Lead Mechanic – Commercial HVAC

The Commercial HVAC Lead Mechanic performs a variety of tasks related to the installation, service, troubleshooting, and maintenance of HVAC systems and components on commercial construction sites. This position leads field crews, coordinates jobsite activities, ensures quality workmanship, and maintains compliance with safety and building code requirements.

Responsibilities

Typical Work Activities

Unit Installation

• Receive, uncrate, and position HVAC equipment at commercial jobsites.

• Use mechanical equipment such as forklifts, cranes, scissor lifts, and boom lifts, as well as manual methods, to safely position equipment.

• Assist with installation, connection, and startup of commercial HVAC equipment.

Duct Installation

• Install metal and flexible HVAC ductwork in overhead applications.

• Install hangers by drilling or fastening into ceilings and structural surfaces.

• Secure ductwork using appropriate hangers, connectors, and installation methods.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise Projects: Lead field crews of mechanics, apprentices, helpers, and subcontractors on commercial job sites while managing schedules, materials, and workflow.

• Maintain Commercial Equipment: Troubleshoot, repair, service, and maintain chillers, boilers, rooftop units (RTUs), air handling units (AHUs), variable air volume (VAV) boxes, and other commercial HVAC equipment.

• Manage Automation Systems: Program, diagnose, troubleshoot, and interface with Building Automation Systems (BAS) and Energy Management Systems (EMS).

• Read Blueprints: Interpret mechanical schematics, electrical diagrams, architectural blueprints, piping layouts, and other construction documents.

• Oversee Safety & Quality: Enforce jobsite safety requirements and verify that work is completed according to applicable commercial building codes, project specifications, and quality standards.

• Communicate with Customers and General Contractors: Maintain professional communication with general contractors, customers, project managers, and other trades.

• Manage Crew Performance: Supervise mechanics, apprentices, helpers, and subcontractors while providing direction and support.

• Work Independently: Complete assigned work with minimal direct supervision while maintaining productivity and quality standards.

• Maintain Jobsite Standards: Keep work areas clean, organized, safe, and professional.

• Support Team Development: Provide guidance and training to less-experienced team members and maintain a teachable, service-oriented approach.

Requirements & Qualifications

Experience

• 5–10+ years of commercial HVAC field experience.

• Minimum of 2 years in a foreman, lead, or supervisory role preferred.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of commercial HVAC systems and equipment.

• Experience with 3-phase electrical systems.

• Experience with hydronic piping systems.

• Knowledge of heavy-tonnage refrigeration systems.

• Experience with complex air balancing.

• Ability to troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, refrigeration, and controls-related issues.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, piping layouts, and electrical diagrams.

• Experience with BAS and EMS systems preferred.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to work on rooftops and in various commercial construction environments.

• Ability to safely operate or work from scissor lifts and boom lifts.

• Ability to lift and carry commercial HVAC components weighing up to 75+ pounds.

• Ability to work in varying weather and jobsite conditions.

• Ability to follow all applicable safety procedures and requirements.

Additional Requirements

• Communicate regularly with general contractors and customers.

• Supervise crews, helpers, and subcontractors.

• Work independently without direct supervision.

• Read, review, and work from blueprints and construction documents.

• Maintain a teachable, service-oriented mindset.

• Demonstrate strong attention to detail.

• Take responsibility for personal safety and the safety of other employees.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and professional jobsite.

Licenses & Certifications

• Valid driver's license with a good driving record.

• EPA Section 608 Universal Certification required.

• Commercial driver's license endorsement highly preferred.