Building Systems Technician - University Center - Building Operations

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater; Whitewater (WI); On-site; USD 30,307 - 41,328; Full time

Job summary

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater seeks a Building Systems Technician (HVAC Mechanic) for University Center building operations. The role focuses on HVAC, building automation, and mechanical equipment across several campus facilities, with emphasis on safety and efficiency.

Reporting to the UC Facilities Services Supervisor, you will perform maintenance, inspections, and repairs, supervise student crews, and support events while coordinating with FP&M, Housing, and Dining Services to

Qualifications

• H.S. Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 1 year building maintenance experience, including HVAC or mechanical systems.
• Aptitude in business computing (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, work order systems).
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Monitors, tests, maintains, and repairs HVAC systems, related equipment, and controls.
• Performs preventative maintenance and documents activity on equipment.
• Identifies and troubleshoots system problems; coordinates with FP&M and vendors.
• Inspects and repairs plumbing, electrical, refrigeration, and related equipment.
• Supervises student maintenance work crews and guides daily tasks.

Skills

HVAC knowledge

Building maintenance

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

HS Diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Work order systems

Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.

Position Title

Building Systems Technician - University Center - Building Operations

Job Category

University Staff

Employment Type

Regular

Job Profile

HVAC Mechanic

Job Duties

Building Operations in the University Center and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater seeks a Building Systems Technician (HVAC Mechanic, FP043).

Position Summary

The Building Systems Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing environmental control and refrigeration systems to ensure proper operation of equipment within assigned facilities. This position supports the University Center, Drumlin and Esker Dining Halls, and the Moraine Bookstore, with a primary focus on HVAC systems, building automation, and mechanical equipment.

The position also inspects, maintains, and repairs specialized equipment and facilities to ensure property meets established standards and to prevent further damage, while assisting with construction, design, and operational maintenance as needed. This role supports a wide range of building systems including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, plumbing, electrical, and food service equipment.

This position reports directly to the UC Facilities Services Supervisor and is classified at level 2 for risk of exposure to blood borne pathogens. Work shifts are typically Monday–Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with flexibility required for special events, emergencies, and occasional evening/weekend or on-call responsibilities.

The Building Systems Technician collaborates closely with campus partners including University Housing, Facilities Planning & Management (FP&M), Dining Services, and other stakeholders to ensure building systems are operating efficiently, safely, and in alignment with campus standards.

Job Responsibilities

HVAC Systems, Mechanical Maintenance, and Inspections

• Monitors, tests, maintains, and repairs Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, related equipment, and controls according to established policies and procedures. Includes air handling units, exhaust systems, refrigeration, and building automation controls.
• Performs scheduled preventative and routine maintenance and documents activity on equipment and systems to ensure optimal and safe operation.
• Identifies, prioritizes, troubleshoots, and escalates system problems, equipment malfunctions, and repair needs. Coordinates with FP&M, contractors, and vendors for complex repairs.
• Inspects, maintains, and repairs specialized equipment and facilities to ensure property meets established standards and to prevent further damage. Includes plumbing, electrical, refrigeration, and food service equipment systems.
• Utilizes specialized equipment to repair and maintain complex machinery, equipment, and facility property to ensure optimal operation.
• Performs routine and non-routine facility inspections and monitors cleanliness. Ensures building systems meet safety, operational, and environmental standards.
• Performs general building maintenance including carpentry, finishes, doors/hardware, and minor electrical/plumbing repairs to support overall facility operations.
• Supports special events and high-use operations by ensuring HVAC and building systems are functioning effectively.
• Supervises and directs student maintenance work crews and provides guidance on daily maintenance tasks.

Project Work, Installation, and System Improvements

• Assists trades, crafts, vendors, and technical staff with construction, design and operational maintenance as needed. Includes HVAC system upgrades, component replacement, and system optimization.
• Assists with installation and modification of HVAC systems, controls, conduit, wiring, and related infrastructure in compliance with applicable codes and standards.
• Collaborates with FP&M, Housing, and Dining Services to align projects with campus standards and ensure minimal disruption to operations.
• Develops and schedules operational work plans for staff occasionally. Supports coordination of maintenance activities and project timelines.

Service Response, Administration, and Coordination

• Receives, prioritizes, and responds to service requests according to established timelines and policies. Ensures timely resolution of HVAC and building system issues.
• Troubleshoots, escalates, and documents issues according to established policies and procedures. Maintains accurate maintenance logs and system documentation.
• Receives, inspects, inventories, and distributes deliveries independently to appropriate entities. Includes parts, tools, and HVAC/mechanical equipment.
• Enters, tracks, and completes work orders (TMA) for UC, Drumlin, Esker, and Bookstore facilities.
• Estimates materials and labor, orders supplies, and maintains purchasing and credit card records.
• Communicates system status, project updates, and maintenance needs with UC leadership and campus partners including FP&M, Housing, and Dining Services.

Supervision Received

General supervision is received from the UC Facilities Services Supervisor.

Supervision Exercised

May direct and oversee the work of student maintenance staff (4).

Conditions Of Appointment

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term. If you have questions regarding this, please contact Human Resources. UW-Whitewater is not an e-verify employer, therefore STEM extensions are not options for work authorization.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Identifies, prioritizes, troubleshoots, and escalates system problems, equipment malfunctions, and repair needs
• Performs scheduled preventative and routine maintenance and documents activity on equipment and systems to ensure optimal and safe operation
• Monitors, tests, maintains, and repairs Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, related equipment, and controls according to established policies and procedures
• Develops and schedules operational work plans for staff occasionally
• Receives, prioritizes, and responds to service requests according to established timelines and policies

Department

University Center - Building Operations

Compensation

Well-qualified candidates can expect a starting hourly wage commensurate with the candidate's education, related experience, and qualifications.

UW System employees receive an excellent benefit package. To learn more about the UW System's comprehensive benefit package, review the UW System Employee Benefits Brochure.

Required Qualifications

• H.S. Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of one (1) year of building maintenance experience, including HVAC or mechanical systems.
• Demonstrated aptitude in business computing (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, work order systems).
• Must possess a valid driver’s license that meets UW Risk Management standards.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience maintaining and troubleshooting HVAC systems, controls, and building automation systems.
• Experience with refrigeration systems and EPA certification.
• Experience maintaining and repairing food service or commercial kitchen equipment.
• Experience in commercial or institutional maintenance environments.
• Knowledge of preventative maintenance programs and energy-efficient building operations.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Ability to demonstrate skill in HVAC systems, building systems maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with campus stakeholders.
• Ability to work collaboratively with students, contractors, and university staff.
• Ability to coordinate maintenance activities with campus partners such as FP&M, Housing, and Dining Services.
• Ability to maintain a safe and organized work environment.
• Ability to climb ladders and work above head and shoulders.
• Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds.
• Demonstrated customer service orientation and ability to support a student-centered environment.
• Ability to interact respectfully with people with diverse socioeconomic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
• Willingness and ability to be an active participant in following applicable safety rules and regulations including necessary training and drills.

How To Apply

Only complete application packages will be considered. This includes online submission of the following documents:

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Name and contact information for three professional references

Contact Information

If you have questions regarding this recruitment or if you are unable to complete the application online due to a disability or system problem, please contact us at [phone] or [e-mail].

For Questions Regarding This Position, Please Contact

Joellen Shelton

email: [e-mail]

phone: [phone]

To Ensure Consideration

Applications received by May 29th, 2026 are ensured full consideration. Applications received after that date may be given consideration at the discretion of the search committee. The most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process.

Campus Information

UW-Whitewater is a thriving public university located in southeastern Wisconsin. It leads the way in providing world‑class, affordable higher education programs to more students than neighboring regional comprehensives in the University of Wisconsin System. A collaborative team of 1,300 faculty and staff are devoted to the success of the university’s 11,500 students at its main and Rock County campuses. The team provides high‑impact practices and academic programs — online and in person — from associate to doctoral levels. Recognized nationally for affordability, inclusion, and career development, UWW serves approximately one-third first‑generation students and boasts strength in many areas, especially business and education. The campus and community embrace the Warhawk Family spirit, supporting the university’s arts and nationally recognized NCAA Division‑III level championship athletics. As a proud institution of access, more than 10 percent of undergraduate students use the acclaimed Center for Students with Disabilities — a priority mission since the 1970s.

UW-Whitewater’s campuses are located centrally near Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago, offering easy access to the cultural and commercial opportunities of major metropolitan areas. Near both Lake Geneva and the Wisconsin Dells, the area attracts numerous visitors from across the country. Whitewater is a vibrant college community near the Kettle Moraine State Forest offering area residents seasonal outdoor enjoyment. The nearby Rock County campus is located in Janesville, a town of 60,000 located on the Rock River and known as Wisconsin’s Park Place.

Organization Information

The University of Wisconsin‑Whitewater is part of the 13‑campus Universities of Wisconsin (https://www.wisconsin.edu).

Wisconsin Statute 19.36(7)(b) provides that applicants may indicate in writing that their identity should be kept confidential. In response to a public records request, the University will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful final candidate will be released. See Wisconsin Statute 19.36(7)(a).

Per Regent Policy Document 20‑19, University of Wisconsin System Criminal Background Check Policy and Universities of Wisconsin Administrative Policy 1275 Recruitment Policies, UW‑Whitewater requires criminal background checks as a contingency to employment. A criminal background check will be conducted before an offer of employment. All final candidates must be asked, prior to hire, whether they have been found to have engaged in, are currently under investigation for, or left employment during an active investigation in which they were accused of sexual violence or sexual harassment. When obtaining employment reference checks, these same sexual violence or harassment questions must also be asked.

The University of Wisconsin‑Whitewater requires that all employees be active participants in following applicable safety rules and regulations including necessary training and drills.

For UW‑Whitewater Campus safety information and crime statistics/annual Security Report, see Annual Security and Fire Safety Report if you would like a paper copy of the report please contact the UW‑Whitewater Police at 262‑472‑4660.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

UW‑Whitewater is an equal opportunity employer.