HVAC Mechanic III

Texas.gov - State of Texas Official Website; Rusk (TX); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team at a state facility where your skills as an HVAC Mechanic III will make a significant impact on the lives of many. This role involves advanced work in maintaining heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for all. You'll lead projects, train others, and collaborate with a supportive team, all while enjoying a comprehensive benefits package that includes 100% paid health insurance. If you're passionate about HVAC and want to contribute to the well-being of your community, this opportunity is for you.

Benefits

100% Paid Employee Health Insurance

Defined Benefit Pension Plan

Generous Time Off Benefits

Career Advancement Opportunities

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in HVAC work, including installations and repairs.
• Knowledge of life safety code standards and HVAC systems.
• Ability to lead and train others in HVAC tasks.

Responsibilities

• Perform installation, maintenance, and repairs on HVAC systems.
• Oversee and lead HVAC-related tasks for the maintenance team.
• Maintain accurate records of repairs and equipment performance.

Skills

HVAC Systems Maintenance

Refrigeration Systems

Heating Systems

Preventive Maintenance

Team Leadership

Education

High School Diploma

Vocational Training in HVAC

Associate Degree in HVAC

Tools

Hand Tools

Power Tools

Safety Equipment

Job description

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

Functional Title:HVAC Mechanic III

Job Title:HVAC Mechanic III

Agency:Health & Human Services Comm

Department:Plant Maintenance

Posting Number:5348

Closing Date:05/19/2025

Posting Audience:Internal and External

Occupational Category:Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance

Salary Group:TEXAS-A-20

Salary Range:$4,263.16-$6,779.16

Shift:Day

Additional Shift:Days (First)

Telework:Not Eligible for Telework

Travel:Up to 5%

Regular/Temporary:Regular

Full Time/Part Time:Full time

FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt:Nonexempt

Facility Location:Rusk State Hospital

Job Location City:RUSK

Job Location Address:805 N DICKINSON DR

Other Locations:

MOS Codes:

1161,6073,6499,3E1X1,91C,EN,MK,MM,UT

Brief Job Description:

Would you thrive in an environment where you learn and grow personally and professionally all while helping make a positive impact on people's lives? Do you appreciate being around others like yourself who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of teamwork? HSCS is dedicated to building an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. HSCS is comprised of nine psychiatric hospitals, one youth residential treatment facility, and thirteen state supported living centers. The psychiatric hospitals are a hub of excellence for forensic mental health and complex psychiatric care, with all facilities accredited by The Joint Commission. They provide state-of-the-art treatment that is recovery-oriented and science-based. If providing hope and healing through compassionate, innovative, and individualized care interests you, we welcome your application for the position below.

The HVAC Mechanic III, Lead HVAC Mechanic, performs advanced (senior-level) work in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) building maintenance and construction trade at a State Supported Living Center or State Hospital. Maintains safe and uninterrupted heating and air conditioning services to facility operations and utility systems in accordance with Texas Administrative Code (T.A.C.) and life safety code standards. Collaborates with maintenance supervisor on long-term HVAC maintenance and renovation projects. Work involves performing, scheduling, and/or overseeing the work of installation, adjustments, alterations, inspections, maintenance, repairs, and restorations of chilled water systems, direct exchange systems, refrigerated systems, heating systems to include boilers/steam systems, and automated controls. Works on refrigeration units, such as ice machines, walk in freezer vaults and residential refrigerators, and water-based heating and cooling systems such as chillers and boilers. Assigns, schedules, and prioritizes the work of other staff assisting with HVAC work to accomplish daily and weekly tasks most effectively. Maintains accurate records of equipment performance and work completed. Serves a team lead on HVAC projects and develops the schedules for routine work. Trains others to perform HVAC work and use the equipment commensurate with skills and training. Performs and documents inspections in accordance with applicable life safety code standards. Assists in air quality sampling. Oversees and monitors controls, temperatures and humidity levels, and monitors energy consumption. Changes filters routinely, and air handler belts and other parts as necessary. Coordinates parts and material acquisition requirements. Properly uses, cleans, stores, inventories, and performs minor repairs on tools used. Works as a team member with other members of the maintenance department and/or other employees to complete tasks including, but not limited to, operating motorized vehicles, making deliveries, and picking up supplies. Performs other duties as assigned to ensure the overall safe operations of the facility.

As needed, works some weekend and/or after-hours callouts, to respond to situations impacting safe facility operations. Works under the minimal supervision of a maintenance technician lead person or other appropriate staff depending on facility structure, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned. May serve in an on-call status on a rotating schedule as required to meet operational needs of the facility.

Oversees and/or performs installation, adjustments, alterations, inspections, maintenance, repairs, and restorations of chilled water systems, direct exchange systems, refrigerated systems, heating systems to include boilers/steam systems, and automated controls, utility systems, and ventilation systems to include duct work. Repairs or replaces defective components such as coils, evaporators, condensers, fans, driers and air handlers, and pumps. Builds, modifies, and installs ductwork. Replaces defective compressors on refrigeration systems, cleans and recharges systems, and replaces motors and thermostats, as necessary. Overhauls air compressors and pumps associated with HVAC equipment and systems. Maintains and repairs refrigeration units, such as ice machines, walk in freezer vaults, and residential refrigerators. May perform minor repairs on other items commensurate with abilities. Follows directions, administrative code, and life safety code standards in performance of duties.

Oversees and/or performs preventative maintenance on HVAC equipment and systems. Ensures life safety code standards are met. Implements the schedule for preventative maintenance work. Observes and performs periodic inspections to ensure efficiency of refrigeration and heating systems. Checks performance of thermostats, humidistats, automatic controls, and pressure gauges. Adjusts valves and checks refrigerant levels. Cleans, services, oils, and adjusts equipment; tightens fittings; aligns and repacks pumps; replaces belts; and changes and cleans filters. Adjusts system settings for proper system operations. Tests refrigeration equipment for proper operation and performs refrigerant leak searches.

Assigns, prioritizes, and leads the work of others to ensure all HVAC-related tasks are completed as required. Designates and assigns work to other qualified to perform the work. Oversees the quality of work and assists as necessary assuring proper results. Reports any significant issues to the supervisor for handling.

Develops long-range plans for HVAC maintenance and upgrades in collaboration with the maintenance supervisor and other facility leadership. Uses data from system monitoring to plan maintenance and repair work. Makes recommendations to increase energy efficiency of HVAC systems. Presents to management and implements the plan(s) and/or recommendation(s) selected. Plans for, acquires, and maintains the required equipment.

Monitors environmental control systems, such as the Vista Control System to set and maintain indoor temperatures; setting start and stop times by sector and room within each building on campus. Uses this same system to trouble shoot equipment by checking the operational status of each system component of an HVAC unit such as condenser fans, air handling units, supply air temps, the operation of valves and dampers in ductwork, and chilled water lines. Analyzes the history of a system overtime to determine equipment problems and their probable causes and formulate possible fixes. Samples and monitors air quality, takes initiative to resolves issues, and reports issues beyond ability to supervisor for action.

Uses hand tools, power tools, and safety equipment as necessary. Properly cleans and stores tools and other equipment after each use. Performs minor repairs and preventative maintenance on tools as needed and reports major issues to the supervisor. Completes tool inventory as required. Trains other staff to use equipment and tools commensurate with skill and ability.

Maintains accurate records including records of repairs and gauge readings of temperatures, oil levels, and pressures. Accurately completes and maintains records on work orders using the designated electronic or hard-copy system. Oversees accurate completion of records by other staff.

Coordinates parts and material requirements. Communicates needs for equipment, parts, and materials to the designated person such as with the supply room or warehouse in accordance with designated processes and timeframes.

Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledgeable in the installation, repair, and maintenance of cooling, refrigeration, and heating equipment.

Knowledge of general principles and theory of pressure, vacuum, vaporization, heat conductions, and of safety regulations.

Knowledge of Life Safety Code standards

Knowledge of the adjustments, alterations, inspections, maintenance, repairs, and restorations of chilled water systems, direct exchange systems, refrigerated systems, heating systems to include boilers/steam systems, and automated controls.

Knowledge of boilers, building mechanical systems, electrical distribution systems, HVAC, refrigeration, and sanitation.

Technical knowledge concerning advanced Energy Management Systems (EMS) and electronic controls, or ability to gain that knowledge.

Skilled in diagnosing malfunctions with systems and coming up with the right solutions and equipment for the rectification of the malfunctions

Skill in maintaining proper heating, ventilation, and air conditioning levels.

Skill in the use of tools and test equipment used in the maintenance and repair of HVAC equipment.

Skill in preventive maintenance and inspections of air conditioning and heating systems, steam systems, supplies, tools, utility systems, and ventilation systems.

Skill in performing adjustments, alterations, inspections, maintenance, repairs, and restorations of buildings, boilers, equipment, heating systems, steam systems, supplies, tools, utility systems, and ventilation systems.

Ability to maintain accurate records.

Ability to read, understand, and apply a variety of inter-related instructions such as those found in guidelines, regulations, and policies.

Ability to interpret and work from drawings, schematics, or sketches.

Ability to work independently or with a team.

Ability to communicate effectively orally, and/or in writing, using electronic equipment, with other members of the maintenance team and/or other employees

Must be able to meet facility driver requirements.

Ability to speak and read English is preferred.

Ability to perform basic mathematical computations.

Ability to perform labor-intensive work, with most of the workday spent standing, bending, walking, lifting, and carrying 50-100 pounds, reaching overhead, and/or working in cramped spaces such as in ceilings

Ability to work in hot and/or cold conditions.

Ability to work harmoniously and productively with co-workers and residents.

Ability to lead the work of others and ability to teach/train others to safely use HVAC equipment and tools.

Ability to teach others basic HVAC skills commensurate with ability.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Must possess valid Texas driver's license or obtain it no later than 90 days after hire date. Applicants with an out-of-state driver's license must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure. Eligible driving record required based on HHSC Fleet Management policy.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Section 608 Technician Certification, Universal certification required.

R410A certification preferred, must get within 6 months of hire (at state expense)

Any North American Technician Excellence (NATE) or HVAC Excellence certifications are preferred.

Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technician license or Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor license is preferred.

HVAC Contractor License preferred.

Initial Screening Criteria:

Experience in HVAC work. Graduation from a standard senior high school or equivalent, supplemented by vocational or special training in the HVAC trade, is generally preferred. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.

At least two years of work experience as an HVAC mechanic or technician.

At least two years of work experience in commercial HVAC system, including diagnosing malfunctions, installations, and repairs.

At least two years of experience using HVAC tools and equipment.

At least two years of experience working from blueprints and/or sketches.

At least two years of experience maintaining proper ventilation and air conditioning levels.

One year of experience as a shift or team supervisor.

Associate degree program in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration preferred.

Additional Information:

Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct, List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE). Males between the ages of 18-25 must be registered with the Selective Service.

All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility. Waco Center for Youth applicants must be 21 years of age.

Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours.

Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthcare workers are considered to be at significant risk for acquiring or transmitting hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and influenza. All these diseases are vaccine preventable. As a result, state hospital policy requires employees be vaccinated according to their level of contact with individuals. In the event you choose to not be immunized for the influenza virus, you may be required to wear a mask and take other protective measures.

Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited tothose listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.

HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form

Telework Disclaimer:

This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.