Job Description

Job Description:
Facilities Planning and Management at Iowa State University is seeking qualified candidates for the Environmental Systems Mechanic II position. Facilities Planning and Management (FPM) is an organization that is dedicated to the maintenance and enhancement of Iowa State University, one of the nation’s leading educational and agricultural institutes. But more importantly, FPM is dedicated to their employees and enhancing the lives of each team member through opportunities both professionally and personally. FPM is one of the largest departments on campus and currently employs over 400 full-time employees and students combined.

Under general supervision, applies knowledge, skills and abilities to install, repair, replace and maintain components of environmental systems in the areas of refrigeration, temperature control, and heating and support systems. Utilizes computerized building environmental automation systems to collect mechanical system data to ensure system reliability. Demonstrates the qualifications, training, experience, and advanced technical knowledge to be responsible for the coordination and accomplishment of maintenance, operations and modifications. Performs the duties peculiar to, and normally required in, the trade of environmental systems/HVAC technician, following recognized procedures and techniques for such work. Utilizes special tools, equipment, and processes to collect information, perform initial diagnostics, and respond to data through established guidelines for preventive and predictive maintenance to ensure equipment reliability.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience performing basic HVAC technician tasks
Experience servicing complex environmental systems equipment like autoclaves and fume hoods
Experience interpreting advanced environmental systems schematics and drawings
Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

• Performs all duties listed under Environmental Systems Mechanic I.
• Installs and maintains environmental systems equipment and components such as air conditioning equipment, chillers, condensers, pumps, fume hoods, autoclaves, environmental chambers, scientific equipment, cascade cooling units, process water systems, compressors and other pneumatic and computerized controls. Installs and maintains cooling tower equipment, plate-frame heat exchangers, cooling water treatment equipment, heating systems (all fuel types) to include boilers, unit heaters, furnaces, radiant heating, heat pump systems (geothermal and air source), variable frequency drives, and other emerging technology equipment/systems.
• Tests and evaluates performance of systems using specialized equipment, repairs or replaces defective valves, thermostats, sensor and other parts in both pneumatic and computerized building environmental automation systems.
• Operates computerized building environmental automation systems that control heating and cooling systems.
• Performs continuous commissioning and retro commissioning of various types of environmental equipment to assure these systems are meeting energy optimization efficiency goals, operating to desired baselines, and are meeting the expectations of the customer.
• Utilizes energy monitoring devices and test equipment to establish predictive type maintenance repairs that extend the life of systems and eliminate out of service conditions.
• Provides functional guidance and training to apprentices, replacements, students and other personnel as required.
• Other duties as assigned by appropriate department or administrative personnel.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the principles of operations, methods, materials, and tools utilized in the installation, troubleshooting, maintenance, calibration and repair of environmental systems.
• Ability to properly braze refrigeration tubing and connections.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, National Fire Prevention Association, National Fire Code, the Environmental Protection Agency, etc.
• Knowledge, skill and ability to evaluate and recommend equipment for either installation, repair, or replacement and determine the amount of time and materials necessary to accomplish the task with least expense and downtime of equipment.
• Knowledge of computerized building environmental automation systems and ability to collect data for mechanical system performance.
• Skill in the proper use and care of hand and power tools and test equipment.
• Knowledge of proper bending and lifting techniques.
• Ability to work in areas of high heat, dust and noise and in confined spaces or on a ladder.
• Ability to interpret blueprints, diagrams and equipment specifications.
• Ability to work independently during the normal workday and in an on-call status.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to work in all types of environmental conditions or in areas where there is exposure to excessive noise, dirt, and fumes and at elevated heights from ladders, scaffolds, or hydraulic lifts.
• Ability to work independently during normal work hours and after hours.
• Knowledgeable of the operation and maintenance of variable frequency drives.
• Knowledge of chilled water systems and maintenance requirements.


Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.