HVAC Technician

About the Organization

The Henry Ford is a nonprofit organization and internationally recognized cultural destination that provides unique educational experiences based on authentic objects, stories, and lives from America's traditions of ingenuity, resourcefulness, and innovation. Our purpose is to inspire people to learn from these traditions to help shape a better future. Our team is inspired daily by one another and the authentic stories of innovation shared across our four venues.

About the Role

The HVAC Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing residential, commercial, and industrial heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) systems. This role ensures a safe, comfortable environment for visitors and staff while protecting the museum's valuable collections and artifacts. The technician performs diagnostics, preventive maintenance, and repairs on campus HVAC systems and Building Automation Systems (BAS), monitors system performance, and provides technical recommendations to management.

Responsibilities

• Installs, repairs, and services heating, ventilation, and refrigeration systems
• Monitors, troubleshoots, and makes necessary program adjustments to computerized systems
• Ensures HVAC system performance aligns with The Henry Ford’s facilities plan
• Utilizes building automation systems to monitor campus conditions, analyze system data, conduct diagnostics, and respond to heating, cooling, mechanical, and controls-related issues
• Troubleshoots and resolves HVAC mechanical, electrical, and controls issues, escalating as appropriate
• Installs, tests, calibrates, and commissions mechanical systems and components using appropriate electronic testing equipment
• Provides technical recommendations to Facilities Management regarding HVAC system settings, operational adjustments, and equipment performance and selection
• Performs and documents routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and post-incident evaluations of HVAC systems and related infrastructure
• Maintains accurate records and routinely reports on HVAC system performance and status
• Orders and maintains supplies and equipment
• Prioritizes and schedules repair requests
• Contributes to effective team management of problems, issues, and opportunities
• Acts as a team player and provides expertise within the team and with other teams
• Performs other job-related duties and activities as assigned

Requirements

• 7 or more years of hands-on HVAC experience
• Valid HVAC license, encompassing the knowledge and experience to install, service, troubleshoot, and repair a variety of HVAC systems, including:
  • HVAC installation
  • Boiler systems
  • Heat pump systems
  • Mini-split systems
  • Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems
  • Rooftop HVAC units
• Ability to frequently work above and below grade level, including ladders, crawl spaces, or other confined spaces

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree in HVAC, Mechanical Systems, or a related field, or completion of a recognized technical or trade school HVAC certification program
• Ability to fabricate and modify sheet metal components using standard HVAC tools and equipment

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence across all organizational levels
• Proven ability to build trust, collaborate, and drive change within a dynamic environment
• Strong written, verbal, and active listening skills with excellent interpersonal abilities
• Personal qualities of humility, self-awareness, self-reflection, and emotional intelligence
• Strong decision-making, problem-solving, negotiation, and active listening skills
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints
• Ability to complete ductwork drawings and facilitate installation
• Capable of operating a variety of hand and power tools
• Good communication skills with the ability to work independently without direct supervision
• Commitment to and enthusiasm for The Henry Ford's mission, vision, values, and service standards

Working Conditions

Physical: Standing, walking (typical). Lifting, carrying, and pushing (occasional, up to 100 lbs). Tolerance for hot and cold temperatures preferred. Ability to safely operate heavy machinery and aerial lifts. Ability to operate and maintain light equipment and tools.

Vision: Normal.

Mental: Observation, analysis, interpretation, decision-making, and multitasking. Ability to read guest needs and interests and respond appropriately. Ability to work under pressure.

Environment: Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons (including sunny and inclement weather) as necessary. Non-air-conditioned interiors. Flexibility with on-call scheduling and availability as needed during evenings, weekends, and short-notice situations.