Lead HVAC and Refrigeration Technician

Salary: $6,011.20 - $7,694.27 Monthly Location : Throughout Poway Unified School District, CA Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 25-0145 Site/Dept: Facilities, Maintenance & Operations Opening Date: 03/03/2026 Closing Date: 4/1/2026 4:00 PM Pacific Number of Working Months: 12 Description Selection Procedure Applications will be screened, and those candidates whose backgrounds best match the requirements of the position will be invited to participate in a competitive examination process, which may include any combination of the following: Training & Experience evaluation (T&E), job-related performance exercise, and technical/oral appraisal interview. Examination procedures are subject to change as deemed necessary by the Director of the Personnel Commission. PUSD Classification Salary Range: $34.68 - $44.39 per hourAnticipated Hiring Salary Range: $34.68 per hour (step 1) - $40.22 per hour (step 4) Candidates who pass all of the examination processes are ranked on an eligibility list according to their score(s). Selection for the position will be made from among the top three (3) ranks of candidates. The eligibility list will be used for hiring purposes in other vacancies in the same, or equivalent, job classification and will be active for six (6) months (Merit Rule 50.100.1). The Current vacancy is 8 hours per day, 12 months per year, located at the Facilities, Maintenance, & Operations (FMO) Department. PURPOSE STATEMENT: The job of Lead HVAC & Refrigeration Technician is done for the purposes of providing journey-level skilled work in the installation, maintenance, and repair of air conditioning, heating; installing, managing, and repairing chilled water systems, chillers, boilers; reviewing work requests; assigning and leading the work of other technicians; conducting scheduled maintenance and repair surveys; inspecting completed work; ensuring completion of projects in accordance with trade standards; providing information on the operation of HVAC systems; and supporting other skilled trades in completing work assignments. This job reports to the Maintenance Supervisor. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Analyzes blueprints, schematics, and drawings for existing and proposed HVAC systems for the purpose of identifying the location of new and existing systems and determining the efficient installation of additional equipment/systems. Confers with immediate supervisor and assists with the coordination of day-to-day activities (e.g. periodic lubrication; filter cleaning; changing belts, repairing system leaks, checking water tower components, trouble/issues phone call response, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring the proper and efficient maintenance and repair of District HVAC. Coordinates with administration and other trades for the purpose of completing projects/work orders efficiently. Coordinates personnel regarding procedures and/or status of work orders (e.g. establishing work schedules, reviewing processes to be undertaken, etc.) for the purpose of providing direction and information for decision-making, taking appropriate action, and/or complying with health and safety regulations. Diagnoses causes of problems and/or failures in heating/air conditioning (e.g. blowers, filters, the flow of condenser water, water treatment system, variable air volume (VAV) systems, and pumps, etc.) for the purpose of identifying equipment and/or systems repair and replacement needs. Installs electrical HVAC system components (e.g. alarms, switches, timers, service disconnects, relay, controllers, variable frequency drive (VFD), etc.) for the purpose of providing enhanced and/or upgraded capabilities. Estimates materials and/or equipment needed to initiate/complete work projects for the purpose of ensuring timely implementation and completion of projects. Fabricates equipment parts (e.g drain pans, repiping, reducting, etc.) for the purpose of meeting specialty needs and/or replacing discontinued or unavailable parts. Implements assigned programs and/or projects (e.g. inspection schedules, preventive maintenance programs, new District projects, work orders, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring optimal HVAC operation and conformance to established guidelines. Informs personnel regarding procedures and/or status of work orders for the purpose of providing information for making decisions, taking appropriate action, and/or complying with health and building regulations. Inspects completed work (e.g. heating units, building exhaust fans, ventilation units, repair of gas heaters and boilers, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring the quality of work standards are met and identifying preventive maintenance requirements. Installs heating/air conditioning equipment and systems (e.g. boilers, chilled water systems, etc.) for the purpose of providing enhanced and/or upgraded HVAC capabilities. Maintains a variety of files and records (e.g. time sheets, inventory, work orders, labor/material estimates, equipment repair manuals, service records, etc.) for the purpose of providing up-to-date references and audit trail. Manages operation and performance records (e.g. periodic lubrication schedules, heating and cooling performance, diagnosis of electrical systems, testing of refrigerant and condensation systems, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring timely review and assessment. Monitors contract work (e.g. coordination of contractor work schedules and performance, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring contract terms are fulfilled and work standards are met. Oversees and coordinates assigned personnel regarding procedures, the status of work orders, and the day-to-day activities and operations (e.g. establishing work schedules, reviewing processes to be undertaken, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring that assignments are completed in a safe, proper, and timely manner, maximizing the efficiency of the workforce. Participates in meetings, workshops, and training (e.g. new employee training, 3rd party contractor meeting, maintenance department meetings, etc.) for the purpose of conveying, gathering information, offering recommendations required to complete HVAC and training personnel. Procures equipment and supplies (e.g. overseeing inventory requirements, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining the availability of required items in order to complete jobs efficiently. Responds to emergency situations during and after hours for the purpose of resolving immediate operational and safety concerns. Tests and repairs heating and air conditioning systems and components; swimming pool equipment (e.g. braze or solder tubing; charge systems with refrigerant gas; condensers, valves and coils, piping, boilers, air handlers, motors, etc.) for the purpose of providing solutions for HVAC system operation for a safe and comfortable work/learning environment. OTHER FUNCTIONS: Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of District's HVAC and general maintenance. Minimum Qualifications EXPERIENCE: Job related experience with increasing levels of responsibility is required. EDUCATION: No specific education is required. EQUIVALENCY: Any combination equivalent to three (3) years of journey-level experience in the air conditioning, heating and refrigeration field, including one (1) year with the responsibility to lead/supervise the work of others. Supplemental Information SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES: SKILLS are required to perform multiple, technical tasks with a need to occasionally upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: adhering to safety practices and procedures; analyzing data; diagnosing equipment malfunctions; estimating required resources; inspecting buildings and/or grounds; inspecting equipment; operating job-related equipment; preparing working drawings; reading blueprints and schematics; DDC programming and monitoring; and operating trade software. KNOWLEDGE is required to perform basic math, including calculations using fractions, percents, and/or ratios; read technical information, compose a variety of documents, and/or facilitate group discussions; and analyze situations to define issues and draw conclusions. Specific knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: function and operation of heating, cooling; Direct Digital Controls (DDC); materials, tools, and methods used for repair; electrical and air conditioning terms and materials; principles of direction and training; indoor air monitoring equipment and interpretation of resulting data; standards for design and construction; air conditioning and heating codes; electrical and air conditioning systems, circuitry, terms, and materials; hazards and safety precautions; codes/laws/rules/regulations/policies; and school safety and security practices. ABILITY is required to schedule activities, meetings, and/or events; gather, collate, and/or classify data; and consider a wide variety of factors when using equipment. Flexibility is required to work with others in a variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined but different processes; and operate equipment using a variety of standardized methods. Ability is also required to work with a wide diversity of individuals; work with a variety of data; and utilize a wide variety of types of job-related equipment. Problem solving is required to analyze issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data frequently requires independent interpretation of guidelines; and problem solving with equipment is moderate to significant. Specific ability based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: training and directing assigned staff; collaborating with staff, administration, contractors, and students; adapting to changing work priorities; dealing with frequent interruptions; displaying mechanical aptitude; meeting deadlines and schedules; organizing tasks; working as part of a team; working extended hours; heavy lifting; working with chemicals; working around and with machinery having moving parts; and working at heights. RESPONSIBILITY: Responsibilities include working independently under broad organizational guidelines to achieve unit objectives; directing other persons within a small work unit; tracking budget expenditures. Utilization of some resources from other work units is often required to perform the job's functions. There is a continual opportunity to impact the organization's services. LICENSES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Required Testing Certificates Pre-Employment Proficiency Test Type I and Type 2 EPA Technician Certification Valid Driver's License Continuing Educ./Training Clearances Mandated Reporter Training Criminal Background Clearance Physical Capacities Test Clearance Fingerprinting and TB Clearance WORKING ENVIRONMENT: The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: significant lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, frequent climbing and balancing, frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling and some fine finger dexterity. The job is performed under some temperature extremes and under conditions with some exposure to risk of injury and/or illness. Indoor and outdoor work environment. Driving a vehicle to conduct work. Regular exposure to fumes, dust, and odors. HAZARDS: Working around and with machinery having moving parts. Working at heights. Working with and or around high voltage. Working with equipment operating under high pressure. The Poway Unified School District (PUSD) is an equal opportunity employer/program and is committed to an active Nondiscrimination Program. PUSD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, ethnic group identification, ancestry, religion, gender, gender identification, mental or physical disability. For more information, please contact the Title IX/Equity Compliance Officer, Associate Superintendent of Personnel Support Services, Poway Unified School District, 15250 Avenue of Science, San Diego, CA 92128-3406 Poway Unified School District offers an excellent benefits package for eligible contract employees who are contracted for 20 (twenty) or more hours per week. Benefits include: Retirement - CalPERS Holidays - 18 paid holidays per year (based on 12-month employment contract) Vacation - Starting at 12 days per year for 12-month employees, increasing with length of service Sick Leave - 12 paid sick days per year (for 12 working months) Medical and Prescription Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Life Insurance Travel Insurance Flexible Spending Accounts Wellness/Mental Health Benefit Flexible Benefit Plan Options For further information regarding our benefits, please visit our website at: 01 The following supplemental questions will help us determine how well you meet the minimum employment qualification standards for this position. Qualified means that you meet the minimum qualifications found in the job description. Incomplete responses will disqualify your application or reduce the credit given for your qualifications. Respond honestly and truthfully to all questions. Over-evaluating your skill level is considered providing false and/or misleading information. Applicants found to have provided false or misleading information of their skills may be disqualified from further employment processing, or if hired, immediately terminated from employment. Please note: () Answering "See Application" or "See Resume" on any of the following questions may result in your application being disqualified from further consideration in the recruitment process. () Your related work experience must be clearly shown in the areas for work history on your application. () The information provided in answering these questions will be considered in determining whether you will move to the next step and may be used as part of a technical and experience evaluation. () I acknowledge that I have read and understood the above statement. (Please initial in the space provided below). 02 This position requires a valid California Class C driver's license.Do you possess this license? Yes No 03 This position requires three (3) years of journey-level experience in the heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration field, including one (1) year with the responsibility to lead/supervise the work of others. (Journey-level experience is considered to be achieved after four (4) years of progressive experience in the hearing, air conditioning, and refrigeration field.) Do you meet this criteria?(A Lead HVAC & Refrigeration Technician would have a high school diploma and one of the following that leads to skilled or Journey-level equivalency: At least four (4) years of progressively responsible work experience, or trade schooling and experience, or a formal apprenticeship.) Yes - At least four (4) years of progressively responsible work experience Yes - Trade schooling and Experience Yes - Formal Apprenticeship No - I do not meet these requirements 04 To substantiate the experience indicated above, please list your relevant work experience. Include your employer(s), the position(s) you held, and years/months of experience.Note: Any experience referenced here must also be included in the work history section of your application. List N/A if this does not apply. (Failure to answer this question may result in disqualification.) 05 This position requires Refrigerant Recovery Certification (Type I and Type II EPA Technician Certification). Do you possess this certification? (Please attach a copy to your application or submit it to our office by the close of the recruitment. If this document is not attached, your application may be disqualified.) Yes No 06 Please check the box that best describes your experience in a Lead role Less than 6 months experience 6 months to 1 year experience 1 to 2 years experience 2 to 4 years experience 4 years or more of experience 07 A Lead HVAC & Refrigeration Technician is responsible for providing training and basic work direction to HVAC & Refrigeration Technicians. Please indicate where you have had this responsibility in your current, or past, job(s). Include your employer(s), the position(s) you held, and years/months of experience. Note: Any experience referenced here must also be included in the work history section of your application.List N/A if this does not apply.(Answering "See Application" or "See Resume" to this question may disqualify your application from further consideration and participation in the recruitment process.) 08 How many years of JOURNEY-LEVEL HVAC & Refrigeration experience do you have? No Journey-level experience Less than 2 years of Journey-level experience Greater than 2 years of Journey-level experience but less than 4 years Greater than 4 years of Journey-level experience but less than 6 years Greater than 6 years of Journey-level experience 09 Do you have any experience performing any of the following duties? (Check all that apply) Tracked HVAC and Refrigeration expenses Tracked HVAC & Refrigerant inventory Estimated labor, materials and equipment costs for HVAC & Refrigeration projects Directing technicians, while mentoring and providing training Oversaw repair/installations to ensure completed within projected timeline Performed maintenance and repairs for HVAC & Refrigeration systems None of the above 10 Check the box that most accurately describes how familiar you are with reading blueprints & schematics for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration systems. Never - I have not performed this task in a professional setting. Rarely - I have performed this task infrequently (a few times per year in limited situations). Occasionally - I perform this task periodically (monthly or as needed), but it is not a primary function of my role. Frequently - I perform this task regularly (weekly) as a normal part of my responsibilities. Very Frequently - I perform this task as a core function of my job on a daily or near-daily basis. 11 Check the box that most accurately describes your experience with Direct Digital Controls (DDC) I have performed this activity on my own on the job and have directed others in its performance I have performed this activity on my own on the job I have assisted others in performing this activity on the job I have been trained in this activity, but have not performed it I have never been trained or performed this activity I have done this extensively at a high level of complexity Required Question

Created: 2026-03-10