The Journey-Level HVAC/Refrigeration Technician performs skilled work in the operation, inspection, troubleshooting, repair, and preventive maintenance of commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. This position is responsible for supporting safe, reliable, and efficient operation of building systems through high-quality service and maintenance work. This role requires a strong background in commercial HVAC/R service, refrigeration systems, and maintenance practices.
Apply By Date: 08/01/2026 by 11:59PM
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
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Environmental Protection Agency Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Certification Type I, II, III, or Universal
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Must possess an Environmental Protection Agency Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Certification Type Universal card.
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Must posses a certificate of completion from a recognized five year union apprenticeship program, University apprenticeship program, accredited trade school.
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Required to hold a valid California driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program
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High school diploma and/or relevant experience and completion from a recognized apprenticeship program.
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Minimum of five years of experience in commercial HVAC/R (with 2 years dedicated to commercial refrigeration service work) refrigeration systems with a strong focus on service, maintenance, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance.
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Experience in refrigeration pipe fitting and demonstrated knowledge of proper refrigeration piping practices and system installation standards.
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Demonstrated journey-level skill and knowledge in the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and preventive maintenance of commercial HVAC/R, refrigeration, ventilation, and related mechanical systems and infrastructure.
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Ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, technical manuals, and related documentation, while effectively using HVAC/R diagnostic tools and testing equipment.
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Strong communication, customer service, strong multitasking prioritizing ability, and organizational skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Preferred Qualifications
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Knowledge and skill in the use of HVAC/R diagnostic tools, testing equipment, computers, and technical resources to analyze, troubleshoot, and interpret mechanical systems, technical specifications, blueprints, and operational data.
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Knowledge of current building codes, safety practices, approved safety devices, and industry standards related to HVAC/R installation, maintenance, and repair.
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Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to provide clear reports, instructions, and high-quality customer service.
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Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to effectively manage work assignments in institutional, commercial, industrial, or multi-site environments.
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Experience with building automation systems, energy management systems, advanced controls, energy-efficient system optimization, technical certifications/licensure, and mentoring or supporting less experienced technicians.
Key Responsibilities
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50% - Preventative Maintenance
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20% - Air Conditioning Systems, Heat Pumps, Gas Heaters
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15% - Refrigeration Systems
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10% - Building Cooling Chillers, Absorption, Centrifugal & Screw
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5% - Ventilation and Exhaust Systems
Department Overview
The Mechanical HVAC Shop's primary focus is to provide twenty four hour emergency service in support of research projects with an emphasis on the protection of animal life. The responsibility of the shop is to service and maintain the classroom and building air conditioning, heating systems and ventilation systems. These systems include Centrifugal, and Screw Chillers. The shop also provides service and maintenance on a wide range of equipment that includes fume hoods, gas fired and electric heaters, computer room and direct expansion air conditioners, heat pumps, process chillers, constant temperature growth chambers, walk in freezers and coolers, specialized refrigerated lab equipment, cooling towers and ice machines.
POSITION INFORMATION
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Salary or Pay Range: $44.12/hr. - $52.72/hr.
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Salary Frequency: Bi-weekly
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Salary Grade: STEPS
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UC Job Title: REFRIGERATION MECH
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UC Job Code: 008227
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Appointment Type: Staff: Career
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Percentage of Time: 100%
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Shift (Work Schedule): M-F 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
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Location: Davis
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Union Representation: K3-Skilled Trades
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Benefits Eligible: Yes
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This position is 100% on-site
Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.
If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html
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High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
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UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
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Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
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Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
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Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
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Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
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Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
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WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
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On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
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Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
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Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
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Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here
Physical Demands
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Standing - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
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Walking - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
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Sitting - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
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Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
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Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
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Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
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Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
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Bending/Stooping - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Squatting/Kneeling - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Twisting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
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Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Environmental Demands
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Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Loud noise levels - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
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Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
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Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Mental Demands
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Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
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Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
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Numerical skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
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Constant Interaction - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
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Customer/Patient Contact - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
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Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Position will participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Pull Notice System. This position is subject to Medical Surveillance procedures and review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy. This position is subject to completion of a Pre-Placement Medical Exam provided by Employee Health Services, at no charge to the applicant. Required to wear protective clothing and respirator in circumstances that require personal protection from infectious disease. Valid CA driver's license required. This position may, at times, require the individual to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present. Specific hazards include but are not limited to: asbestos, PCB's radioactive materials, industrial and laboratory chemicals, fuels, solvents, infectious materials and wastes, biological hazards and other materials labeled hazardous. This position may be required to work a non-standard work schedule that may include nights, weekends, or alternative schedules such as 80 hours in 8 or 9 shifts instead of 10. Vacation usage by the employee may be restricted during peak workload periods as required to meet the needs of the campus. This position supports critical campus functions operating 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. To assure adequate support of these functions the employee may be required to participate in an 'on call' program to facilitate timely return of staff to the campus as required to meet critical needs. This on call program may include requirements for the employee to inform the University how they can be reached during non-working hours, to carry University provided radios, cell phones, pagers or other telecommunications equipment which would facilitate communication between the campus and employee during non-work hours, or to accept rotating on-call responsibility which could periodically restrict the off-campus movements of the employee. If the employee's non-working hour movements are restricted by the University, employees will be compensated for their 'On-Call' time according to the established on call rates. If actually called into work, the employee will be compensated according to the established campus policies. Employees may also be required to return after an assigned shift due to business necessity or emergencies. Compensation for 'Call-Back' will be in accordance with campus policies.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
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This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
