HVAC Specialist

About the role

Responsible for executing advanced, discipline-specific tasks necessary to maintain and optimize the operation of Universal Orlando Facilities. This includes comprehensive diagnostics, repair, and maintenance of industrial, commercial, and non-commercial HVAC and refrigeration systems. Duties encompass troubleshooting complex mechanical and control issues, performing precision calibrations, conducting system performance assessments, and ensuring compliance with all relevant safety and operational standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform complex servicing on heating, air conditioning, ventilation, supply/exhaust/effect, pumps, solenoid valves/electronic expansion valves, piping, and associated controls and accessories site wide.
• Utilize PLC programming and electronic controls systems to assist with quick calls as well as the Building Management System (BMS) for troubleshooting, programming, and repairs.
• Integrate and optimize electronic controls to enhance the performance and efficiency of the HVAC systems.
• Troubleshoot, maintain, repair, or replace all mechanical and electronic components in walk-in freezers, walk-in coolers, and rack systems that utilize PLC and advanced electronic efficiency controls (EEC).
• Implement and maintain PLC controlled refrigeration systems ensuring real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and efficient operation of all refrigeration systems.
• Perform upgrades and retrofits on existing refrigeration systems to integrate electronic controls, enhancing system reliability and reducing food waste due to downtime.
• Interface and communicate with third party contractors/vendors involved in infrastructure repairs, upgrades, and replacements of HVAC/R equipment; ensure all contractor work meets industry standards and company expectations for quality and performance.
• Interface with the BMS systems to program, modify, and optimize set points and BAS schedules as requested by customers or management, ensuring precise control over environmental conditions.
• Populate the Maximo system to ensure every piece of HVAC/R equipment asset is in Maximo and that every asset has a PM job plan and schedule to be PM’d.
• Utilize the BMS to aid in full-functional PM testing.
• Assist the HVAC Planners by creating detailed technical documentation to support accurate parts procurement and efficient equipment maintenance.
• Provide mechanical, technical, and programming guidance to HVAC Tech II’s, Tech III’s and HVAC apprentices.
• Continually improve the department’s education, experience, and skill set in advanced HVAC/R technologies.
• Conduct training sessions focused on best practices for maintaining modern complex HVAC/R systems.
• Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Technical school preferred; Associate degree (AA) preferred.
• 6+ years equivalent Commercial/Industrial HVAC/R systems experience including building automation systems, PLC systems, boilers, chilled water, DX equipment up to 40 tons, VAV’s and Data center HVAC systems (required).
• 1+ year in theme park industry preferred.
• Valid Florida Driver’s License (mandatory for operation of company vehicles).
• EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification (required for handling refrigerants).
• Journeyman, Contractor, or Masters license with a minimum of 8,000 hours of relevant job experience issued by a Municipality, City, County, or State for the MEP trades (required).

Qualifications

• Execute advanced tasks in the troubleshooting, repair, maintenance, and installation of refrigeration, heating, air conditioning, ventilation systems, and associated controls.
• Organize and perform complex service operations, repairs, and overhauls of light commercial and industrial HVACR systems.
• Interpret and understand intricate electrical schematics, BMS control functions, and electrical distribution networks.
• Identify root causes of system issues and determine appropriate repair solutions.
• Analyze system performance data to assess the need for increased maintenance intervals or enhancements to equipment efficiency.
• Support Utilities management by overseeing and documenting contractor activities to ensure compliance with specifications and standards.