Cooling Tower Technician

Ambient; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 28,413 - 40,467; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Dental/Vision insurance

HSAs/FSAs

Life/Disability Insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

EAP

Professional development and training

Tuition reimbursement

Volunteer time and wellness

Job summary

Johnson Barrow seeks a Tower Technician to inspect, maintain, repair, and coat cooling towers and related mechanical systems. The role emphasizes safety, field work, and reliable service to ensure high-performance building systems.

Primary duties are field-based with travel to customer sites, working outdoors in all weather, and strict adherence to safety standards. Starting hourly pay is competitive, with a comprehensive benefits package and travel reimbursement.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience in HVAC, mechanical service, or industrial equipment maintenance preferred.
• Knowledge of cooling tower systems and components a plus.
• Ability to use basic hand and power tools safely and effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to communicate clearly and work both independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Inspect cooling towers for proper water levels, water quality, and overall unit condition.
• Perform routine maintenance on fans, motors, pumps, gearboxes, and related equipment.
• Clean and maintain heat exchangers, tube bundles, and other system components.
• Apply industrial coatings and perform repairs to extend equipment life and protect against corrosion.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot performance issues, providing timely solutions and repairs.
• Document all inspections, maintenance work, and service activities accurately.
• Collaborate with other technicians and project teams to support efficient operations.
• Ensure strict compliance with safety protocols, including PPE use, fall protection, and procedures for working at heights.

Skills

HVAC knowledge

Problem-solving

Communication

Clean driving record

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Job description

About Johnson Barrow

Johnson Barrow is a leading HVAC manufacturers’ representative in the Pacific Northwest, dedicated to helping people succeed by delivering unbiased consultative services and premium quality mechanical equipment. For over 60 years, we have partnered with engineers, contractors, and building owners to design and implement high-performance building systems that balance energy efficiency, operational reliability, and occupant comfort. Our culture is entrepreneurial at its core — we empower our people to think like business owners, act with urgency, and build lasting relationships. Guided by our values, we stand by every project from concept through completion, advocating for our customers every step of the way.

Position Summary

The Tower Technician is responsible for performing inspection, maintenance, repair, and protective coating services on cooling towers and related mechanical systems. This role ensures towers operate safely, efficiently, and reliably, supporting Johnson Barrow’s commitment to delivering high-quality service and long-term customer satisfaction. Tower Technicians work primarily in the field and must adhere to strict safety standards, often working at heights and in outdoor environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspect cooling towers for proper water levels, water quality, and overall unit condition.
• Perform routine maintenance on fans, motors, pumps, gearboxes, and related equipment.
• Clean and maintain heat exchangers, tube bundles, and other system components.
• Apply industrial coatings and perform repairs to extend equipment life and protect against corrosion.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot performance issues, providing timely solutions and repairs.
• Document all inspections, maintenance work, and service activities accurately.
• Collaborate with other technicians and project teams to support efficient operations.
• Ensure strict compliance with safety protocols, including PPE use, fall protection, and procedures for working at heights.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience in HVAC, mechanical service, or industrial equipment maintenance preferred.
• Knowledge of cooling tower systems and components a plus.
• Ability to use basic hand and power tools safely and effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to communicate clearly and work both independently and as part of a team.

Working Conditions

• Primarily field-based role with regular travel to customer sites.
• Work performed outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Standard business hours, Monday–Friday, with overtime or weekend work as required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, and enter confined spaces safely.
• Ability to wear required PPE (respirator, fall protection, gloves, safety glasses, etc.).
• Ability to stand, kneel, and crouch for extended periods while performing maintenance tasks.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Drug and alcohol screening.
• DOT physical, respirator physical, and fit test.
• Background check.
• Driver’s abstract review.

Compensation

This is an hourly, non-exempt role with competitive pay based on experience and qualifications. Starting at $25/hr, Johnson Barrow also offers a comprehensive benefits package and reimburses business-related travel expenses in accordance with company policy.

Total Rewards

• Competitive compensation with bonus opportunities tied to individual and company performance
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health savings account (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA) options
• Life and disability insurance401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Volunteer time and wellness initiatives

EEO Statement

At Johnson Barrow, we believe our strength comes from the diverse experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives of our people. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and supported to succeed. We welcome applicants of all races, colors, ancestries, national origins, religions, creeds, ages, sexes, genders, gender identities and expressions, sexual orientations, marital or family statuses, pregnancies, physical or mental disabilities, genetic information, veteran or military statuses, and any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, provincial, or local laws. Guided by our core values: Helping People Succeed, Building Partnerships for Life, Relentless Customer Service, and a Sense of Urgency, we strive to ensure every team member can contribute fully and thrive.