HVAC Operating Engineer

Location: Newark, New Jersey, USA; on-site facilities work with after-hours emergency calls as needed

Salary: $43–$50 per hour

Company

hirify.global is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools serving economically disadvantaged communities across several U.S. cities.

What you will do

• Inspect, maintain, repair, modify, and troubleshoot HVAC systems across school buildings.
• Diagnose failures, recommend corrective actions, and restore systems during emergencies.
• Maintain and service boilers, furnaces, heat pumps, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, coils, filters, belts, valves, compressors, dampers, and related equipment.
• Lead minor HVAC projects and coordinate larger mechanical construction and repair projects with vendors, consultants, and Facilities team members.
• Maintain work-order records in the automated facilities system and communicate clearly with school staff, facilities personnel, vendors, and other stakeholders.
• Support Facilities Managers and General Maintenance Workers, mentor junior staff, and respond to campus emergency calls after hours.

Requirements

• At least seven years of relevant HVAC experience, including four or more years as a head technician or equivalent progressive responsibility.
• Journeyman-level HVAC expertise, including commercial heating, hot water boilers, gas furnaces, refrigerant-driven and water-driven systems, chillers, cooling towers, and pumps.
• Advanced knowledge of BMS systems and the ability to read as-built plans, construction drawings, specifications, schematics, and technical manuals.
• Knowledge of applicable HVAC, plumbing, OSHA, building, and life-safety codes.
• Current EPA card enabling refrigerant handling, plus a valid driver’s license and vehicle.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, work independently, communicate effectively, work nights and weekends when necessary, and meet the physical requirements of the role, including lifting up to 100 pounds and working at heights or outdoors.

Nice to have

• New Jersey low-pressure black seal boiler, HVAC, or other relevant certification, training, or license.
• Experience in multifamily, school, or commercial buildings.

Culture & Benefits

• Full-time position within the New Jersey Facilities team.
• Regional holidays, sustainability days, and flexible summer PTO.
• Health, dental, vision, FSA, dependent care FSA, and HSA options.
• Financial planning, New Jersey pension program, paid leave options, and mental health and wellness support.
• Extensive training and professional development opportunities.