Lead HVAC and Building Systems Technician at Proviso Township High Schools in Forest Park, IL

Job description

Lead HVAC and Building Systems Technician Division / Department: Custodial and Maintenance Classification (FLSA): Full-time, Non-Exempt Position Group: Maintenance Grade Level (per CBA): Grade VI Full-Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0 Anticipated Work Year & Hours*: 260 Days (12 � Month) Union Membership: Proviso Custodial and Maintenance Union SEIU Local 73, CTW Reports to: Custodial and Maintenance Building Lead; Director of Buildings and Grounds Position Summary: The Lead HVAC / Building Systems Technician oversees the operation, maintenance, and repair of all district heating, ventilation, air conditioning, steam, gas-fired, and mechanical systems. This role provides technical leadership, coordinates workflow for HVAC staff, ensures system reliability and energy efficiency, and maintains compliance with district, state, and regulatory standards. The Lead Technician supports a safe, healthy, and comfortable learning environment for the facilities. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Inspect, diagnose, and repair HVAC and mechanical equipment, including RTUs, DOAS units, boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, VAV boxes, exhaust fans, and unit heaters. • Operate, monitor, optimize, and adjust Building Automation Systems (BAS) for temperature, humidity, ventilation, and scheduling across multiple district buildings. • Lead campus wide preventive maintenance programs and assign tasks to HVAC technicians to ensure efficient, reliable system operation. • Maintain and service gas-fired and steam systems, including steam traps, regulators, condensate return systems, and water treatment. • Troubleshoot advanced electrical and mechanical components such as motors, VFDs, controls, contactors, relays, sensors, belts, and bearings. • Monitor and maintain chilled and condenser water systems, ensuring proper water chemistry and equipment performance. • Oversee operation and maintenance of campus swimming pool heating, filtration, and chemical systems (if applicable). • Ensure air distribution systems provide adequate ventilation and indoor air quality for classrooms and common areas. • Coordinate management of building clocks, scheduling, and mechanical room access control. • Enter, review, assign, and close work orders in School Dude; ensure accurate documentation by HVAC staff. • Respond to and prioritize service calls, alarms, equipment failures, and comfort concerns. • Maintain and review maintenance logs, service records, and required compliance documentation. • Enforce district safety procedures, including lockout/tagout, confined space, fall protection, and mechanical room safety. • Provide guidance, training, and technical support to HVAC technicians; coordinate work with electricians, plumbers, custodial teams, and contractors. • Assist in planning and execution of capital projects, equipment upgrades, and system replacements. • Support seasonal operations such as heating transitions, cooling-season startup, and snow removal as needed. • Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by the administration.* Qualifications: • High school diploma or GED required; HVAC technical school or trade certification preferred. • Minimum 5�7 years of experience in commercial or institutional HVAC maintenance, including supervisory or lead experience. • Valid EPA Section 608 refrigerant certification. • Extensive knowledge of BAS systems, HVAC control strategies, mechanical drawings, and system schematics. • Strong ability to troubleshoot complex electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems. • Effective leadership, communication, and organizational skills. • Physical ability to lift 50 lbs., climb ladders, and work in confined spaces or on rooftops. Preferred Qualifications: • State or municipal HVAC license. (federal) • Experience with central plant operations (chillers, boilers, cooling towers). &bu