Senior Specialist - HVAC (Non-Sterile)

Julphar; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A pharmaceutical company in the United Arab Emirates seeks a Senior HVAC Specialist to oversee HVAC systems for non-sterile production facilities. Responsibilities include managing compliance, leading maintenance activities, and mentoring HVAC technicians. A Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or HVAC Engineering and 3-5 years of relevant experience are essential, along with a deep understanding of GMP standards.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years experience in HVAC for pharmaceutical non-sterile production.
• Familiarity with FDA and WHO regulations.
• Experience in preventive and corrective HVAC maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Manage HVAC systems for production areas.
• Ensure compliance with GMP and regulatory standards.
• Lead maintenance programs for HVAC equipment.

Skills

GMP compliance knowledge

Precision in HVAC system design

Problem-solving skills

Ability to interpret technical drawings

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or HVAC Engineering

Tools

Building Management Systems (BMS)

Job description

Position Summary

The Senior HVAC Specialist will be responsible for the reliable and compliant operation of HVAC systems supporting non-sterile pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, including production, packaging, warehouses, and support areas. The role focuses on ensuring consistent environmental conditions, GMP compliance, and energy-efficient operations in line with pharmaceutical standards.

Key Responsibilities

HVAC System Oversight

• Manage and optimize HVAC systems for non-sterile production areas, including temperature, humidity, and pressure control.
• Ensure proper zoning and segregation to prevent cross-contamination between different product types and manufacturing stages.

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure all HVAC systems operate in compliance with cGMP, WHO guidelines, and company SOPs.
• Review and maintain documentation related to HVAC performance, maintenance, and change controls.
• Support validation and qualification efforts as per risk-based approaches suitable for non-sterile environments.

Maintenance & Reliability

• Lead the preventive and corrective maintenance programs for HVAC systems, including AHUs, chillers, exhaust systems, and ductwork.
• Monitor HVAC performance trends and address any deviations or inefficiencies promptly.

Project & Engineering Support

• Provide technical input for HVAC design in new non-sterile areas or expansion projects.
• Participate in project planning, equipment selection, commissioning, and qualification activities.
• Review HVAC-related engineering drawings, control logic, and system architecture.

Monitoring & Troubleshooting

• Ensure optimal air quality and environmental parameters in compliance with defined limits for non-sterile manufacturing zones.
• Investigate and resolve HVAC-related issues, including comfort concerns, air quality problems, or energy inefficiencies.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to optimize HVAC energy consumption and improve operational efficiency.
• Participate in energy audits and sustainability initiatives where applicable.

Team Support & Training

• Mentor HVAC technicians and junior engineers.
• Support cross-functional teams by sharing HVAC knowledge, particularly during investigations or system upgrades.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, HVAC Engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in HVAC systems for pharmaceutical non-sterile production environments.
• Knowledge of HVAC system design, AHU components, filtration levels (typically G4 to F9), and control systems (BMS).
• Familiar with regulatory expectations for oral solid dosage, liquid manufacturing, and non-sterile product areas.
• Experience in audits and technical support for regulatory inspections.

Key Competencies

• Sound knowledge of GMP standards, HVAC zoning for non-sterile facilities, and risk-based contamination control.
• Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and system optimization skills.
• Ability to interpret HVAC technical drawings, air balancing reports, and system specifications.
• Excellent communication, documentation, and teamwork skills.

Preferred Certifications

• HVAC system maintenance, energy efficiency, or engineering certifications (e.g., Certified HVAC Professional).
• Training in GMP compliance or pharmaceutical engineering fundamentals.