HVAC Technician

Core Responsibilities

• System Integration & Assembly: Install and connect critical components including compressors (often multi-stage), condensers, evaporator coils, and specialized refrigeration lines for environmental test chambers.
• Performance Testing & Validation: Set up and test prototype units under operational conditions to ensure they meet rigorous design specifications for temperature and humidity.
• Cascade Refrigeration Expertise: Maintain and repair complex cascade refrigeration systems capable of reaching extreme temperatures (e.g., -70°C to +180°C).
• Calibration & Controls: Calibrate sensors, conductivity meters, and PLC-based controllers to ensure chamber stability and accuracy.
• Leak Testing & Safety: Conduct pressure tests and use specialized instruments to detect leaks in high-pressure or vacuum refrigeration circuits.
• Data Documentation: Record detailed test procedures and numerical/graphical results to help engineers finalize product definitions.
• Engineering Collaboration: Work directly with manufacturing engineers to transfer new chamber designs from R&D to the production line. 

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Technical Proficiency: Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and the refrigeration cycle as applied to industrial equipment.
• Certifications: Mandatory EPA Section 608 Certification for handling refrigerants; NATE or specialized industrial refrigeration certifications (e.g., RSES) are preferred.
• Electrical Knowledge: Ability to read and interpret complex wiring diagrams and troubleshoot PLC/computer-based control systems.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Proficient in brazing, soldering, and using precision hand/power tools to assemble specialized piping and ductwork.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to detect minor irregularities in data or system performance that could indicate chamber failure. 

Work Environment

• Primarily lab-based or on the manufacturing floor, though some roles may involve field visits to commission systems at client sites.
• Physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs, working in confined spaces, and exposure to extreme temperature ranges