HVAC Specialist I

The University of Central Florida Board of Trustees; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

The University Operations division at UCF is seeking an HVAC Specialist I to help maintain a safe, functioning campus environment. You will troubleshoot HVAC issues, perform maintenance, and respond to service requests from faculty, staff, and students.

On-call duties and cross-training are part of the role. The ideal candidate has a HVAC apprenticeship or equivalent, EPA certification, and hands-on experience with chilled and hot water systems, electrical and plumbing components.

Qualifications

• Completion of an approved apprenticeship program in heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning; or a high school diploma and 2 years of relevant experience.
• EPA Certification or training in HVAC maintenance practices.
• Practical experience in checking refrigerant charges and pressures, and safe handling/disposal of refrigerants.
• Skilled in repairs on HVAC components including air systems, compressors, and controls.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office and IWMS or similar software.
• Basic English communication to work with customers and operate electronic equipment.

Responsibilities

• Perform corrective repairs to restore HVAC/refrigeration system functionality.
• Install, maintain, test, and calibrate HVAC components across campus.
• Conduct preventive and predictive maintenance to prevent failures.
• Complete PM-related repairs identified during inspections.
• Assist central shops, contractors, and campus departments as needed.
• Document labor hours, parts used, and job status updates.

Skills

Hands-on maintenance

EPA Certification

Refrigerant checks & disposal

HVAC components repair

MS Office

IWMS familiarity

English communication

Working in extreme environments

Education

HVAC apprenticeship or equivalent

High school diploma + 2 years related experience

Tools

IWMS

Microsoft Office

Job description

University Operations:

The University Operations division at UCF is committed to creating a supportive and welcoming environment for our faculty, staff, students, and the broader community. We take pride in delivering exceptional service, sharing our expertise, and upholding the highest standards to ensure a world-class campus experience.

Visit our website or follow us on Facebook and Instagram to learn more.

The Opportunity :

The Utilities and Engineering Services at University Operations is seeking to hire an HVAC Specialist I to help maintain a safe, functional, clean, and efficient living and learning environment on campus. In this role, you will be responsible for troubleshooting HVAC issues, providing maintenance services, and responding to service requests from customers and staff. This position requires prompt response to emergencies and unexpected situations, with rotating assignments to support departmental needs and foster cross-training. The ideal candidate will have foundational skills in maintenance, repair, and replacement of building systems, including chilled and hot water pumps, electrical, and plumbing systems. On-call responsibilities will be assigned by your supervisor.

Responsibilities:

• Perform corrective repairs in response to customer‑reported issues to restore functionality of HVAC and refrigeration systems.
• Install, maintain, test, and calibrate refrigeration and HVAC components across campus.
• Conduct scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) and predictive maintenance (PDM) to identify and prevent equipment failures.
• Complete PM‑related repairs for defects discovered during routine inspections.
• Assist central shops, contractors, other zones, and campus departments with support work as needed.
• Perform routine and project‑based work, including tasks related to facility improvements or campus upgrades.
• Complete work orders accurately and promptly, documenting labor hours, parts used, trade notes, and job status updates.
• Report maintenance, health, or sanitation deficiencies and follow all university, local, state, and federal guidelines.
• Maintain inventory control, secure equipment/materials, and participate in all required safety training.
• Collaborate with campus partners to support departmental and university operational needs.
• Assist other Facilities Operations zones during emergencies, staffing shortages, or special circumstances.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications :

• Completion of an approved apprenticeship program in heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning; or a high school diploma and 2 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219 .

Preferred Qualifications :

• 2+ years of hands‑on experience performing preventative and predictive maintenance on HVAC systems.
• EPA Certification or training in HVAC maintenance practices.
• Practical experience in checking refrigerant charges and pressures, as well as handling and disposing of refrigerants safely.
• Skilled in conducting repairs on a wide range of HVAC components, including air systems, compressors, and controls.
• Familiarity with various computer programs, including Microsoft Office and the Integrated Work Management System (IWMS) or similar software.
• Basic communication skills in English to work effectively with customers and operate electronic equipment.
• Ability to work in extreme environments and collaborate with individuals from varied backgrounds and experiences.

Health Assessment Required:

UCF policy requires completion and passing of a physical exam for this position.

Special Instructions to the Applicants:

The anticipated hourly rate range for this position is $23.33 - $31.21. The final hourly rate will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and internal equity considerations.

UCF is seeking to fill multiple roles for the HVAC Specialist I. Candidates for this job posting will be considered for additional vacancies in this department.

All applicants must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position, and the university cannot accommodate H‑1B transfers or employment-based visa processing for individuals currently sponsored by another employer.

May be required to participate in respiratory, medical examination and training in use of respirators. This position will be operating in confined spaces and elevated areas.

If you are selected as the final candidate for an employment opportunity, both your position and salary will be significantly based upon the information that you have provided in your application for employment. We urge you to please take the time to complete the application in its entirety.

Depending on the assigned work location and schedule, a valid Class E driver's license may be required.

Please note that under this position title, the department is considering hiring for multiple work schedules. Specific sched