Stationary Engineer/HVAC Mechanic

Harper College - Palatine, IL

Full-time - Entry Level

Palatine, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The Stationary Engineer/HVAC Mechanic at Harper College is responsible for performing skilled utilities work related to the comprehensive heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems across a campus-style facility. This role involves the operation, diagnosis, inspection, repair, replacement, and preventive maintenance of various utilities and HVAC equipment, including high and low-pressure boilers, commercial furnaces and air conditioners, refrigeration machines, and various pumps and motors. The position requires a thorough understanding of building automation systems and the ability to prioritize multiple issues within a facility exceeding 1.5 million square feet. In addition to technical skills, the role demands effective communication with co-workers regarding work orders and procedures, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Documentation is a key aspect of the job, as the engineer must maintain records of refrigerants, daily paperwork, and specifications to support compliance with regulations. The position also includes responsibilities for inspecting college property for unsafe conditions, performing housekeeping duties, and managing snow and ice removal. The engineer will be part of a 24/7 on-call rotation for emergency events, requiring flexibility and readiness to respond to urgent situations. Candidates must possess an Associate's degree in Applied Science related to HVAC or equivalent trade school training, along with five years of experience in mechanical maintenance and operation of HVAC systems in large facilities. Licenses required include a valid Illinois Driver's License, an Elgin or Chicago Stationary Engineer License, and a Refrigeration License, with a Pool Operator License to be obtained within the first year of employment. This position is critical to maintaining the operational efficiency and safety of the college's facilities, ensuring a comfortable environment for students and staff.

Responsibilities

• Operate, diagnose, inspect, repair, replace, and perform preventive maintenance on HVAC equipment and utilities.
• Manage high and low-pressure boilers, commercial furnaces, refrigeration machines, and various pumps.
• Prioritize multiple issues across a 1.5 million square foot facility.
• Inform co-workers regarding procedures and work orders for compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Prepare documentation for compliance and information sharing, including records of refrigerants and daily paperwork.
• Install new parts and equipment as required.
• Inspect college property for unsafe conditions and take corrective actions as necessary.
• Maintain cleanliness and perform housekeeping duties in respective areas and equipment.
• Manage snow and ice removal duties as required.
• Participate in a 24/7 on-call rotation for emergency events.

Requirements

• Associate's degree in Applied Science in Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, and Heating or equivalent trade school training.
• Five years of experience in mechanical maintenance and operation of HVAC systems in a facility of 750,000+ sq. ft.
• Skilled knowledge in high and low-pressure boilers, refrigeration machines, and energy management/building automation systems.
• Ability to read blueprints and wiring diagrams.
• Proficient in electrical, refrigeration, and piping trades.
• Valid Illinois Driver's License.
• Elgin or Chicago Stationary Engineer License.
• Refrigeration License.
• Pool Operator License (to be obtained within one year of hire).

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Life & Disability Insurance
• Sick, Vacation, and Holiday pay
• Personal Business
• Educational Assistance: Tuition Waivers at Harper & Professional Expense