Service Retrofit Start Up Technician II

Modigent Company; El Cajon (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision

401(k) with company contributions

HSA options

Life insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Modigent is seeking a Service Retrofit Start Up Technician II to work on commercial HVAC systems, performing routine to moderately complex startups, repairs, and testing. You will mentor Level I technicians while advancing your own expertise across DX splits, RTUs, and related equipment.

This field-based role requires strong diagnostic skills, refrigerant handling, and safety awareness, with opportunities for career development and nationwide project involvement.

Qualifications

• Experience in commercial HVAC service, startup, retrofit, and maintenance.
• EPA Section 608 certification required; NATE or OSHA credentials are a plus.
• Ability to work independently and mentor junior technicians.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform preventive maintenance, inspections, basic startups, and repairs on DX split systems and rooftop units.
• Assist with installations/retrofits, brazing, component replacement, system charging, and testing.
• Lead startup/retrofit calls, communicate with customers, coordinate parts, and ensure follow-up.

Skills

Diagnostic troubleshooting

HVAC startup/commissioning

Refrigerant recovery/recharge

Brazing copper lines

Component replacement

Gauges and multimeters

Customer communication

Documentation/reporting

Team collaboration and safety

Mentoring Level I technicians

Education

High school diploma or GED

Trade school/apprenticeship preferred

EPA Section 608 certification (Type II/Universal)

NATE certification or OSHA 10/30 a plus

Tools

HVAC gauges

Recovery machines

Multimeters

HVAC test equipment

Job description

Location: El Cajon, CA

Job Id:4537

# of Openings:3

Position Overview

As a Service Retrofit Start Up Technician II, you'll work with greater independence in commercial HVAC retrofit and system startup, handling routine to moderately complex installations, repairs, functional testing, and commissioning of equipment in office buildings, hospitals, schools, retail spaces, and industrial facilities. Building on entry-level experience, you'll perform basic system startups, refrigerant charging, component replacements, and troubleshooting while assisting senior technicians on advanced retrofits and beginning to mentor Level I team members. Our people-first culture supports your mid-level progression with hands-on training, certifications, mentorship, and clear advancement paths, enabling you to develop expertise and contribute to efficient, reliable HVAC system performance nationwide.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Independently perform preventive maintenance, inspections, basic startups, and repairs on DX split systems, rooftop units, above-ceiling replacements, and related HVAC equipment.
• Assist with and lead portions of installations/retrofits: brazing copper lines, component replacement, system charging, evacuation, and functional testing.
• Conduct system checks, pressure testing, leak detection, and basic balancing to verify performance and compliance.
• Lead standard startup/retrofit calls: assess on-site issues, communicate with customers about problems/solutions/timelines, coordinate parts/materials, execute work, and follow up for satisfaction.
• Document all work accurately (work orders, service reports, photos, startup checklists, recommendations) and maintain records for billing, warranty, and quality tracking.
• Assist senior technicians (Level III+) on advanced startups, large equipment, or complex retrofits; begin mentoring Level I technicians by demonstrating techniques and safety practices.
• Maintain clean, organized work areas, vehicles, and tools; adhere to all safety protocols, EPA regulations, and company standards.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None (mid-level individual contributor role; provides informal guidance and mentoring to Level I technicians under supervision of senior techs or leads).

Requirements/Qualifications

• Experience: 2-5 years of hands-on commercial HVAC service, startup, retrofit, and maintenance experience; demonstrated ability to work independently on routine to moderately complex tasks.
• Education: High school diploma or GED required; trade school, vocational training, apprenticeship, or equivalent preferred.
• Certifications: EPA Section 608 certification (Type II or Universal required); NATE certification, manufacturer training, OSHA 10/30-hour, or other relevant credentials a plus (company support for advancement).
• Physical Demands: Ability to regularly lift and carry up to 50 lbs, climb ladders/scaffolding/stairs, work in confined spaces or at heights, bend/kneel/crouch, reach overhead, and use diagnostic tools/equipment for extended periods; frequent standing, walking, manual dexterity, and physical stamina required.
• Work Environment/Safety: Primarily field-based in commercial/industrial settings (indoor/outdoor, rooftops, mechanical rooms, varying weather); exposure to noise, dust, heights, refrigerants, electrical hazards, and extreme temperatures; must strictly adhere to OSHA regulations, EPA protocols, conduct hazard identification, and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, harnesses, and steel-toed boots at all times - safety is our top priority and non-negotiable. This is a safety-sensitive position. Frequent regional travel within assigned market, on-call rotations, and flexible hours (including evenings/weekends) may be required as business needs dictate.

Required Skills

• Solid diagnostic/troubleshooting on commercial HVAC equipment (DX splits, RTUs, basic controls).
• Refrigerant recovery/recharge (EPA-compliant), brazing copper lines, component replacement, basic startup/commissioning.
• Proficiency with gauges, recovery machines, multimeters, and basic HVAC test equipment.
• Customer communication, problem-solving, and documentation/reporting skills.
• Team collaboration, safety awareness, and eagerness to learn advanced retrofits/mentoring.

Modigent is a national leader delivering next-generation infrastructure, technology, and energy solutions through our family of specialized brands in HVAC, plumbing, and controls systems. With a strong coast-to-coast presence and extensive service capabilities, we empower customers, communities, and our over 1,500 team members to thrive with sustainable, efficient commercial building services. As part of our team, you'll contribute to thoughtful innovation and our people-first culture rooted in service, collaboration, and integrity.

• Competitive compensation based on experience and level, with opportunities for performance incentives and tool allowances where applicable.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus HSA options with employer contributions in select plans, and company-paid basic life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance.
• Paid time off, holiday pay, and a 401(k) retirement savings plan to support your long-term financial well-being.
• Professional development through hands-on training, mentorship, apprenticeships, certifications, and clear career advancement paths across our nationwide operating companies.
• Inclusive, supportive culture that values diversity, dignity, respect, collaboration, integrity, and personal fulfillment—empowering you to build a rewarding, long-term career.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Modigent is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic.

Third-Party Recruitment Policy

Modigent and its wholly-owned operating companies will not pay any fees for candidate introductions, resumes, or placements from recruiters, employment agencies, or staffing firms without a prior, signed recruitment agreement specifically authorizing submission for a designated position. Unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions will not obligate Modigent to any payment, and we reserve the right to pursue and hire such candidates without liability. Agencies are requested to refrain from contacting hiring managers directly; all inquiries and submissions must go through our Talent Acquisition team.