Auxiliary HVAC Mechanic; On-site

Auxiliary HVAC Mechanic (On‑site)

University of California, Merced

Apply for this on‑site position in the Auxiliaries portfolio. The role requires skilled journeyman level work focused on heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) systems, including installation, modification, servicing, troubleshooting and repair of boilers, compressors, evaporators, condensers, motors, variable frequency drives, chemical fume hoods, glove boxes, kitchen equipment, electrical water pumps, refrigerators, freezers and ice machines.

Hourly range: $46.91/hr (unit pay may vary based on qualifications, experience, and skill level). The range is an estimate; the final offer reflects candidate qualifications and experience.

The University of California, Merced is the newest campus in the system and a designated R1 research university. With about 9,100 undergraduate and graduate students, UC Merced offers bachelor, master and doctoral programs, strong research partnerships, and a growing community in the San Joaquin Valley.

Perform skilled work with HVACR systems, including hermetic refrigeration units, hot water and steam boilers, and associated controls. Experience with Direct Digital Controls and EMCS Systems is required. Tasks include installing, replacing, adjusting, and repairing pressure regulators, compressors, evaporators, condensers, motors, VFDs, fume hoods, glove boxes, kitchen equipment, electrical water pumps, refrigerators, freezers, ice machines, and associated piping and electrical connections.

Read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and plumbing schematics and drawings; prepare estimates; plan and manage projects within allotted budgets; instruct and guide semi‑skilled or unskilled assistants. Work may include emergency repair situations and may require variable hours, weekends, holidays, on‑call service, and use of university vehicles, including golf carts.

• Operate, maintain, and repair HVAC equipment and campus utility systems with manual and computer controls.
• Monitor safety systems associated with HVAC equipment and utility systems.
• Respond promptly to client requests and use university vehicles to transport tools and parts.
• Lead diagnostic tasks for complex maintenance and repair activities.
• Operate Direct Digital Controls, personal computers, and related software to identify problems and repair equipment.

• Perform testing and analysis of HVAC component systems.
• Maintain logs and reports required for testing.

• Attend safety and technical trainings.
• Provide training on operation and maintenance of HVAC systems under normal and emergency conditions.
• Attend vendor and professional training classes as assigned.

• Perform related projects, reports, records, and other clerical functions as assigned.
• Basic computer skills in email, CMMS, Word, Excel, and timekeeping.

• Manage safety requirements per Cal OSHA, UC policy, and applicable codes.
• Monitor gauges, meters, and automatic recording devices.
• Communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Assist other skilled trade workers with normal repairs and emergency repairs.

• High school diploma and/or equivalent certification/experience/training.
• Certificate of completion of a recognized apprenticeship, accredited trade school AND 5 or more years of progressively responsible related experience OR 9 or more years equivalent experience, training and education comparable to journeyman‑level craft status.
• EPA Universal Certification, Section 608 Clean Air Act.
• Driver’s License required.

• Demonstrated technical skills to operate HVAC‑R systems.
• Maintain, repair, replace, install, and alter HVAC‑R equipment and distribution systems.
• Inspects, tests, repairs, and services refrigeration, hot water, forced air heating and ventilation equipment.
• Knowledge of boilers, steam systems, chilled water systems, absorbers, chiller pumps and related equipment.
• Electrical skill to use basic measuring meters and understand AC/DC circuits.
• Ability to use test equipment: voltmeters, ammeters, ohmmeters, airflow meters, temperature and humidity…