Technical Specialist I

University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Massachusetts Amherst is seeking a Technical Specialist I to install, maintain, and repair mechanical systems, including HVAC, pumps, and air handling components in a Facilities Management setting. The role emphasizes preventive maintenance, repairs, and timely response to routine and emergency calls on site in Amherst.

The ideal candidate has hands-on trade experience, can read blueprints, works safely, and collaborates with others to ensure reliable building operations.

Qualifications

• Three years of HVAC, pumps, and compressor trade experience or an equivalent certificate/diploma with substitution options.
• Valid Massachusetts Class D Driver's License; Class B or CDL may be required depending on assignment.
• Knowledge of HVAC, pumps, and compressor principles and repair methods.
• Ability to read plans, blueprints, and drawings and estimate labor/time.
• Ability to lift heavy objects and work in confined spaces; safety conscious.

Responsibilities

• Repair and maintain HVAC systems, pumps, and compressor equipment.
• Perform preventive maintenance and repairs; replace belts, filters, lubricate motors.
• Carry out minor plumbing, heating and electrical work not requiring a license.
• Estimate material quantities and labor time for jobs.
• Operate vehicles on and off campus and respond to maintenance and emergency calls.
• Assist with refrigerant reclamation and promote excellent customer service.

Skills

HVAC knowledge

Pumps and compressors

Mechanical aptitude

Blueprints and drawings

Reading and following instructions

Safety practices

Teamwork

Education

Trade diploma/certificate in HVAC/pumps/compressors or HS with HVAC major

Tools

Hand tools

Ladders/scaffolding handling

Electrical tools

Job description

Title: Technical Specialist I

Executive Area: Administration and Finance

College/School/MBU: Facilities Management

Department: Building Maintenance

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full Time

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Job Summary

The Technician Specialist I installs, maintains, and repairs mechanical systems and system components, including but not limited to cooling towers, strainers, pumps, air handlers, exhaust systems, fume hoods, etc. Responsibilities include maintaining mechanical system, applying appropriate skills and methods as necessary in the areas of HVAC maintenance and repair, pump maintenance and repair, and air compressors and their related equipment. May assist other employees in the performance of their work.

Essential Functions

• Maintains buildings and systems utilizing skills, methods, and tools of the trade to repair HVAC systems, pumps, and compressors.
• Installs and performs preventive maintenance and repairs on heating, ventilating, air conditioning, pumps, and compressor equipment. Maintains, rebuilds, and repairs worn or defective parts, lubricating motors and bearings, changing belts and filters, replacing damaged insulation. Maintains cleanliness of mechanical rooms.
• Performs minor plumbing, heating and electrical-related work not requiring a license.
• Performs related duties such as replacing bearings, belts, couplers, drain views, lubricating, greasing, etc.
• Erects ladders and scaffolding as needed to perform assigned work.
• Interprets and/or sketches layouts of work; estimates length of time, quantities of materials and labor need to complete jobs.
• Operates motor vehicle, on and off campus, as assigned.
• Responds to routine maintenance and emergency calls.
• Assist with reclaiming of refrigerant units.
• Practices and promotes excellent customer service in the workplace and exhibits a clear commitment to the diverse needs of customers.

Other Functions

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Three (3) years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience and demonstrated competence in the HVAC, pumps, and compressor trades. Substitution: A diploma or certificate from a recognized trade, technical or vocational school, at the high school level or higher, with a major in HVAC, pumps or compressors may be substituted for a maximum of one (1) year of required experience.
• A valid Massachusetts Class D Driver's License.
• Based on assignment, a valid Class B License or a valid CDL License with appropriate endorsements may be required.
• Knowledge of the principles and techniques of the following construction and repair trades: HVAC, pumps, and compressors.
• Considerable knowledge of the tools, materials, methods, and standard practices used in HVAC, pump, and compressor repair.
• Working knowledge of the occupational hazards, precautions and safety practices and procedures in the HVAC, pumps, and compressor trades.
• General knowledge of plumbing and electrical principles and techniques.
• Mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity.
• Skill in the use of electric and non-electric hand tools.
• Ability to follow oral and written instruction and to read and interpret documents such as plans, blueprints, and drawings.
• Ability to make simple estimates of time and materials.
• Ability to work in confined spaces and to climb and work from ladders and scaffolds.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy objects.
• Physical stamina and endurance, ability to stand for prolonged periods of time.
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with others, to work as a team, and to interact with others with tact and respect.

Preferred Qualifications

• Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) certification.
• Skill and ability to reclaim refrigerant.

Additional Details

• Knowledge of the policies, procedures, specifications, standards, and guidelines governing assigned unit activities.
• Knowledge of the standards, methods, procedures, tools, and equipment of additional construction and repair trades.
• Ability to instruct, functionally supervise and direct others in their work.
• Based on assignment, confined space worker training and certification.
• Receives direct supervision from managers or classified employees of higher grade.
• This position is designated as on call and essential. This includes the obligation to work overtime, to return to work between scheduled shifts when directed, and to report to work during any delays, early departures, and closures. Incumbent is responsible for updating the service desk with current phone numbers.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in indoor and/or outdoor environments, and requires frequent lifting, bending, tool use or equipment use. May involve work in confined spaces or at heights.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Monday - Friday; 7:00AM - 3:00PM

Salary Information

Pay Grade: AFSCME Grade 14

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.