Startup Technician - HVAC

Hardy Corporation; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Insurance packages

401(k) with employer match

Paid time off (PTO)

Paid holidays

Ongoing training

Job summary

Hardy Corporation in Birmingham, AL seeks an experienced Startup Technician to lead inspection, startup, testing, and commissioning support for commercial HVAC and plumbing systems. You will ensure equipment is installed per specifications, safety requirements, and codes before operation.

The ideal candidate has strong HVAC knowledge, excellent troubleshooting skills, and a commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of direct experience in startup, commissioning support, installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of commercial HVAC equipment and boiler systems.

Responsibilities

• Complete pre-functional inspections, startup checklists, and documentation for commercial HVAC systems.
• Verify installation meets project specs, manufacturer requirements, and codes prior to startup.
• Perform equipment startup, testing, adjustment, and verification of system operation.
• Read and interpret submittals, blueprints, specifications, wiring diagrams, and sequences of operation.
• Verify field-installed devices, controls, sensors, and accessories are properly installed and operational before startup.
• Review installation and operation manuals to ensure equipment is configured per manufacturer recommendations.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, control, and operational issues identified during startup and warranty periods.
• Read and understand low- and high-voltage diagrams.
• Assist with system balancing and performance verification.

Skills

Communication

Adaptability

Physical stamina

Lifting 25 lbs

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Documentation

Continuous learning

Tools

Microsoft Office

Electronic field documentation

Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Startup Technician to join our team. The Startup Technician is responsible for the inspection, startup, testing, troubleshooting, and commissioning support of commercial HVAC and plumbing systems. This role ensures equipment is installed according to project specifications, manufacturer recommendations, safety requirements, and applicable codes before being placed into operation.

The ideal candidate is a team-oriented professional with strong technical knowledge of commercial HVAC systems, excellent troubleshooting skills, and a commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Core Values

We are looking for individuals who demonstrate the following core values:

• Trustworthy: Acts with integrity, honesty, and professionalism.
• Positive Work Ethic: Consistently demonstrates initiative, accountability, and dedication to quality workmanship.
• Team Player: Collaborates effectively with coworkers, supervisors, customers, and project partners.

Essential Responsibilities

HVAC Startup & Commissioning

• Complete pre-functional inspections, startup checklists, and documentation for commercial HVAC systems.
• Verify equipment installation meets project specifications, manufacturer requirements, and applicable codes prior to startup.
• Perform equipment startup, testing, adjustment, and verification of system operation.
• Read and interpret submittals, blueprints, specifications, wiring diagrams, and sequences of operation.
• Verify all field-installed devices, controls, sensors, and accessories are properly installed and operational before startup.
• Review installation and operation manuals to ensure all equipment is configured and operated according to manufacturer recommendations.

Troubleshooting & Service Support

• Perform startup-related installation, troubleshooting, service, and repair of refrigeration systems.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, control, and operational issues identified during startup and warranty periods.
• Read and understand both low-voltage control wiring and high-voltage electrical diagrams.
• Assist with system balancing, operational testing, and performance verification.

Project Coordination

• Coordinate with project managers, field supervisors, controls contractors, manufacturers, and commissioning agents throughout the startup process.
• Maintain accurate startup reports, deficiency reports, service documentation, and commissioning records.
• Partner with commissioning providers to perform required testing and complete project documentation.
• Communicate equipment deficiencies, installation concerns, and corrective action recommendations to project teams.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
• Maintain a safe work environment and immediately report safety concerns.
• Properly utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ensure all work is completed in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of direct experience in startup, commissioning support, installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of commercial HVAC equipment and boiler systems.
• Intermediate proficiency with computers, iPads, Microsoft Office applications, and electronic field documentation systems.
• Working knowledge of commercial air distribution systems, including:
  • Variable Air Volume (VAV) Systems
  • Double Duct Systems
  • Air Handling Systems
  • Other commercial HVAC distribution methods
• Willingness and ability to travel as project requirements dictate.
• Understanding of building controls, sequences of operation, and system integration.
• Experience with packaged rooftop units up to 90 tons.
• Experience with data room and critical environment equipment, including Liebert and Data Aire systems.
• Knowledge of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) installation and startup procedures is preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to receive and follow instructions from supervisors and communicate effectively with coworkers, contractors, and customers.
• Ability to adapt to changing project demands and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Capable of prolonged periods of standing, walking, lifting, reaching, bending, climbing, and working in varying jobsite conditions.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 25 pounds.
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on quality, safety, and compliance with OSHA regulations.
• Ability to identify and resolve mechanical and operational issues.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Desire to continuously learn and stay current with industry technologies, equipment, and best practices.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds regularly and more with assistance when required.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, kneel, crouch, bend, and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to travel to project sites as needed.

Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package including:

• Competitive Wages
• Employer-Contributed Insurance Packages
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Match
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Ongoing Training and Professional Development Opportunities