Residence Refrigeration and AC Mechanic

Housing and Conference Services (HCS) plays a vital role in supporting McMaster University’s mission to advance human and societal well‑being and its overarching vision of educating for capability. We are committed to delivering a distinctive living and learning environment that prioritizes community building, personal development, academic success, wellness, and inclusion. HCS provides a transformative residential experience for approximately 3,900 students, with a focus on key educational priorities.

HCS concurrently drives a positive McMaster experience for guests, alumni, staff, faculty, and students by providing accommodation and event coordination, which meet the highest standards of service excellence. HCS is a proud and significant ancillary contributor to the financial health of the University and the core academic and research mission of McMaster.

HCS is currently undergoing a period of significant expansion, increasing capacity by 66% over the next several years. Moving from 3,900 to 6,000 bed spaces across 15 buildings. This growth will diversify the housing portfolio beyond its traditional focus on first‑year undergraduate students to include upper‑year, graduate, and family housing, as well as a constantly evolving internal and external client base.

The department operates with an annual pre‑expansion budget of approximately $31 million and employs over 100 full‑time and 250 part‑time staff. HCS reports directly to both the Divisions of Student Affairs and Operations & Finance.

Monday to Friday, 7am – 3:30pm.

August 1, 2026. This job is in the Unifor Local 5555 Unit 5 Bargaining Unit. This is a continuing position with no designated end date.

• Grade 12 Diploma or equivalent.
• Current and valid Ontario Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic Certificate of Qualification (313A).
• Three years of related experience.
• Valid class G driver licence.
• Additional certifications are an asset.

• Perform duties of a Licensed Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic in Ontario with valid Proof of Certification (313A) and licensing in good standing, in compliance with current codes and regulations as required by the Certificate of Qualification and the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
• Perform skilled trade work for maintenance, repair and small renovations.
• Diagnose and resolve HVAC, mechanical and electrical system issues and provide technical advice for repairs.
• Adjust and align machinery and equipment according to manufacturer specifications in collaboration with a licensed millwright when required.
• Perform fabrication of metals and components such as aluminum, steel, and stainless steel, using a variety of techniques and equipment including but not limited to welding, bending, tapping, and cutting.

• Review and interpret construction documents including blueprints, wiring diagrams, and manufacturer’s installation manuals, plans, and specifications to determine work requirements and the sequence of repairs or installations.
• Utilize technical documents to complete assigned projects and update drawings to reflect any changes from work performed.
• Organize materials, tools and support staff in the shop and at the job site.
• Perform preventative maintenance work and assist with creating these schedules.
• Provide input to estimates for hours and materials as required by work order.
• Guide consultants, property managers and project managers to University buildings as assigned.
• Ensure work areas are left clean, safe and secure upon completion of tasks.
• Provide advice to clients and explain technical terms in non‑technical language.
• Manage assigned work orders from initiation to completion, documenting all required information in databases and ensuring proper closeout in accordance with departmental procedures.
• Operate a motor vehicle or golf cart for transportation on campus.
• Perform pre‑ and post‑work tasks such as preparing and securing the job site, transporting tools and equipment, and restoring the area upon completion.

Operate within established security and safety regulations,…