Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Facilities Mechanic

🎯 Role Definition

As a Facilities Mechanic, you are the backbone of our physical operations. You will be responsible for the hands-on maintenance and repair of our building's critical infrastructure, including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems. This role requires a proactive problem-solver who can independently manage daily work orders, execute a robust preventive maintenance schedule, and respond swiftly to urgent facility needs. Your work will directly impact the safety, comfort, and productivity of everyone in our facilities, making you an essential contributor to our company's success.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Maintenance Technician / Helper
Apprentice Electrician or Plumber
HVAC Technician

Advancement To:

Lead Facilities Mechanic / Senior Facilities Technician
Facilities Supervisor / Coordinator
Facilities Manager

Lateral Moves:

Building Engineer
Specialized Technician (e.g., Controls Technician, Master Electrician)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform advanced troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repairs on complex HVAC systems, including rooftop units, chillers, boilers, air handlers, and VAV systems to ensure optimal performance and climate control.
Conduct routine and preventative maintenance on all building systems to minimize downtime and extend the operational lifespan of equipment, following a detailed and dynamic PM schedule.
Respond to, prioritize, and resolve a high volume of maintenance service requests submitted through our Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) in a timely and professional manner.
Inspect, repair, and maintain electrical systems, including lighting fixtures, ballasts, circuits, panels, and emergency generators, ensuring all work complies with NEC and local codes.
Address a wide range of plumbing issues, from fixing leaks and clearing drains to replacing fixtures and performing repairs on water supply lines and sanitary systems.
Execute general building maintenance and skilled carpentry tasks, including drywall patching, painting, door and hardware repair, and minor construction to uphold facility appearance and integrity.
Monitor and operate Building Automation Systems (BAS) and Energy Management Systems (EMS) to identify inefficiencies, adjust setpoints, and optimize energy consumption across the campus.
Read, interpret, and work from technical documentation such as blueprints, schematics, O&M manuals, and wiring diagrams to accurately diagnose and repair equipment.
Safely operate and maintain a variety of powered equipment, including forklifts, scissor lifts, and boom lifts, while adhering to all safety protocols and certification requirements.
Manage a comprehensive inventory of spare parts, tools, and essential maintenance supplies, initiating purchase orders to replenish stock and prevent work delays.
Escort, oversee, and coordinate with third-party vendors and specialty contractors, ensuring their work meets our quality standards and safety regulations.
Participate actively in an on-call rotation to provide prompt after-hours and weekend support for emergency facility issues, demonstrating reliability and a calm demeanor under pressure.
Ensure strict compliance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations, including OSHA, EPA, and local fire and building codes, actively promoting a culture of safety.
Perform daily, weekly, and monthly inspections of critical life safety systems, such as fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and emergency lighting, documenting findings and coordinating necessary repairs.
Support office reconfigurations and moves by assisting with furniture assembly, modular wall adjustments, equipment relocation, and data/power connections.
Conduct regular building walk-throughs and facility audits to proactively identify potential hazards, maintenance needs, or aesthetic improvements before they escalate.
Maintain meticulous and accurate digital records of all work performed, including labor hours and materials used, within the CMMS for tracking and reporting purposes.
Calibrate and adjust building system controls, including thermostats, sensors, actuators, and valves, to maintain precise environmental conditions and system efficiency.
Perform repairs and maintenance on building exteriors, roofing, and grounds, including tasks like pressure washing, minor concrete repair, and supporting snow removal efforts.
Install, repair, and maintain building security and access control hardware, including door locks, electronic strikes, and card readers, to ensure a secure environment.

Secondary Functions

Assist in developing and refining preventive maintenance procedures and schedules to improve efficiency and equipment reliability.
Participate in workplace safety committees, providing practical insights and support for safety initiatives and training programs.
Support sustainability projects by identifying opportunities for energy, water, and waste reduction throughout the facility.
Provide excellent customer service and clear communication to internal stakeholders regarding the status of their maintenance requests and planned work.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

HVAC Systems Expertise: Deep knowledge of troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining commercial HVAC equipment, including RTUs, chillers, boilers, and VAV systems.
Electrical Proficiency: Strong ability to troubleshoot and repair electrical systems up to 480V, including lighting, circuits, and panel boards.
Plumbing Skills: Competency in repairing commercial plumbing systems, including fixture replacement, drain clearing, and leak repair.
CMMS Software: Proficiency in using Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (e.g., FMX, UpKeep, Corrigo) to manage work orders and track assets.
Building Automation Systems (BAS): Experience monitoring and making basic adjustments within BAS platforms like Johnson Controls, Siemens, or Trane.
Blueprint & Schematic Reading: Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and equipment manuals.
EPA 608 Universal Certification: Required for handling refrigerants in compliance with federal regulations.
Life Safety Systems: Familiarity with fire alarm panels, sprinkler systems, and emergency lighting.
General Carpentry & Maintenance: Skilled in drywall, painting, and general building repairs.
Power Tool & Equipment Operation: Safe and proficient use of hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.

Soft Skills

Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical and diagnostic skills to quickly identify the root cause of issues and implement effective solutions.
Time Management: Ability to prioritize a demanding workload, manage competing tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Communication: Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with colleagues, management, and vendors.
Customer Service Focus: A positive and professional attitude with a commitment to resolving issues for internal customers.
Adaptability: Flexibility to handle unexpected emergencies and changing priorities with a calm and resourceful approach.
Self-Motivation: A strong work ethic and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to work, ensuring repairs are thorough and documentation is accurate.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

Certificate or Associate's Degree from a trade school or technical college.
Relevant professional certifications (e.g., HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing license).

Relevant Fields of Study:

HVAC-R Technology
Electrical Systems Technology
Building Maintenance Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-7 years of hands-on experience in a commercial, industrial, or corporate facilities maintenance role.

Preferred: Experience in a multi-building campus environment with exposure to a wide variety of building systems and a formal preventive maintenance program.