Refrigeration/HVAC Lab Technician

What you would do:
Supports the testing of refrigeration equipment, both for industrial and commercial applications, by working closely with our Engineering Groups for research and development activities, as well as our Service Department for field related issues. The core focus of this testing facility is to prove out new, or changes to existing, screw compressor product lines before they are released for production. Technicians will be exposed to various refrigeration systems and associated auxiliary equipment utilized to test these compressors.

How you will do it:
Testing objectives are set by our various engineering groups and are outlined on a Test Request. This document includes information such as what is to be tested, how it should be tested, any special instrumentation requirements, duration of test, etc. As a technician you must be able to comprehend what is described in this document and apply that information to the task at hand.

Testing of both open drive and hermetic compressors are performed, therefore as a technician you must be familiar with making electrical connections, no voltage higher than 480VAC 3 phase, and perform motor alignments.

Connections to the compressors are typically comprised of carbon steel pipes, ranging in size from 4 inches to 16 inches in diameter. Cranes and other lifting devices are utilized to manipulate pipework. Small peripheral connections are made with either hose or rigid tubing.

Instrumentation is a key component to the process. A few of the types of measurements taken are pressure, temperature, flow, power, and vibration. Several forms of calibrations are performed in-house. As a technician you will be required to become familiar with the various forms of instrumentation and the equipment utilized to calibrate.

Systems will need to be pressure tested, vacuum pulled and then charged with refrigerant. In this role you will be required to pressurize systems per our internal guidelines, understand the importance of and express a firm understanding of proper vacuum techniques and thresholds, and be able to safely handle and transfer various refrigerants while complying with company and regulatory standards.

During the testing process this is where a technician will be required to fully understand how the systems work and be able to manipulate them to achieve the desired conditions set forth by engineering. Data collected must meet Test Lab Standards prior to being passed along.

While these topics represent the core of what a technician is required to perform, other aspects include but are not limited to:

• Material compatibility Testing
• Component testing: valves, transmitters, VFD’s, etc.
• Compressor prototype assembly
• System Maintenance
• Controls layout and implementation

On the job training will be provided, therefore not all skillsets related to the various roles and responsibilities are required in advance.

What we look for:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required:

• Firm understanding of the refrigeration cycle and its components.
• Well versed in AC and DC circuitry.
• Mechanically inclined
• Self-driven individual
• Maintains a positive attitude and works well with others

• EPA 608 Certificate preferred.

Education & Experience:
Requires an associate’s degree from college or technical school; or two (2) to five (5) years related experience and/or training in refrigeration; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Technology Requirements:
Proficiency in Microsoft Suite Applications (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint), as well as Internet software and Email are required.

Physical Requirements
The employee is occasionally required to lift no more than 50 pounds.

What we offer

• Competitive pay

• Paid vacation/holidays/sick time - 10 days of vacation, 10 paid holidays, and five sick days each year

• Comprehensive benefits package including 401(K) with match as well as insurance coverage that starts on day one (medical, dental, and vision care)

• Encouraging and collaborative team environment

• Dedication to safety through our Zero Harm policy

HIRING HOURLY RANGE : $23.60 - $32.42 (Hourly rate to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, location and alignment with market data.) This position includes a competitive benefits package. For details, please visit the About Us tab on the Johnson Controls Careers site at