HVAC Service and Maintenance Operative

Solent University; Southampton; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Solent University is hiring an HVAC Maintenance Operative to maintain and ensure the efficient operation of HVAC systems across the campus. This role includes performing repairs, servicing, and compliance with health and safety regulations. You will work closely with the Technical Services team to provide a comfortable environment for students, staff, and visitors.

Benefits

Excellent benefits package

Qualifications

• Experience in HVAC maintenance in a customer-facing environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong understanding of health & safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance, servicing, and repairs on HVAC systems.
• Diagnose and resolve technical issues.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities.

Skills

Problem-solving

Technical support

Health & safety knowledge

Education

City and Guilds/BESA/LCL Level 2

Job description

The HVAC Maintenance Operative at Solent University will be responsible for Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM), reactive maintenance, and repairs to ensure HVAC systems remain compliant and effective for the learning environment. Key tasks include servicing heat pumps, VRV/VRF systems, split systems, chiller units, and conducting F-Gas compliance testing.

You will diagnose and repair faults, including evacuating and recharging systems, replacing faulty controls, condensate pumps, and troubleshooting HVAC issues. Accurate technical documentation of all maintenance work and materials used will be essential.

As part of the Technical Services team, you will work closely with the Building Services Engineer, helping resolve mechanical system issues and supporting colleagues through knowledge-sharing. You will also liaise with university staff and students, ensuring maintenance activities are well-coordinated.

Additional responsibilities include supporting specialist contractors, conducting plant inspections, maintaining records through the Planon CAFM system, and assisting with campus events when required. Occasional work outside standard hours may be necessary to support essential maintenance tasks.

About The Role

Solent University is seeking a dedicated HVAC Maintenance Operative to join our Estates team. In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining, servicing, and ensuring the efficient operation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems across the university campus. Your work will directly contribute to creating a comfortable and safe environment for students, staff, and visitors.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine maintenance, servicing, and repairs on HVAC systems.
• Diagnose and resolve technical issues to ensure optimal performance.
• Conduct system testing to maintain safety and efficiency standards.
• Assist in compliance with health & safety regulations.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities and provide technical support as required.
  
  

Work Pattern

You will be part of Technical Services team working a standard 5-day week. The role is based at our city centre campus but there will be a requirement to attend our satellite sites as needed.

Requirements

• Experience working in HVAC maintenance, ideally in a customer-facing environment, in HE is an advantage.
• Either a City and Guilds, BESA or LCL awards qualification to at least level 2 but preferably level 1.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of health & safety regulations related to HVAC systems.
  
  

People come to work at Solent because we are a modern and ambitious university with exciting plans for the future. We focus on the practical side of higher education, providing connections and confidence to turn knowledge into careers with real impact.

By working together, we aim to create an inclusive, healthy environment that fosters professional growth and excellence. If you are passionate about HVAC maintenance and want to be part of a forward-thinking university, we would love to hear from you!

Solent University offers an excellent benefits package. More Information.

We are Confident. We are Progressive. We are Inclusive. We Are Solent.