Refrigeration Mechanic

The University of British Columbia; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 885,121 - 1,060,200; Full time

Job summary

The University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver, BC, is seeking a Refrigeration Mechanic responsible for operating and maintaining HVAC and refrigeration systems across Mechanical Operations and related facilities. The role covers environmental chambers, data center cooling, and lab equipment, with a focus on reliability and safe operation.

As a member of the Mechanical Operations Trades, you will diagnose and repair equipment, perform preventive maintenance, and mentor apprentices while

Qualifications

• Red Seal or BCTQ Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Certification.
• 3-5 years of related experience in an industrial setting.
• Valid BC Class 5 driver's license.
• Thorough knowledge of mechanical trades practices and procedures.
• Demonstrated ability in troubleshooting.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize workload and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of the safe utilization of power and hand tools.
• 4th Class Power Engineer Certificate is desirable.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose electrical and mechanical equipment failures on refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.
• Test and optimize equipment performance for efficient operation after a repair is completed.
• Install and commission new University HVAC machinery and equipment; such as heat pumps and air conditioners.
• Perform scheduled preventative maintenance and inspections on HVAC and refrigeration equipment.
• Maintain, calibrate and repair data center cooling and environmental control systems.
• Read and interpret schematics, blueprints, operating manuals to assist in installation, diagnosis and repair.
• Communicate with customers and other trade groups to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Follow all maintenance procedures to comply with regulatory codes and safe workplace practices.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

Red Seal or BCTQ Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Certification

4th Class Power Engineer Certificate desirable

Tools

BC Class 5 driver's license

Job description

Staff - Union Job Category IUOE 115 Job Profile IUOE - Refrigeration Mechanic

Job Title Refrigeration Mechanic

Department Mechanical Operations Trades | Mechanical | Building Operations | Facilities

Compensation Range $7,263.00 - $7,263.00 CAD Monthly

Posting End Date August 30, 2026 Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

Job End Date Ongoing

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.

Job Description Summary

Refrigeration Mechanics are responsible for the operation and maintenance of UBC Mechanical, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC) and Refrigeration systems, Environmental Chambers, Heat Recovery systems, Data Centre cooling systems, Chilled water-cooling systems, and other related equipment. Refrigeration Mechanics work to ensure the most efficient and optimal performance of University HVAC and Refrigeration systems, minimize equipment downtime, maintain and extend equipment service life. Refrigeration Mechanics ensure safe operation of HVAC and refrigeration systems at all times.

Organizational Status Reports to Head Refrigeration Mechanic or Sub-Head Refrigeration Mechanic.

Work Performed

• Diagnose electrical and mechanical equipment failures and/or malfunctions on refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.
• Test and optimize equipment performance for efficient operation after a repair is completed.
• Install and commission new University HVAC machinery and equipment; such as heat pumps, and air conditioners.
• Perform scheduled preventative maintenance and inspections on HVAC and refrigeration equipment.
• Maintain, calibrate and repair data center cooling and environmental control systems.
• Maintain, calibrate, and repair lab equipment such as environmental chambers, coolers and freezers.
• Maintain, calibrate, and repair climate control systems which may include heat recovery equipment, dehumidification and humidification equipment, chillers, cooling towers and condensers.
• Read and interpret schematics, blueprints, operating manuals to assist in the installation, diagnostic and repair of equipment.
• Interpret and carry out written and/or oral instructions and create written reports as required.
• Communicate with customers and other trade groups as required to ensure the efficient delivery of service.
• Follow all maintenance procedures to ensure compliance with regulatory codes while maintaining a safe workplace environment.
• Follow safe work practices and procedures as per company policies and procedures and Work Safe regulations.
• Adhere to all relevant environmental regulations.
• Act as trainers and mentors for apprentices.
• Performs other duties related to the qualifications and requirements of the position.

Consequence of Error/Judgement

Close attention to detail is required to identify and correct equipment problems that could result in serious safety, financial and or loss of service to the University. The Refrigeration Mechanic must be able to make quick and accurate assessment of equipment failures to minimize equipment damage.

Supervision Received

Reports to Head Refrigeration Mechanic or Sub-Head Refrigeration Mechanic.

Supervision Given

None.

Minimum Qualifications

• Red Seal or BCTQ Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Certification.
• 3-5 years of related experience in an industrial setting.
• Valid B.C. Class 5 driver’s license.
• Thorough knowledge of mechanical trades practices and procedures.
• Demonstrated ability in troubleshooting.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize workload and effectively meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of the safe utilization of power and hand tools.
• 4th Class Power Engineer Certificate is desirable.
• Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own
• Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Red Seal or BCTQ Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Certification.
• 3-5 years of related experience in an industrial setting.
• Valid B.C. Class 5 driver s license.
• 4th Class Power Engineer Certificate is desirable.
• Thorough knowledge of mechanical trades practices and procedures.
• Demonstrated ability in troubleshooting.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize workload and effectively meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of the safe utilization of power and hand tools.
• Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own
• Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

The University of British Columbia is a global centre for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities globally. A large part of what makes us unique is the community of engaged students, faculty, and staff who are collectively committed to shaping a better world. Recognized as a leading employer in British Columbia and Canada, UBC supports inspired students, faculty and staff on their journey of discovery, and challenges them to realize their greatest potential. New ideas, changing infrastructure, innovative technology, and fresh approaches are opening up possibilities for the future of research, teaching, and work. Are you ready to embrace the future together?

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence.

An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged.

We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, and/or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

If you have any accommodation or accessibility needs during the job application process, please contact the Centre for Workplace Accessibility at [e-mail].