University of Alabama at Birmingham
CENTRAL PLANT CHILLER MECHANIC (2)
University of Alabama at Birmingham, El Paso, Texas, United States
Position Summary
The Central Plant Chiller Mechanic performs routine and preventive maintenance, repairs, modifications, replacement, and installation of centrifugal chillers and refrigeration equipment, components, and supporting equipment located in the Central Plant buildings and other outlying facilities on campus. This role may assist other maintenance personnel, including Central Plant Repairers, Central Plant Operators, Water Treatment Specialists, Electricians, and Plumbers. The mechanic reads, understands, and interprets blueprints, drawings, floor plans, schedules, and manufacturer's specifications related to electrical, mechanical, plumbing, millwright, and machinist work, special equipment, and building structures and finishes. The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise and commitment to safety and teamwork.
Key Responsibilities
Perform preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs, modifications, replacements, and installations on electronic, direct digital, pneumatic, and PLC (Programmable Logic Controllers) controls and devices for chillers, chiller components, refrigeration units, and supporting equipment.
Perform preventive maintenance, repairs, modifications, replacements, rebuilds, and installations on chiller and refrigeration unit electrical and mechanical components and supporting equipment such as: condensing units, evaporators, purge units, compressors, cooling towers, chilled and evaporator water pumps, piping, valves, heat exchangers, motors, hoists, motor control centers, power and lighting panels, fan units, emergency generators, lighting systems, air compressors and drying systems, 13.2 KV/4160 V breakers, and other similar equipment.
Perform centrifugal chiller rebuilds, including the replacement of O‑rings, gaskets, seals, bearings (sleeve Babbitt, thrust/counter‑thrust, and roller bearings). Set clearances on labyrinth seals, journal bearings, seal openings, thrust and counter‑thrust clearances per the manufacturer's specifications using dial indicators, inside and outside micrometers, calipers, and other precision measuring devices.
Perform rebuilds/machinist work on cooling tower gearboxes, drive couplings, intermediate shafts, fan blade pitches, centrifugal pumps, and seal replacements. Utilize reverse dial indicator alignment procedures on all types of shaft alignments and use a variety of precision measuring devices to conform with specified dimensions.
Utilize CFC and HCFC refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment; maintain records; perform all service and maintenance repairs in accordance with current EPA regulations.
Carry out additional duties as assigned to support facility operations.
Qualifications
Graduate from an accredited Vocational School in HVAC and four (4) years of relevant experience is required.
Relevant and progressive work experience may substitute for the education requirement.
Certifications
Section 608 Technician Type I, II, III, or Universal Certification from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) required. Applicants who are EPA certified are encouraged to apply.
Driving Record Requirement The driving record should meet University underwriting guidelines to drive vehicles in performance of university business. Current underwriting guidelines include possession of a valid driver's license issued in the United States; at least 21 years of age; at least three years of driving experience; maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Technical Proficiency
Expertise in steam fitting, pipefitting techniques.
Familiarity with mechanical systems including steam, chilled water, compressed air, HVAC.
Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications.
Basic mechanical aptitude.
Knowledge of trades mechanics, refrigeration, plumbing, electrical/electronics.
Safety & Compliance
Knowledge of confined space entry procedures and safety standards.
Ability to work safely and comply with safety regulations.
Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to diagnose and resolve complex system issues.
Technology & Tools
Proficient with personal computer maintenance software.
Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite digital work order systems.
Proficiency in using tools and technology relevant to the role.
Communication & Collaboration
Effective verbal communication skills.
Strong interpersonal conflict resolution abilities.
Ability to work independently as part of a team.
Organizational & Leadership Abilities
Strong organizational prioritization skills.
Ability to lead, mentor junior staff, and collaborate across trades.
Experience with process improvement and quality assurance.
Project & Time Management
Capable of managing multiple tasks and responding to emergencies.
Basic project management skills for coordinating installations and repairs.
Physical Requirements
Lifting and carrying a minimum of 50 pounds.
Climbing stairs, ladders, and scaffolding, and working at heights above thirty (30) feet.
Perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing, and walking significant distances between and within buildings on campus.
Working within extreme temperature and humidity ranges with a variety of materials.
Working in confined spaces.
Compensation & Benefits
Starting pay range: $24.05 – $31.30 Hourly (commensurate with experience and qualifications).
OT Pay: 0–10 Hours OT/Week expected; may exceed 10 Hours/Week under extraordinary conditions.
Benefits include multiple health care options, dental, vision, pre‑tax flexible spending account, health savings account, participation in the RSA Pension plan, 403(b), 457(b) retirement savings plan, accident insurance, identity theft protection, pet benefits, life/AD&D disability insurance, UAB Employee Wellness, employee assistance counseling, vacation, sick leave, 9 paid holidays/year, 3 personal holidays/year, educational assistance for employees’ families.
Work Schedule
7:00 am – 3:30 pm Monday‑Friday plus OT as required.
Must be able to work a flexible work schedule including on‑call.
This position may require overtime including evenings, weekends, holidays as operational needs dictate (subject to change to meet the needs of the University).
Application Instructions For full consideration, please apply with resume and cover letter by the posted deadline. The submitted documents should highlight qualifications and experience relevant to the position as described in the posting. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.
Job Information Primary Location: University
Job Category: Facilities
Organization: 112802010 Chilled Water
Employee Status: Regular
Shift: Day/1st Shift
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type: Part‑time
Job Function: Management and Manufacturing
Industry: Higher Education
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Key Responsibilities
Perform preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs, modifications, replacements, and installations on electronic, direct digital, pneumatic, and PLC (Programmable Logic Controllers) controls and devices for chillers, chiller components, refrigeration units, and supporting equipment.
Perform preventive maintenance, repairs, modifications, replacements, rebuilds, and installations on chiller and refrigeration unit electrical and mechanical components and supporting equipment such as: condensing units, evaporators, purge units, compressors, cooling towers, chilled and evaporator water pumps, piping, valves, heat exchangers, motors, hoists, motor control centers, power and lighting panels, fan units, emergency generators, lighting systems, air compressors and drying systems, 13.2 KV/4160 V breakers, and other similar equipment.
Perform centrifugal chiller rebuilds, including the replacement of O‑rings, gaskets, seals, bearings (sleeve Babbitt, thrust/counter‑thrust, and roller bearings). Set clearances on labyrinth seals, journal bearings, seal openings, thrust and counter‑thrust clearances per the manufacturer's specifications using dial indicators, inside and outside micrometers, calipers, and other precision measuring devices.
Perform rebuilds/machinist work on cooling tower gearboxes, drive couplings, intermediate shafts, fan blade pitches, centrifugal pumps, and seal replacements. Utilize reverse dial indicator alignment procedures on all types of shaft alignments and use a variety of precision measuring devices to conform with specified dimensions.
Utilize CFC and HCFC refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment; maintain records; perform all service and maintenance repairs in accordance with current EPA regulations.
Carry out additional duties as assigned to support facility operations.
Qualifications
Graduate from an accredited Vocational School in HVAC and four (4) years of relevant experience is required.
Relevant and progressive work experience may substitute for the education requirement.
Certifications
Section 608 Technician Type I, II, III, or Universal Certification from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) required. Applicants who are EPA certified are encouraged to apply.
Driving Record Requirement The driving record should meet University underwriting guidelines to drive vehicles in performance of university business. Current underwriting guidelines include possession of a valid driver's license issued in the United States; at least 21 years of age; at least three years of driving experience; maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Technical Proficiency
Expertise in steam fitting, pipefitting techniques.
Familiarity with mechanical systems including steam, chilled water, compressed air, HVAC.
Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications.
Basic mechanical aptitude.
Knowledge of trades mechanics, refrigeration, plumbing, electrical/electronics.
Safety & Compliance
Knowledge of confined space entry procedures and safety standards.
Ability to work safely and comply with safety regulations.
Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to diagnose and resolve complex system issues.
Technology & Tools
Proficient with personal computer maintenance software.
Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite digital work order systems.
Proficiency in using tools and technology relevant to the role.
Communication & Collaboration
Effective verbal communication skills.
Strong interpersonal conflict resolution abilities.
Ability to work independently as part of a team.
Organizational & Leadership Abilities
Strong organizational prioritization skills.
Ability to lead, mentor junior staff, and collaborate across trades.
Experience with process improvement and quality assurance.
Project & Time Management
Capable of managing multiple tasks and responding to emergencies.
Basic project management skills for coordinating installations and repairs.
Physical Requirements
Lifting and carrying a minimum of 50 pounds.
Climbing stairs, ladders, and scaffolding, and working at heights above thirty (30) feet.
Perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing, and walking significant distances between and within buildings on campus.
Working within extreme temperature and humidity ranges with a variety of materials.
Working in confined spaces.
Compensation & Benefits
Starting pay range: $24.05 – $31.30 Hourly (commensurate with experience and qualifications).
OT Pay: 0–10 Hours OT/Week expected; may exceed 10 Hours/Week under extraordinary conditions.
Benefits include multiple health care options, dental, vision, pre‑tax flexible spending account, health savings account, participation in the RSA Pension plan, 403(b), 457(b) retirement savings plan, accident insurance, identity theft protection, pet benefits, life/AD&D disability insurance, UAB Employee Wellness, employee assistance counseling, vacation, sick leave, 9 paid holidays/year, 3 personal holidays/year, educational assistance for employees’ families.
Work Schedule
7:00 am – 3:30 pm Monday‑Friday plus OT as required.
Must be able to work a flexible work schedule including on‑call.
This position may require overtime including evenings, weekends, holidays as operational needs dictate (subject to change to meet the needs of the University).
Application Instructions For full consideration, please apply with resume and cover letter by the posted deadline. The submitted documents should highlight qualifications and experience relevant to the position as described in the posting. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.
Job Information Primary Location: University
Job Category: Facilities
Organization: 112802010 Chilled Water
Employee Status: Regular
Shift: Day/1st Shift
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type: Part‑time
Job Function: Management and Manufacturing
Industry: Higher Education
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