Position Title
HVAC Mechanic (Sr HVAC EM Control Tech)
Job Summary
Perform technical work in the installation, operation and maintenance of the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) automated control systems and the maintenance of building automated Energy Management systems (EMS) at the University of South Carolina’s Columbia campus.
Working Hours
Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Minimum Required Education and Experience
- Requires job related accreditation from a technical school or an applicable skilled trades program and 3 or more years of job related experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of job related certification, training, education, and/or experience.
Required Certification, Licensure / Other Credentials
Preferred Qualifications
- High school diploma and 5 years’ experience in the operation and maintenance of HVAC mechanical and building control systems and associated peripheral devices.
- Experience in building mechanical systems and/or advanced refrigeration systems with knowledge and experience in a diversified maintenance environment.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Exceptional working knowledge of HVAC controls and EMS systems, knowledge of mechanical equipment, pumping and steam systems, chilled and hot water systems as well as a sound knowledge of air conditioning, heating, ventilation, electrical and other related trades.
- Must possess good leadership abilities, good interpersonal skills, and the ability to interface and work well with subordinates, peers, outside departments and other business professionals.
- Must have the ability to lead by example, solve problems, take initiative to provide services, develop strong customer relationships, measure cost and performance, keep accurate records, communicate effectively, develop proper procedures, define actions to resolve specific problem situations, communicate to supervisor and management; and prepare reports.
Job Duties
- Under limited supervision, maintains and follows a safe, productive, cost effective, and comprehensive planned and corrective maintenance program for constant and reliable operations relating to all facility building automated HVAC control systems by receiving work orders.
- Communicates with the supervisor, HVAC mechanics, and/or customers.
- Plans, inspects, verifies, communicates, and problem solves potential causes.
- Performs reactive and preventative maintenance on devices and equipment including pneumatic, electric, direct digital controls and associated EMS hardware.
- Performs non‑major mechanical repairs and maintenance for systems such as Central Air Handling units, Multi‑zone units, fan coils, VAV units, fume hoods, pumps, valves, research refrigeration units and other similar type equipment.
- Ensures that all facility DDC EMS related needs are performed per specifications, common practices, and safety requirements while exhibiting professionalism in conduct, appearance, and work practices to maximize energy savings and resolve customer comfort issues/complaints/service calls.
- Installs, operates and maintains the campus Direct Digital Control (DDC) Central Energy Management System (EMS) by monitoring the computer systems; running diagnostics; responding to system alarms.
- Reads control drawings for proper control operating parameters, sequencing, investigating, and repairing field control related equipment problems.
- Communicates with the supervisor and vendors.
- Applies continuous improvement principles for program development and enhancement.
- Implements HVAC control strategies using personal computers and laptops to optimize energy efficiency, reduce costs, and provide solutions to users on the technology‑related portion of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
- Assists with coordination of the Johnson Controls Metasys Energy Management System and HVAC systems by developing, implementing, analyzing, distributing, and filing various data reports.
- Uses data to determine proper functioning of equipment, investigates problem areas.
- Communicates effectively with campus customers, supervisors, Work Management Center, Area Maintenance personnel, and various contractors; tracks systems operation, maintenance history, and equipment calibrations; maintains knowledge of possible trends and trend affects.
- Answers basic trend analysis questions to ensure customer comfort and satisfaction, lower University energy consumption, and maintain accountability to University funds.
- Works with Capital Project Managers for major capital projects to ensure equipment being installed meets campus design standards and is in proper operating conditions prior to O&M project turnover.
- Provides informational instruction and/or training in the operation and maintenance of HVAC control systems and field devices such as thermostats, pressure and temperature sensors, flow meters, VAV volume regulators, Air Handling units, and related equipment by receiving work orders.
- Determines cause of mechanical or programming failure.
- Communicates with less experienced HVAC and other maintenance personnel; performs operational tasks to fulfill department mission and assist others in becoming more knowledgeable in Building Control systems and equipment to provide faster response time and better customer service.
- Performs administrative tasks to include maintaining and completing daily time sheets and records such as driving logs and work orders; assists supervisor with inventory control by requesting, receiving and monitoring maintenance supplies, materials, and tools from Consolidated Supplies and outside vendors following established procurement policies and procedures.
- Attends meetings and training events related to customer service, safety, and continuous improvement.
EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.