HVAC-Refrigeration Mechanic: Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Shift

Pay

The hiring rate for this position is $36.00 per hour or $30.00 per hour, depending on the candidate’s qualifications, including certifications and relevant work experience. The recruiter can provide the anticipated rate based on your specific qualifications during the selection process.

Benefits

The CIA offers a substantial benefits package that includes:

• Medical coverage at no cost to qualifying employees
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Short and long term disability insurance
• Retirement savings plan with high employer contributions
• Generous paid time off program
• Additional benefits adding significant value above the base rate

About the role

The heating, ventilation, air condition/refrigeration (HVAC/R) Mechanic operates under the direction of the HVAC/R Supervisor to inspect, maintain, repair and install all types of equipment pertaining to heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) Hyde Park campus. The mechanic serves as the liaison for the HVAC/R department during the daytime shift, planning and coordinating work priorities with the supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Install, perform preventative maintenance, repair, troubleshoot, and diagnose all heating, air‑conditioning, refrigeration, associated ventilation equipment and control systems.
• Interact professionally with campus stakeholders—including students, chefs, faculty, staff, outside vendors, and guests.
• Communicate safety information and other important concerns promptly to the appropriate parties.
• Coordinate work to minimize disruption to classes and campus activities.
• Read and follow blueprints, specifications, and manufacturer literature as directed.
• Perform preventive maintenance on campus HVAC/R systems and kitchen equipment.
• Complete work order paperwork electronically, providing detailed information on parts used, time taken, communications, and next steps.
• Follow all applicable codes and safety practices required by the CIA or governing agencies.
• Assist and oversee outside contractors, ensuring work is performed safely and professionally.
• Advise the supervisor of supply restocking needs and conduct periodic campus‑wide quality inspections, generating work orders as needed.
• Assist with special event set‑ups and break‑downs, which may occur after normal business hours, including nights and weekends.
• Perform non‑HVAC/R tasks such as creating work lists, cleaning the shop, and aiding other departments.
• Carry out any other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Formal trade school education in HVAC/R theory and practice, or a minimum of five (5) years of experience in the HVAC/R trade under a licensed contractor (experience may substitute for formal education).
• Minimum five (5) years’ experience in the HVAC/R trade under a licensed HVAC/R mechanic.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• EPA Section 608 Universal Refrigeration Certification.

Skills

• Ability to read and understand blueprints, wiring diagrams, and technical operating manuals.
• Proficiency with hand tools, electrical meters, refrigeration gauges, recovery equipment, and brazing torches.
• Experience with both low voltage (0‑24 V) and high voltage (208 V+/3‑phase) equipment.
• Physical capability to carry ladders and heavy supplies, maneuver in small spaces, and work safely from heights.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team under the direction of the HVAC/R Supervisor.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and conceptual skills.
• Ability to multitask and handle multiple priorities simultaneously.

Preferred Skills

• Experience servicing air‑cooled chillers.
• Experience installing and servicing water‑source heat pumps and geothermal systems.
• Knowledge of Building Automation/Management Controls (BAS/BMS) and related wiring, alarms, and variable frequency drives (VFD).
• Experience with low voltage controls and/or high voltage systems up to 480 V.
• Formal training in “hot work” safety.
• Certifications in mechanical lift operations (scissor and boom).
• Certifications for equipment service directly related to HVAC/R (e.g., boilers, air conditioners).
• OSHA 10 or higher certification.

Working Conditions

• Overtime may be required, including long hours,