices by using BAS data, performance trends, and sensor diagnostics to identify emerging issues.
Monitor buildings for signs of deferred maintenance or declining system performance and report findings with or without recommendations.
Use computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) to review assignments, record work performed, log materials and refrigerant use, and close work orders.
Operate digital tools, mobile applications, and telecom devices for communication, scheduling, troubleshooting, and accessing technical information.
Maintain required records such as MSDS logs, compliance documentation, material use reports, and technical service notes.
Provide courteous, proactive, and responsive support to principals, building managers, staff, and other APS personnel regarding HVAC concerns.
Investigate comfort complaints, evaluate system performance, determine root causes, and resolve issues—including making fine-tuned adjustments to satisfy comfort needs when systems are sized and balanced appropriately.
Coordinate work with contractors, vendors, inspectors, and County officials for inspections, code compliance, and specialized support.
Provide on-the-job training and task guidance to HVAC I/II staff, student workers, and special program personnel to support skill development and safe work practices.
Offer technical direction in areas of expertise, including complex diagnostics, BAS/EMS controls, or advanced repair procedures; may assume temporary work leadership in the absence of the Lead HVAC Mechanic.
Review routine maintenance work performed by lower-level staff and provide immediate corrective instruction when required.
Follow all applicable OSHA/VOSHA regulations, APS safety procedures, and county building and fire codes, ensuring the safe handling of refrigerants and hazardous materials.
Use appropriate PPE, follow lockout/tagout procedures, and maintain safe work practices while working around energized equipment, chemicals, confined spaces, and elevated locations.
Identify and report safety risks, ensure safe conditions at worksites, and respond to emergencies to restore HVAC service when necessary.
Prepare assignments by reviewing work orders, schedules, and system information; requisition parts and materials and maintain stock on the service vehicle.
Maintain regular communication with the supervisor and customers via radio, phone, or digital platforms, keeping all parties informed of progress and issues.
Drive to multiple APS sites, perform basic vehicle upkeep, and support districtwide operations requiring multi-site service.
Set up and cleanup worksites, maintain shop areas, and perform other trade-related tasks as assigned.