HVAC Mechanic Job Description, Duties, and Responsibilities

This post provides detailed information on the HVAC mechanic job description, including the key duties, tasks, and responsibilities they typically perform.

It also highlights the major requirements you may be expected to fulfill to be hired for the HVAC mechanic role.

What Does an HVAC Mechanic Do?

The HVAC mechanic is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing all forms of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, equipment, and components, including refrigeration, low temp, and air conditioning equipment.

His/her job description entails rewiring high voltage ON HVAC equipment and carrying out routine inspection of equipment and systems.

His/her role also involves analyzing operations of HVAC systems, spotting problem areas and repairing heating systems, reciprocating chillers, split units, boilers, steam systems, and other similar components/control systems.

The work description of HVAC mechanics also include lubricating bearings, changing filters, replacing belts, maintaining electrical and pneumatic controls, and checking seals.

The also read and interpret schematic drawings and blueprints to effectively carry out work assignments.

These mechanics are able to perform assigned HVAC duties effectively by applying hand tools and other equipment, including soldering, gantry, test, and brazing equipment.

To reduce the possible risks and hazards of the occupation, the mechanic needs to ensure the necessary precautions when handling hazardous materials, chemicals, and power equipment.

HVAC Mechanic Job Description Example/Sample/Template

HVAC mechanics perform various functions in ensuring effective installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC equipment to the satisfaction of their clients/customers.

The job descriptions of individuals working in this role may differ slightly from company to company as a result of the peculiar needs of different organizations; however, most HVAC mechanics commonly perform the following duties, tasks, and responsibilities:

• Carry out repair, maintenance, or installation of equipment for the generation, utilization, or distribution of commercial systems
• Perform inspection, maintenance, adjustment, and repair of equipment to ensure constant and reliable indoor air comfort, as well as laboratory or critical environments
• Handle and repair test equipment, complex centrifugal chillers, direct expansion and chilled water-based cooling systems, large air handlers, electronic and pneumatic direct digital control systems, and air distribution systems
• Operate, procure, introduce, and get back HFC, HCFC, and CFC refrigerants
• Perform repairs and maintenance of reach in, walk in, stand alone ice machines, central plan chillers, pumps, free standing A/C units, refrigerators, roof top cooling units, and guest rooms A/C units
• Maintain inventory of parts and supplies of air conditioning and refrigeration equipment
• Design an effective preventive maintenance program to ensure maintenance of equipment is scheduled and carried out regularly as at when due
• Carry out chemical test on cooling tower and chilled water loop as required
• Ensure proper air circulation on the air handler by balancing airflow
• Assess vendor specifications and proposals and give recommendations to the customer; supervise material purchase following customer’s ordering procedures
• Perform low voltage wiring; handle BAS system Direct Digital Controllers (DDC)
• Diagnose and effect mechanical, plumbing, and electrical repairs to HVAC equipment
• Carry out regular periodic plumbing and maintenance tasks as needed.

Requirements – Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge – for HVAC Mechanic Role

When hiring for the HVAC mechanic role, employers commonly look for certain skills, qualities, knowledge, educational training, and experience in applicants that will be useful for them to succeed on the job.

Below is a highlight of typical employers’ requirements for the HVAC mechanic position that interested individuals must satisfy to be considered for the role:

• Possess two years experience maintaining, repairing, or installing refrigeration and HVAC units, equipment, and systems; or associate’s degree in HVAC/refrigeration systems; or a two-year technical HVAC/refrigeration training program successfully completed after high school; or an equivalent combination of training and experience
• Strong knowledge of the hazards associated with the occupation, and the safety precautions to maintain all times; examples include knowledge of procedures in handling chemicals such as degreasers, cleaners, Freon, and acids
• Possess required permits and licenses by local laws and ordinances to repair, maintain, and operate refrigeration and HVAC systems and equipment
• Strong ability to give attention to detail and be accurate in performing work duties
• Strong ability to make sound professional judgement and uphold ethics and confidentiality
• Strong communication skills and ability to apply sound discretion
• Available and willing to be called upon any time, including off working hours to handle emergency duties
• Ability to climb and maneuver on tight spaces, ladders, and work and staging platforms; ability to lift items weighing up to 50 pounds; strong ability to climb over and around equipment in construction locations; and ability to work 80-90% of the time standing.
• Strong ability to read and comprehend electrical and mechanical plans and wiring diagrams; and adhere to safety guidelines.

Conclusion

If you are an employer in the process of hiring for the HVAC mechanic position, the sample work description in this post will help you create a good description for the role in your organization, which can assist you in your recruitment process in getting the right candidates.

As a job seeker interested in the HVAC equipment maintenance career, you will find information in this article helpful in learning about what HVAC mechanics do, which makes you better informed and able to make the right decisions about the career.