HVAC Helper I

The HVAC Helper/Apprentice assists HVAC technicians with the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of industrial heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems. This position is intended for an individual who has an HVAC Apprentice License and is developing the skills necessary to become a qualified HVAC technician while working under the direction of experienced HVAC personnel.

The position supports HVAC systems throughout industrial facilities, including compressors, air handlers, chillers, cooling systems, ventilation equipment, pumps, ductwork, and associated controls.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist journeyman HVAC technicians with installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of HVAC systems.

• Perform routine preventive maintenance on HVAC equipment.

• Assist with servicing and maintaining:

• Air conditioning systems

• Heating systems

• Air handlers

• Chillers

• Cooling towers

• Compressors

• Pumps

• Exhaust and ventilation systems

• Ductwork

• Filters and belts

• Assist with refrigerant recovery, evacuation, charging, and leak detection under appropriate supervision and authorization.

• Assist with electrical troubleshooting of HVAC equipment, including motors, contactors, relays, thermostats, and controls.

• Use hand tools, power tools, meters, gauges, and other HVAC equipment safely.

• Assist with installation and replacement of piping, tubing, ductwork, insulation, valves, and HVAC components.

• Take temperature, pressure, and other equipment readings and report abnormal conditions.

• Assist with diagnosing equipment problems and identifying potential causes of failure.

• Perform equipment cleaning and general housekeeping around HVAC systems.

• Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in a clean and safe condition.

• Read and interpret basic drawings, equipment manuals, schematics, and work orders.

• Maintain accurate documentation of maintenance activities and equipment conditions.

• Work with journeyman technicians to develop HVAC troubleshooting and repair skills.

Industrial HVAC Systems

The HVAC Helper/Apprentice may assist with equipment and systems such as:

• Industrial air-conditioning systems
• Package units
• Split systems
• Chillers
• Cooling towers
• Air compressors and dryers
• Air handlers
• Heating systems
• Ventilation and exhaust systems
• Building automation and HVAC controls
• Pumps and circulating systems
• Process cooling systems

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all company, client, OSHA, and site-specific safety requirements.
• Participate in daily toolbox talks, pre-job meetings, and Job Safety Analysis (JSA) activities.
• Follow Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures before working on energized equipment.
• Properly use required PPE.
• Follow electrical safety, fall protection, confined-space, and hot-work requirements as applicable.
• Handle refrigerants and chemicals in accordance with applicable regulations and company procedures.
• Report unsafe conditions, equipment defects, incidents, and near misses immediately.
• Maintain good housekeeping and keep work areas free of hazards.

Apprentice License Responsibilities

• Maintain a valid HVAC Apprentice License as required by the applicable state or jurisdiction.
• Perform work within the scope permitted by the apprentice license and applicable regulations.
• Work under the required supervision of a qualified HVAC journeyman or licensed technician.
• Participate in on-the-job training and technical development.
• Maintain required apprenticeship training records and documentation.
• Progress toward additional HVAC certifications and licensing requirements.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Valid HVAC Apprentice License required.
• 1-3 years of HVAC experience preferred; industrial experience is a plus.
• HVAC technical school or apprenticeship program preferred.
• Basic understanding of mechanical, electrical, and refrigeration systems.
• Industrial, commercial, manufacturing, chemical, petrochemical, or power-generation experience preferred.

Preferred Certifications

• EPA Section 608 Certification preferred.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 preferred.
• CPR/First Aid preferred.
• Refrigerant handling certification preferred.
• Additional HVAC manufacturer or equipment certifications are a plus.

Required Skills

• Basic mechanical aptitude.
• Basic electrical troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to use hand and power tools.
• Ability to read basic electrical diagrams and mechanical drawings.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn and develop technical skills.
• Ability to work safely around operating industrial equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and work overhead for extended periods.
• Ability to climb ladders and access elevated equipment.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in confined spaces when required.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to wear required PPE, including hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, steel-toe boots, and FR clothing when required.

Brown & Root Industrial Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. BENEFITS: Brown and Root offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which include a 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, and flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.