HVAC Technician

MalaceHR is seeking an experienced HVAC Technician – Refrigerant Systems & Controls for a contract-to-hire opportunity in Tampa, Florida. This position is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, repairing, and optimizing refrigerant-based HVAC systems while also supporting general facility maintenance operations. The ideal candidate will have strong chiller and commercial HVAC experience, excellent troubleshooting skills, and a commitment to safety and operational excellence.

Position Details

• Schedule:
  • 1 Position: Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Parking: Free onsite employee parking

Candidates must successfully complete:

• Lead and Zinc blood testing
• Baseline testing completed during onboarding and repeated every three months per client requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose, service, maintain, and repair refrigerant-based HVAC systems including:
  • Chillers
  • VRF/VRV systems
  • DX units
  • Heat pumps
  • Rooftop units (RTUs)
• Perform refrigerant recovery, charging, leak detection, brazing, and compressor repairs in compliance with EPA regulations and safety standards.
• Troubleshoot HVAC electrical systems, low-voltage controls, sensors, and automation devices.
• Monitor and optimize HVAC system performance through superheat, subcooling, and other diagnostic testing methods.
• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance inspections and accurately document findings, repairs, and refrigerant usage.
• Support equipment startups, commissioning activities, and functional testing for new or upgraded systems.
• Respond to facility work orders and perform general maintenance tasks beyond HVAC-related responsibilities.
• Communicate technical findings, repair recommendations, and system concerns to facility management and maintenance teams.
• Utilize CMMS platforms to document work activities and maintain accurate maintenance records.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and company policies.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• EPA Section 608 Universal Certification (Required).
• Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on commercial HVAC experience.
• Experience servicing refrigerant-based HVAC systems.
• Strong troubleshooting skills involving compressors, refrigerant circuits, electrical systems, and mechanical components.
• Ability to read and interpret schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Technical or vocational training in HVAC or a related trade.
• Working knowledge of HVAC electrical systems, controls, and safety procedures.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience working with commercial chillers, particularly systems up to 300 tons.
• Experience servicing HVAC equipment in the 150–200 ton range.
• Experience with Building Automation Systems (BAS/BMS), including:
  • Johnson Controls
  • Trane
  • Siemens
  • Honeywell
  • Schneider Electric
• Knowledge of energy efficiency optimization and HVAC performance testing.
• Experience supporting equipment startups, commissioning, or retrofit projects.
• Additional certifications such as:
  • NATE
  • HVAC Excellence
  • OEM-specific manufacturer training
• Experience utilizing computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will be a well-rounded facilities professional who combines strong HVAC technical expertise with the flexibility to support a variety of facility maintenance responsibilities. Candidates with extensive commercial chiller experience, excellent troubleshooting abilities, and a proven track record of reliability and safety will be highly regarded.