"Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Mechanic"

Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Mechanic

Job No: 553710

Work Type: Staff

Locations: Southern California: San Diego

Categories: Bargaining Unit: Unit 6 - Teamsters Local 2010, Appointment Type: Probationary, Time Basis: Full Time, Job Search Category/Discipline: Trades, Workplace Type (Exclude Inst Fac): On-site (work in-person at business location)

Position Summary

Are you a skilled HVAC professional with a passion for precision and reliability? San Diego State University is seeking an experienced Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Mechanic to support our mission through expert-level maintenance, repair, and installation of complex HVAC and refrigeration systems. This is an opportunity to contribute to a dynamic campus environment while working alongside a dedicated facilities team.

Key Responsibilities

• System Maintenance & Repair: Perform service, repair, and installation of HVAC and refrigeration systems and components.
• Diagnostics & Troubleshooting: Use tools to assess issues and ensure optimal system performance.
• Preventive Maintenance: Deliver proactive maintenance to support campus safety and system longevity.
• Emergency Response: Respond to urgent HVAC issues to protect safety and operations.
• Project Completion: Accurately track time and materials; complete tasks on schedule.
• Safety Compliance: Follow safety protocols and contribute to a clean, hazard-free work environment.
• Team Collaboration: Communicate effectively and maintain respectful working relationships campus-wide.

Why Join Us?

• Purpose-Driven Work: Support a vibrant university community through your technical expertise.
• Team Environment: Join a collaborative and mission-aligned facilities team.
• Diverse & Inclusive Community: Work in an environment that values equity, inclusion, and respect.
• Professional Growth: Access training and development to enhance your skills.

Position Information

• Full-time, benefits eligible, permanent/probationary position.
• Position is designated non-exempt under FLSA and is eligible for overtime compensation.
• Standard SDSU work hours are Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., but may vary based on operational needs.
• The individual hired into this role will work on campus at SDSU in San Diego.

Department Summary

The Division of Business and Financial Affairs is responsible for ensuring a safe, productive campus environment while providing the highest quality service in support of academic excellence through thoughtful stewardship of financial, technological, infrastructure and human resources at San Diego State University.

SDSU Facilities Services (FS) is a customer-service based organization providing facility maintenance activities through a transparent and deliberate process. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance, repair, renovation, remodel, and alteration activities in support of the academic and research mission of the university. Facilities Services employs approximately 250 employees and supports approximately eight million square feet of buildings (including residence halls and parking structures) and 280 acres of improved and unimproved land.

For more information regarding the Refrigeration Shop in the Facilities Services department, click here.

Education and Experience

Knowledge: Work requires thorough knowledge of the theory and operation of major types of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment and of the materials, equipment and techniques used in the repair and maintenance of such equipment; and working knowledge of electrical voltage, plumbing refrigeration, electrical and plumbing codes, thermodynamics and automated energy/environmental management systems.

Abilities: In addition to the abilities required of a Building Service Engineer, the Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Mechanic must be able to use judgment and discretion in determining the methods and priorities of work orders; perform skilled electrical and plumbing work; diagnose and repair major malfunctions in the complex multi-zone air conditioning systems; devise and control air distribution efficiently with maximum comfort; and diagnose and repair the full range of refrigeration equipment including centrifugal and absorber equipment and/or screw, scroll and reciprocating refrigeration equipment.

Experience: These abilities normally would be acquired through progressively responsible experience in the installation, adjustment, maintenance and repair of commercial and domestic refrigeration and air conditioning systems involving modulatory and safety controls, thermostats, humidifiers and duct stats as well as one year of experience in the installation and repair of central multi-zone air conditioning systems. In addition, journey-level skill equivalent to that acquired through the completion of a refrigeration or air conditioning mechanic's apprenticeship program is required.

Special Requirements: Incumbents typically must possess certification in the use of refrigerants

Key Qualifications

• Ability to analyze, respond appropriately to emergency situations and to recognize, secure and report unsafe conditions immediately.
• Diagnose and repair major malfunctions in the complex multi-zone air conditioning systems.
• Diagnose and repair the full range of refrigeration equipment including centrifugal and absorber equipment and/or screw, scroll and reciprocating refrigeration equipment.
• Associate's degree and/or NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification is preferred.
• A minimum of five (5) years of full-time, journey-level experience is preferred in all phases of HVAC/R work, including the installation, maintenance, and repair of air-conditioning systems with capacities of 10 tons or greater, and HVAC systems in multi-story buildings.
• Knowledge of latest equipment and methods recommended for proper and expeditious work practices.
• Experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting central plant systems, including chilled water plants and cooling towers.
• Familiarity with thermal energy storage (TES) systems, including control logic and operational strategies.
• Understanding of hydronic distribution systems, pumps, and associated control valves.
• Familiarity working with building automation systems (BAS/DDC) for campus-wide HVAC coordination.

Licenses/Certifications Required

Valid California Driver's License or the ability to obtain one within 10 days of hire.

Valid Certification in the proper handling and use of refrigerants, as required by federal EPA regulations.

Compensation and Benefits

San Diego State University offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.

Compensation:
CSU Classification Salary Range: $71,976 - $104,844 per year (Step 1 - Step 20); Step placement will be determined based on relevant qualifications and professional experience. Step placement upon appointment is not expected to exceed Step 10 ($86,016) for highly qualified candidates. Future increases, including step advancement, are subject to contract negotiations.

Full Benefits Package Includes:

• Generous Time Off: 15 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Retirement: CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare, and reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems, including the UC.
• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision options at low or no cost.
• Education Support: CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents.
• Optional Offerings: FlexCash, life and disability insurance, legal and pet plans.
• Campus & Community: Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities.

Our benefits are a significant part of total compensation. Learn more at the SDSU Benefits Overview.

Supplemental Information
Apply by January 19, 2026 to ensure full consideration. Applications submitted after this date will be reviewed on an as-needed basis, and the position will remain open until filled.

To apply, visit https://careers.sdsu.edu/en-us/job/553710