HVAC 2

The University of California, Merced is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. The budgeted hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $39.61/hr.

Initial applicant review will begin on or around September 11, 2023. Posting will remain open until filled.

This union position is represented by the bargaining unit Skilled Craft — KM Teamsters Local 2010 .

Remote/Hybrid eligibility: This position is fully on-site. 

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses and the first American research university built in the 21st century. With more than 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students, UC Merced offers an environment that combines a commitment to diversity, inclusion, collaboration and professional development. With bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs, strong research and academic partnerships, and community involvement, the UC Merced campus is continually evolving and requires talented, knowledgeable and dynamic educators, researchers, management and staff.

Ranked among the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, UC Merced is uniquely equipped to provide educational opportunities for highly qualified students from the San Joaquin Valley and throughout California. The campus enjoys a special connection with nearby Yosemite National Park, is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design and supports the economic development of Merced and the region.

The Merced 2020 Project, a $1.3 billion public-private partnership unprecedented in higher education and completed in 2020, nearly doubled the physical capacity of the campus, enhancing academic distinction, student success and research excellence. UC Merced also operates the Downtown Campus Center, a $33 million, three-story administrative building located in the heart of Merced.

The university’s mission of educational excellence and rigorous inquiry is powered by three schools and numerous research institutes and centers that seek scientific and social solutions for the Valley, California and the world. In partnership with UC San Francisco, UC Merced is preparing the way for a rigorous medical education program.

The course of UC Merced’s evolution is piloted by a long-range strategic plan. Enacted in 2021, the 10-year blueprint is guiding how the values of equity and justice influence our pathway to earning Carnegie R1 research status, growing enrollment, upholding our identity as a minority-serving institution, and operationalizing how commitments to equity, diversity and inclusion are enacted in each campus unit.

To perform skilled journeyman level work, with an emphasis on heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) work in the installation, modification, servicing, troubleshooting and repair of the UC Merced heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment and systems; including centrifugal chillers, hermetic type refrigeration units, hot water and steam boilers, and associated controls (i.e. electromechanical, electronic, and pneumatic). Experience in programming and troubleshooting Direct Digital Controls and EMCS Systems. Installs, replaces, adjusts and repairs pressure regulators, compressors, evaporators, condensers, motors, variable frequency drives, chemical fume hoods, glove boxes, kitchen equipment (e.g. walk in boxes, display coolers, ovens, fryers) electrical water pumps, refrigerators, freezers and ice machines. Adjusts and balances air distribution systems; uses various testing devices to locate defective parts; adds refrigerants and oil; flushes boilers; de-scales tubing; solders, brazes, cuts, threads, connects and repairs pipe; makes necessary electrical connections and repairs. Requires the ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and plumbing schematics and drawings, ability to prepare estimates, plan and manage own projects within allotted budgets; instruct and guide HVAC I, semi-skilled or unskilled assistants.

Work is performed on a variety of building systems, sometimes in emergency repair situations. This class must take the necessary safety precautions when working around machines, equipment, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Judgment is required in troubleshooting system problems and in determining methods of repair. This class is expected to resolve problems occurring in daily assignments and discuss unusual problems with the supervisor. This position will be required to work a non-standard work schedule with the ability to work variable and irregular hours and shifts, weekends, and holidays, and participate in an on-call program.  Incumbent must possess excellent customer service skills. This class must take the necessary safety precautions when working to follow department guidelines, equipment service and operation manuals, and code regulations.

This class is the first journeyman level position of this series. The HVAC 2 class involves full responsibility for the performance of the more advanced HVAC tasks. Incumbents in this class perform work independently with considerable latitude for determining work methods used and are subject to periodic spot checks. This class may assist other mechanics in diagnosing and repairing HVAC equipment with complex, unusual and/or very difficult problems; assist other skilled trade workers in maintenance and repair of buildings and campus facilities; and performs related work as required.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• OPERATIONS: Demonstrated technical skills and knowledge to effectively operate, maintain, and repair equipment with an emphasis on HVAC-2 equipment and associated campus utility systems; manually and with computer controls. Ensure proper operation of all assigned equipment and machinery within the Central Plant, on the Physical Plant campus and at remote facilities as assigned by the Operations Supervisor. Monitor all safety systems associated with the operations of all HVAC-2 equipment and utility systems. Monitor radio dispatch and off hour telephone functions.
• TESTING: Perform and ensure proper testing and analysis of all HVAC-2 component systems. Maintain all logs and reports related to the testing as required.
• TRAINING: Attend and participate in safety and technical trainings. Provide training on the operation and maintenance of fire alarm and fire protections systems under normal and emergency conditions. Attend all vendor and professional training classes as assigned by management. Maintain current code and regulatory knowledge, updates procedures, skills and operational knowledge of campus fire alarm, life safety and fire protection systems as installed, modified, or added to the campus and remote facilities.
• CLERICAL: Perform related projects, reports, records, and other clerical functions as assigned. Must have basic computer skills related to E-mail, computerized maintenance management system (CMMS), Word, Excel, reporting, and timekeeping,
• MISCELLANEOUS: Work as assigned by the supervisor on all areas, including housekeeping and refurbishing the facilities. Will manage individual safety requirements as required by Cal OSHA, UC policy, codes, and regulations. Monitor operating conditions by reading gauges, meters, and automatic recording devices. Monitor gauges and equipment and make appropriate adjustments or take corrective action. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures. Assists other skilled trade workers with normal repairs and emergency repairs. Monitor system alarms and respond to emergencies and dispatch Physical Plant staff and service contractors accordingly. Assists other skilled trade workers to perform equipment repairs and PM’s, as assigned.

EDUCATION and REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma and/or equivalent certification/experience/training.
• Five or more years of progressively responsible related experience in commercial, institutional and/or industrial HVAC trade.
• A combination of experience and training may be substituted for education.
• Completion of a State or Federally recognized (minimum four-year) apprenticeship in the HVAC trade.
• Possess and maintain an EPA Universal Certification, section 608 Clean Air Act.
• Possess and maintain a license to operate a Class: C motor vehicle in the state of California.

CRITICAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Demonstrated technical skills and knowledge to effectively operate HVAC-R systems, low- and high-pressure boilers and all related equipment by using manual and computer control programs, including Building Automation Systems.
• Demonstrated skill to maintain service, repair, replace, install, and alter HVAC-R equipment and distribution systems (e.g. steam, hot water, chilled water), refrigerators, freezers and ice machines and other campus systems related to craft functions. Skills to analyze and solve problems and possible impacts to heating and cooling systems. Skills to solder and braze piping.
• Inspects, tests, repairs, maintains, and services all types of refrigeration, hot water, forced air heating and ventilation equipment, electrical and electronic components, including chillers, boilers, hermetic type refrigeration units, and pneumatic controls.
• Knowledge of boilers, steam systems, chilled water systems, absorbers, chiller pumps and related equipment; to include electrical operating controls of the installed equipment.
• Electrical skill to include the use of basic electrical measuring meters and knowledge of simple AC/DC series and series parallel circuits. Skills to use testing equipment including but not limited to voltmeters; ammeters; ohmmeters; airflow meters; temperature and humidity recorders.
• Ability to safely use tools and test equipment pertinent to the trade, to include combustion efficiency testers, refrigerant charging charts, vacuum pumps, micron gauges, refrigerant electronic leak detectors, infrared temperature testers, pneumatic test equipment, electronic temperature testers, micro amp flame signal testers, gas pressure testers, manometers, air balancing test equipment, water balancing test equipment, electronic refrigerant charging scales, propane torches, map gas torches and oxygen and acetylene torches, refrigerant reclaim and recovery equipment, and hand and power tools.
• Skills to make chemical tests of water systems:  boiler condensate, cooling towers, chilled circulating, raw treated make up and distilled. Knowledge and skill to maintain chemical control of tested water within prescribed limits.
• Requires the ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and plumbing schematics and drawings, to prepare estimates, plan in addition, manage own projects within allotted budgets. Instruct and guide semi-skilled or unskilled assistants.
• Knowledge and skills to review and understand technical data, specifications, blueprints, schematics, diagrams, and craft terminology to insure job performance. Knowledge of all applicable codes including but not limited to NEC, ICBO, NFC, UMC, and Title 24.
• Current knowledge of approved safety devices, practices, and job-related equipment through self-study and selected training.
• Demonstrated experience to work within a team environment with other crafts and to assist fellow crafts persons when required. Ability to show team leadership.
• Ability to maintain proficiency in the trade through self-study and selected training.
• Highly motivated and result orientated.  Must maintain flexibility in a continuously changing and fast-paced work environment.
• Ability to train apprentices or trainees if required.
• Demonstrated experience to work independently and use initiative in solving problems.
• Proficient in the use of computers, mobile devices, etc. and learn the use of software programs for work management, retrieve workflow information, job assignments and material and labor data entry.  Must be accurate and timely in the use of the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
• Organizational skills to understand and meet established unit goals and objectives and meet project deadlines within estimated budget.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills to effectively communicate technical/non-technical problems or concerns with supervisors, co-workers and campus personnel as required. Must be able to provide clearly written and understandable reports and instructions.
• Familiar with physical and electrical hazards involved with MEP system repairs, troubleshooting, etc.
• Ability to troubleshoot, maintain and repair utility and distribution systems.
• Excellent customer service skills, which include ability to handle difficult situations such as a complaint from customers and exhibit a positive demeanor at all times.
• Ability to perform duties in inclement weather, climb ladders and scaffolds and routinely work in dark, hot, cold, or damp working environments in tiring, physically demanding positions for long periods of time.
• Ability to inspect systems and buildings to detect existing or potential problems.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Ability to learn related job functions to perform a variety of related tasks under general supervision at a semi-skilled level.
• Ability to coordinate with project managers and building inspector.
• Ability to maintain up-to-date, accurate, comprehensive project records including plans, specifications, submittals, schedules, requests, changes, approvals, and costs.
• Ability to consult lead/supervisor or project superintendents who administer requirements and standards for modification of projects.
• Ability to support maintenance projects and programmatic work assignments.
• Ability to complete paperwork in a neat and timely manner.
• Ability to serve as liaison with clients, relaying their needs and requirements to the appropriate department or superintendent.
• Ability to work and support shutdowns and project schedules to minimize interference with others.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely over the telephone and radio.
• Ability to attend safety, technical and general meetings.
• Ability to interpret, learn and apply University and Operations & Maintenance policies and procedures.
• Ability to perform all work while conforming with EH&S health and safety policies, OSHA and other applicable federal, state and local fire, health, safety, emergency-preparedness, pollution-prevention policies, UC Merced policies and procedures and University of California’s policies and procedures, including Code of Conduct, IIPP (Safety and Health Procedures), Hazardous Materials Communications Program, Health and Safety Manual, as well as any other document authorized by the UC Merced management to have bearing on employee safety and conduct.

Background check and fingerprinting will be required.

How to Apply:
An online application is required for each position to apply.The University of California, Merced is aware that some web-based application processes may be cumbersome for differently abled applicants. Where appropriate, alternative accommodations will be provided. For applicants with disabilities who need additional assistance using TAM, or reasonable accommodations during the interview or search process, please contact [email protected].

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The University of California, Merced is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, pregnancy, or status as a disabled veteran or Vietnam-era veteran, or other protected categories covered by the UC Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action Policy . UC Merced intentionally promotes and maintains a discrimination- and harassment-free workplace by demonstrating it neither condones nor tolerates employment practices that discriminate against or harass any person or specific group of persons on the basis listed above. We seek candidates who will support our vision to cultivate a vibrant, equity-minded, inclusive excellence university community. When applying to UC Merced, we strongly encourage you to reflect on our Principles of Community and our 2021 strategic plan.  

Vaccination Program Policy:

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy .  All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of Full Vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, and/or Religious Objection) or Deferral (based on pregnancy) no later than the applicable deadline.  For new University of California employees, the applicable deadline is 14 days after their first date of employment. 

Smoke and Tobacco Free Policy:
The University of California, Merced is a smoke and tobacco free workplace.  Information and the Smoke and Tobacco Free policy is available at http://smokefree.ucmerced.edu .

E-Verify:
All employers who receive Federal contracts and grants are required to comply with E-Verify, an  Internet-based system operated by the Department of Homeland  Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA). E-Verify electronically verifies employment eligibility by comparing information provided on the I-9 form to records in the DHS and SSA databases. Certain positions funded by federal contracts/subcontracts requires UC Merced to notify job applicants that an E-Verify check will be conducted and the successful candidate must pass the E-Verify check.

Pay, Benefits & Work Schedule:
For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University of California visit: http://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/

This position is eligible for the UC Merced Employee Referral Program (ERP). If you were referred by a UC Merced employee, please identify that employee by name in your application as follows:

Step 5 of 7       Referrals                         

How did you hear about the job? (select) “other”

Additional information? (select) “other”

Specific Referral Source? (write in) first and last name of referring employee 

Referring employee MUST be named on application for eligibility.