Master HVAC Tech

University of New Mexico; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

Pension plans

Paid time off

Professional development

Wellness programs

Community engagement

Job security

Job summary

The University of New Mexico invites applications for a Master HVAC Tech to lead a team of technicians, troubleshoot and repair complex commercial HVAC systems, and guide projects from planning through to execution. You will interpret blueprints, select materials, and ensure safety and environmental practices campus-wide.

As a liaison between management and technicians, you will mentor staff, document preventive maintenance, and strive for energy efficiency and reliability across multi‑zone

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with 6 years of related trades experience.
• Current NM Journeyman refrigeration license (JR), EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification, and one other NM HVAC license.
• Degrees above minimum education may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor HVAC technicians to troubleshoot and repair complex systems.
• Develop modification plans and estimate project costs for upgrades.
• Ensure preventive maintenance and document activities per regulatory requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Troubleshooting

HVAC systems

EMS knowledge

PLC knowledge

Education

Journeyman refrigeration license (JR)

EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification

NM HVAC license

Tools

Digital controls

Job description

Position Summary

Are you an experienced HVAC professional looking for a leadership role where you can showcase your expertise in commercial-grade systems? Do you thrive in troubleshooting and repairing complex HVAC systems and leading teams to success? Join the University of New Mexico Facility Services Building Maintenance Department as a Master HVAC Tech and play a critical role in maintaining and optimizing our campus's heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.

As a Master HVAC Tech, you will act as the liaison between department management and lower‑level HVAC technicians while leading the efforts to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair HVAC systems, including multi‑zone systems with advanced controls. You’ll also play a key role in system modifications, project planning, and leading a team of technicians to complete preventive and corrective work orders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Troubleshooting & Repair: Oversee the diagnosis and repair of commercial HVAC systems, multi‑zone heating, cooling systems, and digital control systems linked to a central energy management system.
• System Modifications & Planning: Develop HVAC system modification plans and estimate project costs for remodeling and upgrades.
• Preventive Maintenance: Create maintenance checklists and implement preventive maintenance activities for new and existing equipment to ensure optimal functionality.
• Blueprint & Schematic Interpretation: Review and interpret as‑built building blueprints to recommend system modifications and upgrades in accordance with regulations.
• Material Selection & Research: Research and select materials for HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance to ensure high‑quality standards.
• Team Leadership: Lead and mentor HVAC technicians, providing training, guidance, and support as they troubleshoot and repair complex systems.
• Safety & Environmental Practices: Ensure proper care in equipment use, promote workplace safety, and continuously improve environmental practices across all tasks.
• Documentation: Track and document preventive maintenance and repair activities to maintain accurate records of work performed.

Why Join Us

Working as a staff member at the University of New Mexico (UNM) offers a range of exciting benefits.

Benefits

1. Comprehensive Healthcare: Access to competitive health insurance plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
2. Retirement Plans: Pension and enrollment in a choice of additional retirement plans with generous employer contributions.
3. Paid Time Off: Generous annual vacation leave (up to 168 hours per year), sick leave (up to 96 hours per year), and 11 paid holidays to support work‑life balance.
4. Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, career advancement, and tuition remission for employees and dependents.
5. Wellness Programs: Access to wellness programs, fitness facilities, and resources promoting employee health and well‑being.
6. Community Engagement: Involvement in a vibrant campus community with diverse cultural and recreational activities.
7. Job Security: Stable employment with competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement within our respected flagship institution of New Mexico.

Conditions of Employment

• Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
• Must pass a pre‑employment criminal background check.
• Successful candidate must submit to post‑offer, pre‑employment physical examination and medical history check.
• Must maintain certification status.
• All regular, non‑temporary positions assigned to this classification are represented by a labor union and subject to the terms and conditions of the CWA Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; at least 6 years of trades experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
• Possession of a current New Mexico Journeyman's refrigeration license (JR), an EPA Universal Refrigerant Recovery Certification, and one other current HVAC related New Mexico license.
• Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year‑for‑year basis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience: Additional experience with large‑scale commercial HVAC systems, including systems up to 15 tons capacity; proven track record with low‑pressure steam heat exchangers, hot and cold deck systems, and pneumatic and digital controls.
• Technical Skills: Advanced knowledge of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and their application in HVAC systems; expertise in energy management systems (EMS) and central energy management and control systems.
• Problem‑Solving: Demonstrated ability to diagnose and resolve complex HVAC issues effectively and efficiently; proficiency in HVAC installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance, including the use of hand and power tools; ability to handle computer‑based monitoring and control systems.
• Leadership: Experience in leading or training HVAC repair teams, with a focus on improving operational efficiency and system reliability.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical issues and solutions to non‑technical stakeholders.

Additional Information

This is a leadership role within the Building Maintenance department. As a Master HVAC Tech, you will oversee the repairs and maintenance of complex HVAC systems to ensure campus comfort and energy efficiency. You will mentor a team of technicians and contribute to the university's sustainability and operational goals.

If you're an experienced HVAC professional with a passion for leading teams and tackling complex technical challenges, we want to hear from you!

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.