Description:
South Jersey/Philadelphia Area
Salary Commensurate with Experience
Position Summary
The Senior Commercial HVAC Technician is a highly skilled, field-based professional responsible for the diagnosis, service, repair, commissioning, and optimization of complex commercial HVAC systems. This role requires advanced technical expertise, strong problem-solving skills, leadership in the field, and the ability to work independently while supporting operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
This position may serve as a technical lead on jobsites and acts as a mentor to junior technicians and apprentices.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
Technical & Trade Responsibilities
- Diagnose, repair, and maintain commercial HVAC systems, including:
- Rooftop Units (RTUs)
- Split systems
- Chillers (air-cooled and water-cooled)
- Boilers (hot water & steam)
- Cooling towers
- Make-up air units
- VAV systems
- Heat pumps and VRF/VRV systems
- Perform advanced troubleshooting of:
- Electrical systems (single and three-phase)
- Motors, VFDs, contactors, relays, and control boards
- Refrigeration systems, compressors, and metering devices
- Read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematics, and control sequences
- Commission new equipment and verify proper operation per manufacturer specifications
- Perform system balancing assistance and airflow diagnostics when required
Controls, Controls Interface & Automation
- Troubleshoot and adjust commercial HVAC controls, including:
- Building Automation Systems (BAS)
- Thermostats, sensors, and actuators
- Interface with controls contractors and building engineers
- Verify sequences of operation and proper system response
Preventive Maintenance & Compliance
- Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on commercial HVAC equipment
- Complete accurate service documentation, PM reports, and compliance checklists
- Identify and communicate equipment deficiencies and life-cycle replacement needs
- Ensure all work complies with:
- OSHA safety standards
- EPA regulations
- State and local mechanical codes
- Company safety policies and procedures
Customer Service & Communication
- Serve as a technical representative of the company on commercial job sites
- Communicate clearly with:
- Property managers
- Facility directors
- Building engineers
- General contractors
- Explain system issues, repair recommendations, and preventative strategies in a professional manner
- Provide detailed repair recommendations and estimates when applicable
Leadership & Mentorship
- Act as a field leader and technical resource for junior technicians and apprentices
- Provide on-the-job training and guidance
- Promote safe work practices and quality standards
- Support management with technical input on job planning and system evaluations
Administrative & Technology Responsibilities
- Accurately complete service tickets, work orders, and time entries using company systems
- Document refrigerant usage and compliance logs
- Maintain truck stock, tools, and equipment in good working order
- Communicate job status, delays, and material needs proactively
Requirements:
Required Skills/Abilities:
Required Qualifications
Education & Certifications
- High school diploma or GED required
- EPA Universal Certification required
- OSHA-10 (minimum) preferred; OSHA-30 strongly preferred
- State HVAC license or equivalent (where required by jurisdiction)
Experience
- 7+ years of commercial HVAC service experience
- Demonstrated experience working independently on complex commercial systems
- Experience mentoring or leading other technicians preferred
Technical Skills
- Advanced electrical and mechanical troubleshooting
- Strong refrigeration diagnostics skills
- Proficiency with test instruments (meters, gauges, combustion analyzers, etc.)
- Ability to read and interpret technical documentation and control diagrams
Physical Demands
- Ability to lift up to 75 lbs
- Ability to climb ladders, work on rooftops, and access confined spaces
- Ability to stand, kneel, crouch, and work in varying weather conditions
- Must be able to wear required PPE
Work Environment
- Commercial and industrial facilities
- Rooftops, mechanical rooms, and occupied buildings
- Exposure to weather extremes, electrical hazards, moving mechanical parts, and noise
Competencies & Attributes
- Strong problem-solving and diagnostic ability
- High attention to detail and quality workmanship
- Professional communication and customer-focused mindset
- Leadership presence and team-oriented attitude
- Reliable, punctual, and safety-driven