Job Description
Supervision of HVAC Technicians:
- Manage a team of HVAC technicians, providing guidance, training, and support for their tasks.
- Assign and schedule work orders for installations, repairs, and maintenance of air conditioning systems.
- Ensure that technicians adhere to safety protocols, regulations, and company standards.
- Monitor team performance and provide constructive feedback or training as needed.
Installation and Maintenance:
- Oversee the installation of new air conditioning units, systems, and related components, including ductwork, condensers, evaporators, and cooling towers.
- Supervise and perform routine maintenance tasks such as filter changes, coil cleaning, refrigerant recharging, and system calibration.
- Ensure that AC systems are properly maintained to operate efficiently, reducing energy consumption and preventing breakdowns.
Troubleshooting and Repairs:
- Supervise the diagnostic and repair work on malfunctioning AC systems, such as issues with compressors, refrigerant leaks, electrical problems, or airflow blockages.
- Ensure that repairs are conducted promptly, ensuring minimum downtime for systems in commercial or industrial settings.
- Troubleshoot complex problems in larger HVAC systems, which may involve working with other mechanical, electrical, or plumbing systems.
Safety and Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensure that all work is done in compliance with local and national safety regulations, building codes, and environmental standards.
- Oversee the proper handling, storage, and disposal of refrigerants and other hazardous materials.
- Ensure that all systems are functioning safely and efficiently, preventing safety hazards such as refrigerant leaks, electrical failures, or overheating.
Energy Efficiency and System Optimization:
- Monitor the performance of air conditioning systems to ensure they are operating at optimal efficiency.
- Recommend upgrades, retrofits, or modifications to improve system efficiency, reduce energy consumption, or extend system life.
- Work on projects related to energy-saving technologies, such as high-efficiency AC units, variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems, or smart thermostats.
Team Management and Training:
- Provide training to new or existing technicians on the latest HVAC technologies, troubleshooting techniques, and safety procedures.
- Ensure that all technicians are up-to-date with certifications and licenses (e.g., EPA certification for handling refrigerants).
- Lead team meetings to discuss work orders, safety issues, and team performance.
Inventory and Equipment Management:
- Manage the inventory of parts, tools, and materials required for AC system maintenance and repairs.
- Ensure that necessary supplies are available for quick response to emergency repairs and scheduled maintenance.
- Order replacement parts and maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers.
Customer Interaction and Client Relations:
- If working in a client-facing role (e.g., in a facility management company), communicate with clients to discuss issues, upgrades, or maintenance schedules.
- Provide recommendations for new installations or system improvements based on client needs or facility requirements.
- Handle complaints or service issues and ensure customer satisfaction with the work completed.
Skills
Technical Expertise in HVAC Systems:
- Deep understanding of air conditioning systems, including central HVAC units, split systems, chillers, cooling towers, and refrigeration systems.
- Knowledge of system components such as compressors, evaporators, condensers, thermostats, ducting, refrigerants, and electrical systems.
Troubleshooting and Diagnostic Skills:
- Ability to quickly diagnose and repair issues with air conditioning systems, such as temperature inconsistencies, refrigerant leaks, or compressor failure.
- Familiarity with specialized diagnostic tools and equipment used to test system performance.
Knowledge of Codes and Standards:
- Familiarity with industry standards and regulations, including ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers) standards, EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) regulations for refrigerants, and local building codes.
- Understanding of energy-efficient HVAC design and the use of eco-friendly refrigerants.
Leadership and Management Skills:
- Ability to lead, motivate, and supervise a team of technicians.
- Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects, schedules, and tasks.
- Ability to prioritize work, handle emergencies, and meet deadlines.
Communication Skills:
- Ability to communicate clearly with team members, clients, and management.
- Skilled in providing instructions, training, and technical support to team members.
- Ability to explain complex HVAC concepts and issues to non-technical clients.
Safety and Environmental Awareness:
- Strong focus on safety protocols, including working with hazardous materials such as refrigerants, electrical systems, and high-pressure equipment.
- Knowledge of safe practices for handling refrigerants (including obtaining and maintaining EPA Section 608 certification), working in confined spaces, and using personal protective equipment (PPE).
Project Management:
- Experience in managing AC installation or upgrade projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating resources.
- Ability to oversee multiple jobs or projects simultaneously while maintaining high quality and customer satisfaction.