HVAC & Controls Mechanic

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An art museum in Houston is seeking an HVAC and Controls Mechanic to install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems and building automation. The successful candidate will have 3–5 years of experience, a high school diploma, and proficiency in refrigeration cycles. Responsibilities include responding to system alarms, performing diagnostics, and conducting preventive maintenance. The position requires strong troubleshooting skills and a valid driver's license. The museum is committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in HVAC service, maintenance, or controls work.
• Strong understanding of refrigeration cycles and electrical systems.
• Ability to read blueprints and control schematics.

Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, and repair commercial HVAC equipment.
• Perform diagnostics and preventive maintenance on HVAC systems.
• Respond to service calls and system alarms.

Skills

HVAC systems expertise

Troubleshooting

Preventive maintenance

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Completion of HVAC technical program

Tools

EPA 608 Certification

BAS platforms (e.g., Johnson Controls)

Job description

Location: Museum Visitors Center, 5600 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77004, USA

The HVAC and Controls Mechanic is responsible for installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and building automation systems. This role ensures optimal performance of mechanical equipment and control systems to support safe, efficient, and reliable facility operations.

Key Responsibilities

HVAC Systems

• Install, maintain, and repair commercial and industrial HVAC equipment, including air handlers, chillers, boilers, pumps, VAVs, VRF systems, and exhaust systems.
• Perform diagnostics on mechanical systems to identify issues related to airflow, refrigerant charge, electrical components, and mechanical wear.
• Conduct preventive maintenance, including filter changes, lubrication, belt replacement, coil cleaning, and system performance checks.
• Interpret mechanical drawings, schematics, and equipment manuals.

Controls & Automation

• Install, configure, and troubleshoot building automation systems (BAS), including sensors, actuators, controllers, and networked control devices.
• Calibrate control components to ensure accurate system operation.
• Diagnose communication issues within BAS networks and field devices.
• Assist in programming or modifying control sequences under the direction of controls engineers or supervisors.

General Duties

• Respond to service calls and system alarms in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate documentation of work performed, parts used, and system conditions.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, building codes, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with facility managers, engineers, and other trades to support building operations.
• Provide recommendations for system improvements, energy efficiency, and equipment upgrades.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of an HVAC technical program or apprenticeship.
• 3–5 years of experience in HVAC service, maintenance, or controls work.
• Strong understanding of refrigeration cycles, electrical systems, and mechanical principles.
• Ability to read blueprints, wiring diagrams, and control schematics.
• EPA 608 Certification (Type II or Universal).
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred

• Experience with BAS platforms (e.g., Johnson Controls, Siemens, Honeywell).
• Knowledge of BACnet, Modbus, or LonWorks communication protocols.
• State HVAC license or journeyman certification.
• Experience in commercial or industrial facilities.
• Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks.
• Excellent communication and documentation abilities.
• Familiarity with digital tools, CMMS systems, and mobile work order platforms.
• Commitment to safety and continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Work in confined spaces, on ladders, rooftops, and mechanical rooms.
• Tolerance for varying temperatures and environmental conditions.

Equal Opportunities for All

At the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston we believe that diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusivity are fundamental to our organization. We welcome all candidates whose experience has prepared them to contribute to our organization and to our pledge for workplace diversity, inclusion, and excellence.

Our commitment to our policy and practice of nondiscrimination represents more than good intentions. It provides for employment decisions that are made without regard to race, creed, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as established by law or any other reason unrelated to your ability to join and contribute to our organization and support our mission to provide a museum experience for all.

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is equally committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals interested in employment with the organization. As part of this commitment, we want to ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation needed to 1) participate in the job application or 2) interview process; 3) perform essential job functions; and/or 4) participate in the benefits and privileges of employment with the MFAH. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the human resources department: [e-mail]

Equal Opportunity Employer. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.