Facilities

HVAC Maintenance Technician job description

An HVAC Maintenance Technician performs preventive maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics on complex climate control systems to ensure efficient facility operation.

Published October 17, 2025Updated May 16, 202611227 likes

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Job brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented HVAC Maintenance Technician to join our facilities team and manage the climate control infrastructure of our multi-site operations. In this role, you will lead preventive maintenance programs, execute repairs on complex mechanical systems, and ensure our facility meets all local safety and environmental codes. You will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge building automation technology and play a critical role in maintaining a comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient environment. If you are a certified technician who takes pride in system reliability and precision engineering, we want you on our team.

Key highlights

Execute comprehensive preventive maintenance schedules on commercial HVAC systems including chillers, cooling towers, boilers, and variable air volume (VAV) units.
Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, and control system malfunctions using professional-grade diagnostic tools, multimeters, and vacuum pumps.
Monitor and adjust Building Management System (BMS) configurations to optimize thermal output and minimize utility consumption across the facility portfolio.
Perform EPA-certified refrigerant recovery and charging processes while adhering to all environmental regulations and safety documentation requirements.

What is a HVAC Maintenance Technician?

An HVAC Maintenance Technician is a skilled facilities professional responsible for the installation, inspection, and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. By utilizing technical diagnostic tools and following strict ASHRAE standards, an HVAC Maintenance Technician ensures optimal indoor air quality and thermal comfort across commercial or industrial properties. Their expertise in thermodynamics and mechanical troubleshooting is essential for maintaining building system integrity and reducing energy consumption costs.

What does a HVAC Maintenance Technician do?

On a typical day, an HVAC Maintenance Technician performs routine preventive maintenance on chillers, boilers, RTUs, and air handlers, while verifying proper refrigerant levels and electrical connections. They use digital multimeters and pressure gauges to troubleshoot system performance, replacing worn components like capacitors, contactors, or fan motors to prevent equipment failure. This professional interacts with Building Management Systems (BMS) to optimize climate settings and coordinates with facility managers to address urgent comfort complaints and maintenance work orders.

Key responsibilities

Execute comprehensive preventive maintenance schedules on commercial HVAC systems including chillers, cooling towers, boilers, and variable air volume (VAV) units.
Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, and control system malfunctions using professional-grade diagnostic tools, multimeters, and vacuum pumps.
Monitor and adjust Building Management System (BMS) configurations to optimize thermal output and minimize utility consumption across the facility portfolio.
Perform EPA-certified refrigerant recovery and charging processes while adhering to all environmental regulations and safety documentation requirements.
Manage the installation and calibration of thermostats, actuators, dampers, and sensors to ensure precise environmental control within sensitive work areas.
Coordinate with third-party vendors and external contractors for specialized heavy equipment overhauls, major system retrofits, or large-scale HVAC upgrades.
Maintain accurate electronic logs of all repairs, parts inventory, and labor hours within our Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
Identify potential system failures through proactive vibration analysis and thermal imaging, implementing repairs before equipment downtime disrupts facility operations.

Requirements and skills

Minimum 3+ years of professional experience in commercial or industrial HVAC maintenance and troubleshooting.
Current EPA Universal Certification for handling refrigerants and compliance with environmental safety standards.
Deep technical knowledge of electrical schematics, mechanical blueprints, and complex control wiring for various HVAC hardware brands.
Proficiency in operating and navigating Building Management Systems (BMS) such as Honeywell, Johnson Controls, or Siemens platforms.
Completed vocational training or a degree in HVAC/R technology, mechanical engineering, or a related trade field.
Experience using CMMS software to track work orders, asset lifecycle, and inventory management for facility operations.
Strong mechanical aptitude and the physical ability to work in confined spaces, on ladders, or outdoors in varying climate conditions.
OSHA 30-Hour General Industry certification or equivalent workplace safety training related to high-voltage equipment and pressure vessels.

FAQs

What does an HVAC Maintenance Technician do?

An HVAC Maintenance Technician ensures that building climate systems operate reliably by performing scheduled maintenance, diagnosing mechanical issues, and executing technical repairs. They work on a variety of hardware including air handlers, chillers, and boiler systems to manage temperature and indoor air quality. By keeping these complex systems calibrated and running efficiently, they prevent costly equipment failures and ensure the safety of the facility's occupants.

What skills are required to be an HVAC Maintenance Technician?

Essential skills include deep knowledge of thermodynamics, electrical troubleshooting, and the ability to read complex mechanical schematics. Technicians must be proficient in using diagnostic tools like digital gauges and multimeters, and they often need expertise in Building Management Systems (BMS). Additionally, strong documentation skills for CMMS reporting and a commitment to safety protocols—such as those dictated by EPA and OSHA—are mandatory.

What certifications does an HVAC Maintenance Technician need?

The most critical certification for this role is the EPA Section 608 Universal Certification, which is legally required to handle refrigerants. Many employers also prioritize trade school diplomas or associates degrees in HVAC/R technology. Professional certifications from organizations like NATE (North American Technician Excellence) or specific manufacturer training are highly regarded and often lead to career advancement.

Why is the HVAC Maintenance Technician role important to a company?

This role is vital because HVAC systems represent one of the largest utility expenses and most complex mechanical investments for any building. An HVAC Maintenance Technician directly impacts the bottom line by improving energy efficiency, extending the lifespan of expensive assets, and preventing emergency downtime. Their work ensures that the workplace remains compliant with environmental standards while providing a safe, comfortable environment for employees and clients.