HVAC Mechanic Princeton University

  • Princeton University
  • Princeton, New Jersey
  • Full Time

Department HVAC
Category Building Trades and Technicians
Job Type Full-Time

Overview

The HVAC Mechanic is a member of the Facilities Operations. Possessing journey level skills and experience, and with minimum oversight, the HVAC Mechanic is responsible for safely completing a full complement of journey level HVAC tasks, including, but not limited to the inspection, troubleshooting, and repair to a wide-range of campus HVAC equipment. The incumbent follows University safety rules and regulations at all times, along with established safety work procedures. The HVAC Shop members are represented by SEIU Local 175.


Responsibilities

  • Safely and effectively performs a wide range of journey-level installation, inspection, and repair tasks for commercial and institutional HVAC systems. Assemble, install and repair valves (steam and water), air handlers, pumps, fan coil units and exhaust fans.
  • Assemble and install valves, fittings and pipes composed of metals such as steel, brass, copper and nonmetals.
  • Troubleshoots HVAC systems, evaluates solutions, and performs appropriate repairs. In emergency and urgent situations, takes immediate steps to contain the problem and to restore the system to good operating order.
  • Assemble and install valves, fittings and pipes composed of metals such as steel, brass, copper and nonmetals.
  • Ensures proper care in the safe use and maintenance of vehicles, tools and equipment necessary to perform all tasks.
  • Reads, understands and interprets construction and equipment related documents (such as drawings, manuals, and procedures).
  • Assist other trades personnel in more complex work projects.
  • Work independently off written and electronic work orders from a CMMS System and accept responsibility for work assignments. Documents records of maintenance activity in an automated work order system (Maximo).
  • Performs other duties as assigned including overtime, after hours, special events and emergency call in work.
  • Follows the department's customer service standards.
  • Communicates clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Performs daily tasks safely and follow safe work practices.
  • Responds to after hour and emergency campus call-ins as needed.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Possess a minimum of three years' experience as a journey level HVAC mechanic (beyond apprenticeship or other equivalent training).
  • Must be a High School graduate or possess a GED along with related education in the installation, troubleshooting and repairs of HVAC Systems.
  • Possess solid knowledge of steam and chilled water systems, and must be able to work on both high- and low-pressure steam systems.
  • Possess a strong understanding of safe work practices.
  • Able to work both independently and in a team environment.
  • Must be able to follow the department's customer service standards.
  • Possess experience working with various types piping systems, including black and copper.
  • Must have the ability to understand drawings and service manuals for all equipment serviced.
  • Possess good knowledge of air handling systems, hot water and chilled water pumps.
  • Must possess computer literacy and have the ability to achieve competency using applicable campus software systems.
  • Be able to learn computer basics and work with the departments CMMS Software System.
  • Must be available for after hours and emergency call back work.
  • Possess the ability to work well with others, and effectively interact with customers and co-workers in all levels of the organization.
  • Assemble and install valves, fittings and pipes composed of metals such as steel, brass, copper and nonmetals.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Must be able to meet the physical requirements listed below.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certifications in one or more of the following disciplines:
    • Welding and use of an Oxy-Acetylene torch
    • EPA Universal Refrigerant License
    • HVAC Certifications (ASHRAE or others)

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The following tasks and skills that would be necessary for any person to fulfill while working in any of the job classifications within the HVAC Shop:

  • stand or walk up to 2 hours at one time, up to 8 hours per day;
  • sit for less than 2 hours during an 8-hour day;
  • operates motor vehicles or heavy equipment (e.g., forklift, high reach, cherry picker) occasionally (less than 33% of the workday)
  • lift or carry up to 35 pounds frequently (34 66% of the workday) and 100 pounds occasionally (less than 33% of the workday);
  • lift up to 100 pounds to waist height and up to 35 pounds in a range of motions from floor to overhead:
  • frequently use hands for simple grasping, fine manipulation, pushing or pulling (34 66% of the workday);
  • occasionally climb stairs or ladders, dig, use jack hammer or chipping tools, lie down, push or pull with forces up to 100 pounds (less than 33% of the work day);
  • frequently bend, squat, kneel, knee stand, lift overheard, reach overhead, push or pull with forces up to 35 pounds; (34 66% of the work day);
  • work outdoors in a variety of temperatures and environmental conditions;
  • Possess ability to work at heights, full range of body motions and physical agility, and ability to maintain balance.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Standard Weekly Hours
40.00

Eligible for Overtime
Yes

Benefits Eligible
Yes

Probationary Period
Per union contract

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)
Yes

Physical Capacity Exam Required
Yes

Valid Drivers License Required
Yes

Salary Range
$37.05 Minimum Hourly Rate

PI276143511

Job ID: 486913011
Originally Posted on: 7/26/2025

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