Technical Specialist I (HVAC)

Job no: 527726

Work type: Staff Full Time

Location: UMass Amherst

Department: Building Maintenance

Union: AFSCME

Categories: Facilities/Grounds, AFSCME A

About UMass Amherst

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued—and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.

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 (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• 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 Class D Driver's License.
• 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 (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

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

Physical Demands/Working Conditions

• 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 balance, pull, push, stand, bend, climb, drive, reach, sit, twist, and perform repetitive movements.
  
  

Additional Details

• This position is designated as 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.
  
  

Additional Qualifications Acquired On The Job

• 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.
  
  

Work Schedule

• M-F; 7AM-3PM.
• 40 hours per week.
  
  

Salary Information

AFSCME Non-Exempt Grade 14.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.

Advertised: Jul 24 2025 Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: Oct 24 2025 Eastern Daylight Time

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