Skilled HVAC Mechanic

Location: Des Plaines, IL Category: Staff Posted On: Thu Sep 18 2025 Job Description:

Basic Function and Responsibilities:

Under general supervision, utilize independent judgment to construct, alter, install and repair heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems, fire protection. Ability to respond to other building structures and/or systems including electrical, pipe fitting, building automation systems and other related areas of skilled maintenance technology. Exercise independent judgment based on job knowledge and training to complete tasks.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform routine preventative maintenance and repairs on heating, ventilating, refrigeration and air conditioning systems, pneumatic and digital controls, hot and chilled water distribution, variable volume systems, chillers, boilers, motors, pumps, air handling units, roof top units.
• Occasionally participate in the remodel, construction, renovation and renewal of campus buildings providing expert knowledge to produce most efficient technical results.
• Assist in the completion of new construction and design, specify, install and maintain equipment to produce desired end results.
• Assist in instructing and training unskilled employees in safe, effective methods of performing task in the assigned maintenance function.
• In collaboration with HVAC Chief, determine and evaluate safe and most economical solution of specific maintenance problems.
• Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies.
• Perform snow removal as backup in emergency situations and perform special work assignments or clean ups as directed.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
  
  
  

Supervision Received:

Functional Supervision is received from the HVAC Chief. Administrative Supervision received from the Director of Facilities

Supervision Exercised:

Functional Supervision is exercised over General Maintenance Personnel.

Job Requirements:

Qualifications and Working Conditions:

• Journeyman (Bachelor's Degree Equivalent) achievement in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning.
• 5-year experience in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration.
• Ability to perform routine preventative maintenance and repairs on commercial heating, ventilating, walk-in refrigerators/freezers and air conditioning systems, pneumatic and digital controls, hot and chilled water distribution, variable volume systems, chillers, boilers, motors, pumps, air handling units, roof top units.
• Ability to operate building automation system, pneumatic and digital controls, variable frequency drive controls.
• Ability to perform major component replacement and evaluation of complex system problems.
• Ability to read, interpret and follow mechanical blueprints, schematics, specifications and other technical documents related to the installation, maintenance, repair of HVAC systems.
• Ability to troubleshoot fire alarm and fire suppression systems.
• Ability to weld, solder, braze and connect supply lines, air ducts and vents, refrigeration piping and pumps.
• Ability to react quickly and to analyze known data or symptoms of a problem and arrive at a logical solution.
• Ability to use hand and power tools applicable to trade.
• Ability to document and track preventative maintenance activities.
• EPA 608 Certification preferred.
  
  
  

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

Position will require employees to have:

• The ability to stand, walk and move for extended periods of time (Often - 75% - 100%).
• The ability to detect dirt, dust, stains and marks. (Often 75% to 100%).
• The ability to bend, twist, stoop, kneel, crawl, push, pull, and reach in all directions (Often - 75% - 100%).
• The ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. (Often 75% - 100%).
• The ability to perform moderate to strenuous physical labor for extended periods of time. (Often 75% - 100%).
• The ability to set up and operate mechanical cleaning equipment (Occasional 50% to 75%).
• The ability to work at heights and the ability to ascend/descend ladders (Seldom - 0% - 25%).
  
  
  

Some shifts will require the use of radio communication. Employees on these shifts, using these devices, will be required to have the ability to hear and exchange information clearly.

Job duties may be performed in hot, dusty, dirty environments. Employees may be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and outside weather conditions.

Additional Information:

HOURS: Monday - Friday - 6:00 am - 2:30 pm

SALARY: The hourly salary of this position is $27.76 which equates to $55,942 annualized based on Oakton's summer hours schedule.

Oakton College is an equal opportunity employer and has a strong commitment to diversity. In that spirit, we seek a broad spectrum of candidates, including minorities, veterans, women and people with disabilities. EOE/AA/M/F/D/V

Oakton is committed to maintaining an environment free from harassment and discrimination for all and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex (gender), sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, and reprisal or any other protected status. Further, Oakton does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any educational, employment, or extracurricular activity.

Out-of-State Employment Defined:

Oakton College's primary location of operation is in the state of Illinois. An "out-of-state employee" is defined as an employee of Oakton College whose primary work location is outside of the state of Illinois. State taxes, employment tax, and worker's compensation provisions vary from state to state and require payroll compliance with these various rules.

Allowable States for Out-of-State Employment:

All employees must maintain their primary residence in Illinois, Indiana, or a reciprocal state with Illinois. Reciprocal states include Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Illinois has tax agreements with these reciprocal states. Employees may have their primary residence in Indiana since Indiana is adjacent to Illinois.