Refrigeration Control Engineer – Level 1

APPA; New York (NY); On-site; USD 59,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia University’s Manhattanville Campus seeks a Refrigeration Control Engineer – Level 1 to join its Facilities team. This hands-on role focuses on maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, inspection, and operation of refrigeration, HVAC, control, and related equipment.

The ideal candidate has strong mechanical troubleshooting skills, the ability to work independently, and knowledge of BMS and electrical systems.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• NYC Refrigeration Engineer’s License required.
• Five years of HVAC&R mechanic experience.
• Two years with automated control systems.
• Knowledge of refrigeration systems, components, and BMS.
• Strong communication and ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Perform preventive maintenance and repairs on HVAC, refrigeration, cooling towers, heat exchangers, and related equipment.
• Service refrigeration systems, compressors, pumps, valves, air-conditioning, and ventilation equipment.
• Diagnose malfunctions and perform corrective actions.
• Conduct equipment rounds and respond to maintenance calls campus-wide.
• Startups/shutdowns and stabilization of equipment as needed.
• Maintain refrigerant records and compliance with requirements.
• Guide/assist technicians in troubleshooting and maintenance tasks.
• Complete work orders and CMMS entries for documentation.
• Collaborate with other facilities teams to resolve issues.

Skills

HVAC&R mechanic

Troubleshooting

Independent work

Teamwork

BMS knowledge

Education

High School Diploma or GED

NYC Refrigeration Engineer’s License

Tools

CMMS

Job description

Refrigeration Control Engineer – Level 1

Columbia University’s Manhattanville Campus is seeking an experienced Refrigeration Control Engineer – Level 1 to join its Facilities team. This is a hands‑on HVAC&R position responsible for the maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, inspection, and operation of refrigeration, HVAC, control, and related mechanical equipment.

The ideal candidate is an experienced HVAC&R mechanic or technician with strong mechanical troubleshooting and repair skills who can work independently with limited supervision. The position also requires working knowledge of refrigeration controls, electrical systems, building management systems, and related facility equipment.

Responsibilities:

• Perform hands‑on preventive and proactive maintenance, inspections, troubleshooting, and repair of HVAC, refrigeration, cooling towers, heat exchangers, and related equipment.
• Maintain and service refrigeration systems and associated equipment, including compressors, pumps, valves, air‑conditioning, and ventilation equipment.
• Diagnose equipment, control, and operational malfunctions and perform corrective action.
• Perform equipment rounds and respond to HVAC, refrigeration, and related maintenance calls throughout the campus.
• Conduct equipment startups, shutdowns, and stabilization as necessary.
• Maintain appropriate refrigerant records and comply with applicable requirements.
• Assist and/or direct mechanics and technicians in troubleshooting, repairing, maintaining, testing, and inspecting equipment.
• Complete work orders, maintenance records, operating logs, and required documentation through the CMMS.
• Work with other facilities disciplines and management to resolve operational and maintenance issues.
• Respond to emergency conditions and perform other related facilities duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED
• NYC Refrigeration Engineer’s License
• Five (5) years of experience as an HVAC&R mechanic
• Two (2) years of experience with automated control systems
• Knowledge of refrigeration system maintenance, repair, and operations
• Working knowledge of HVAC&R controls and Building Management Systems (BMS)
• Working knowledge of electrical motors, controls, switches, fusing, wiring, and basic electrical troubleshooting
• Ability to safely operate hand tools, power tools, and specialized HVAC/chiller equipment
• Strong communication and teamwork skills and ability to work independently

This is a TWU Local 241 union position. Salary range is $51.50 per hour/ Sunday–Thursday, 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Columbia University is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran and is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.