Lead HVAC Installer

Kelso Building Services; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Company vehicle

Fuel card

Tools provided

Paid time off & holidays

Ongoing training

Job summary

Kelso Building Services in Atlanta is seeking an experienced Lead HVAC Installer to manage installation crews on light commercial retrofit projects, own the on-site job, lay out systems, lead installers, keep work safe and code-compliant, and ensure proper startup and turnover.

This hands-on role requires 5+ years of HVAC install experience, 1+ year crew leadership, EPA 608 certification, and strong blueprint reading. Competitive pay up to $42/hour, plus benefits and ongoing training.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of HVAC installation experience (residential and light commercial).
• 1+ years leading a crew or as lead installer.
• EPA 608 Certification (Universal preferred).
• Strong knowledge of split systems, heat pumps, package units, and ductless systems.
• Proficient in brazing, ductwork fabrication, and refrigerant handling.
• Able to read blueprints and manufacturer installation instructions.
• Working knowledge of mechanical/building codes.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
• Able to lift 75+ lbs and work in attics, crawlspaces, rooftops, and outdoor conditions.

Responsibilities

• Lead installation crews on light commercial retrofit projects (rooftop units, split systems, heat pumps, furnaces, ductless mini-splits).
• Review plans, load calcs, and job scopes; lay out equipment, ductwork, and line sets before work begins.
• Install, set, and connect HVAC equipment, including refrigerant piping, condensate, gas piping, and low-voltage controls.
• Fabricate, modify, and install ductwork, transitions, and supply/return systems.
• Braze, pressure test, evacuate, and charge systems to manufacturer specifications.
• Perform startup, commissioning, and airflow checks, and verify proper system operation before turnover.
• Assign daily tasks, coach installers and apprentices, and hold the crew to quality and safety standards.
• Communicate with homeowners, builders, GCs, and supervisors on schedule, scope changes, and job status.
• Ensure work meets local codes and passes inspections.
• Keep job sites clean, organized, and safe; maintain tools, vehicles, and materials inventory.
• Complete job paperwork, material lists, and closeout documentation accurately and on time.

Skills

HVAC installation

Crew leadership

Blueprint reading

Code compliance

Safety

Education

EPA 608 Certification

Job description

About The Role

We're looking for an experienced Lead HVAC Installer coming from the residential or light commercial world to lead installation crews from start to finish on light commercial retrofit projects. You'll own the job on site: laying out systems, leading installers and helpers, keeping work clean and code-compliant, and making sure every system starts up right the first time. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys doing the work and takes pride in leading project efficiently.

We're looking for an experienced Lead HVAC Installer coming from the residential or light commercial world to lead installation crews from start to finish on light commercial retrofit projects. You'll own the job on site: laying out systems, leading installers and helpers, keeping work clean and code-compliant, and making sure every system starts up right the first time. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys doing the work and takes pride in leading project efficiently.

What You'll Do

• Lead installation crews on light commercial retrofit projects (rooftop units, split systems, heat pumps, furnaces, ductless mini-splits)
• Review plans, load calcs, and job scopes; lay out equipment, ductwork, and line sets before work begins
• Install, set, and connect HVAC equipment, including refrigerant piping, condensate, gas piping, and low-voltage controls
• Fabricate, modify, and install ductwork, transitions, and supply/return systems
• Braze, pressure test, evacuate, and charge systems to manufacturer specifications
• Perform startup, commissioning, and airflow checks, and verify proper system operation before turnover
• Assign daily tasks, coach installers and apprentices, and hold the crew to quality and safety standards
• Communicate with homeowners, builders, GCs, and supervisors on schedule, scope changes, and job status
• Ensure work meets local codes and passes inspections
• Keep job sites clean, organized, and safe; maintain tools, vehicles, and materials inventory
• Complete job paperwork, material lists, and closeout documentation accurately and on time

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of HVAC installation experience, including residential and light commercial work
• 1+ years leading a crew or serving as lead installer
• EPA 608 Certification (Universal preferred)
• Strong knowledge of split systems, heat pumps, package units, and ductless systems
• Proficient in brazing, ductwork fabrication, and refrigerant handling
• Able to read blueprints, mechanical drawings, and manufacturer installation instructions
• Working knowledge of mechanical and building codes
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Able to lift 75+ lbs and work in attics, crawlspaces, rooftops, and outdoor conditions

Preferred

• State or local HVAC license (as needed)
• NATE certification
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
• Experience with high-efficiency and variable-speed equipment
• Experience training apprentices or helpers

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive pay up to $42/hour based on experience.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Company vehicle, fuel card, and tools provided
• Ongoing training, certifications, and career advancement opportunities