OILER

Dept. of Homeless Services; New York (NY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Homeless Services (DHS) in New York City is recruiting two Oilers to perform routine lubrication and maintenance on HVAC systems across DHS facilities. You will inspect equipment, assist technicians, and ensure safe operation while maintaining accurate maintenance records.

Qualified candidates bring solid HVAC knowledge, strong mechanical skills, and the ability to work independently. The role emphasizes safety, accuracy, and responsiveness to HVAC emergencies within city

Qualifications

• Three years of full-time experience in lubrication, maintenance, and repair of mechanical equipment.
• 1.5 years of experience plus graduation from an approved trade/technical high school or internship.
• 1 year of experience plus an associate degree in mechanical technology.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine lubrication and maintenance on HVAC systems including motors, bearings, compressors, and fans.
• Inspect HVAC equipment to ensure proper operation and identify potential issues.
• Use lubricants and tools to maintain HVAC systems per specs and standards.
• Monitor and record data such as pressure and temperature readings.
• Assist HVAC technicians with repairs, installations, and troubleshooting.
• Replace/clean filters, belts and components to ensure performance.
• Ensure compliance with regulations regarding HVAC maintenance and safety.
• Maintain records of maintenance activities and equipment performance.
• Respond to HVAC emergencies and provide timely solutions.
• Stay up to date with latest HVAC maintenance practices and tools.

Skills

HVAC knowledge

Mechanical troubleshooting

Communication skills

Physical stamina

Driver's license

Education

Trade/technical high school or equivalent

Associate degree in mechanical technology

Approved internship program

Tools

Lubrication techniques and tools

Building automation systems

HVAC certification/training

Job description

IF YOU ARE HIRED PROVISIONALLY IN THE OILER TITLE, YOU MUST TAKE AND PASS THE CIVIL SERVICE EXAM WHEN IT BECOMES AVAILABLE TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT.

The New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) is the largest organization in the United States dedicated to preventing and addressing homelessness. In partnership with other City agencies and nonprofit organizations, DHS works to prevent homelessness before it begins, reduce street homelessness, provide temporary shelter, and connect individuals and families to stable housing all with a focus on accountability, empathy, and equity.

DHS is committed to continuous improvement and employs innovative strategies to deliver high-quality services that support a swift transition from shelter to self-sufficiency. The agency manages hundreds of facilities and operates with a large team as well as a several billion-dollar budget to meet the diverse needs of New Yorkers experiencing homelessness.

The Facilities and Logistics Division (F&L) is responsible for providing both direct and indirect maintenance and repair services to City owned and operated facilities using in-house skilled trade-workers, maintenance contracts and purchasing operation. F&L is responsible for monitoring DHS shelters as it relates to the maintenance of building systems. F&L guides shelter staff on ways to improve facility conditions, and the goal of this unit is to ensure funds are being spent on preventive and general maintenance to avoid premature failure of building systems.

The Department of Homeless Services (DHS) is recruiting for two (2) Oilers who will:

• Perform routine lubrication and maintenance on HVAC systems including motors, bearings, compressors, and fans.
• Inspect HVAC equipment to ensure proper operation and identify potential issues.
• Use appropriate lubricants and tools to maintain HVAC systems according to manufacturer specifications and industry standards.
• Monitor and record operational data such as pressure and temperature readings.
• Assist HVAC technicians with repairs, installations, and troubleshooting as needed.
• Replace or clean filters, belts, and other components to ensure optimal system performance.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations regarding HVAC maintenance and safety.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities and equipment performance.
• Respond to HVAC emergencies and provide timely and effective solutions.
• Stay up to date with the latest HVAC maintenance practices, tools, and technologies.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Three years of full-time satisfactory experience in the lubrication, maintenance, and repair of mechanical equipment; or
2. One and one-half years of experience as described in “1” above plus graduation from an approved trade, technical, or vocational high school or completion of an approved internship program; or
3. One year of experience as described in “1” above plus an associate degree from an accredited school in mechanical technology.

Preferred Skills

• Strong knowledge of HVAC systems and equipment.
• Experience with lubrication techniques and tools.
• Excellent mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Good physical condition and ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and working in confined spaces.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• HVAC certification or relevant technical training.
• Experience with building automation systems and controls.
• Previous experience in both residential and commercial HVAC environments.

55a Program

This position is also open to qualified persons with a disability who are eligible for the 55‑a Program. Please indicate at the top of your resume and cover letter that you would like to be considered for the position through the 55‑a Program.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

As a prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website at https://studentaid.gov/pslf/.

Residency Requirement

New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. However, City Employees in certain titles who have worked for the City for 2 continuous years may also be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County. To determine if the residency requirement applies to you, please discuss with the agency representative at the time of interview.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity or pregnancy.