Heat and Vent Mechanic

Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA seeks a Heat and Vent Mechanic to repair and maintain heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems across campus. You will inspect equipment, operate steam heating and boiler systems, and support building automation control networks.

Responsibilities include responding to work orders, ordering parts, performing preventative maintenance, and documenting all actions.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• EPA Universal Recovery Certificate/License required.
• Five years of related trade experience or formal controls training.

Responsibilities

• Repair and maintain HVAC and refrigeration systems across campus.
• Operate and maintain steam heating systems, boilers, and controls.
• Troubleshoot and install pneumatic electronic temperature control systems.
• Process work orders, order materials, and document progress.
• Perform ongoing preventative maintenance and ensure safety compliance.

Skills

Building automation systems

Ladder diagrams reading

Blue prints & schematics

Lab experience

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

EPA Universal Recovery Certificate/License

Tools

MA Oil Burner License

Sheet Metal License

MA Universal Refrigerant Recovery Certificate

MA Refrigeration Technician Certification

Job description

HEAT AND VENT MECHANIC, Repair and Maintenance , is responsible for repairing and maintaining heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration for the Institute’s buildings and equipment. Inspects and test heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure proper functioning. Operates and maintains steam heating systems, HVAC controls, gas and oil fired heating systems and boilers, water treatment, and refrigeration systems. Trouble-shoots, repairs and install pneumatic electronic temperature control systems. Maintains repairs and rebuilds pumps, ice machines, air compressors and other building systems equipment. Receives work order assignments, orders materials and completes tasks accurately with detailed written comments provided on work orders upon completion. Completes time entry and returns work orders to supervisor on a daily basis with comments. Performs duties in accordance with MSDA’s, signage and general instructions. Performs scheduled preventative maintenance on building equipment, including but not limited to: lubricating components, changing filters, repacking valves, adjusting and replacing belts. Cleans work areas and maintains tools and equipment. Provides customers with information about the progress of work.

Job Requirements

• REQUIRED: Driver’s License; EPA Universal Recovery Certificate/License; five years of work experience in applicable trade/field, or formal controls training in mechanical operations and maintenance; High School Diploma or equivalent; and be able to move up to 50 pounds.
• PREFERRED: MA Oil Burner License and Certification; Sheet Metal License; MA Universal Refrigerant Recovery Certificate; MA Refrigeration Technician Certification; general understanding of building automation systems; knowledge of environmental rooms such as Harris Environmental; ability to read ladder diagrams, blue prints and schematics; or experience working in labs.

Working Conditions

Working conditions include ascending/descending stairs, traversing the campus, moving about the jobsite and machinery to access equipment, and/or remaining stationary for extended periods of time. Work from ladders, scaffolds and other above ground locations such as roofs. Personal Protective Equipment must be worn as required by the specific assignment. Required to wear MIT provided ARC flash rated clothing. Environment contains dust, odors, and fumes, high levels of noise and temperature extremes. Work performed near steam and moving machinery and in tight areas and confined spaces such as manholes and crawl spaces. Work performed with and around chemicals and solvents. Some work performed in research labs and animal facilities. Some work performed outdoors in inclement weather.

Employees who are assigned to an irregular shift are considered essential personnel in accordance with the MIT Policy on Emergency Closing or Early Release. During emergencies, these employees are excused from their regularly scheduled work only with the specific authorization of their supervisor, regardless of any public announcement that the Institute is closed. Must work all Institute holidays and closings.

9/28/2026