The City of Norfolk’s Department of General Services, Facility Maintenance Department provides comprehensive building operations and maintenance services for all City of Norfolk properties, including office buildings, cultural facilities, recreational centers, and specialized environments such as the Zoo, Nauticus, and Scope Arena. The division ensures continuity of operations, occupant comfort, and the safe and efficient functioning of building systems across the city. Facility Maintenance deploys staff from Dana Street headquarters and relies on a web-based work order management system to receive, track, and close out all service requests.
The HVAC Technician is a hands-on role responsible for troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems across various city-owned facilities. The incumbent will respond to service requests, complete assigned work orders, and perform preventative maintenance tasks to ensure equipment reliability and occupant comfort. The role requires basic knowledge of refrigeration cycles, mechanical aptitude, and working familiarity with lockout/tagout safety procedures.
In addition to technical work, this position plays an important customer service role by interacting directly with City personnel, tenants, and other facility users. The HVAC Technician is expected to “close the loop” on service requests by communicating clearly with the requester, ensuring that they are aware of progress, and confirming that work has been completed to satisfaction. This requires not only technical skill but also professionalism, responsiveness, and a willingness to represent Facility Maintenance positively in the field.
The HVAC Technician will also assist contractors by granting facility access, identifying equipment, and verifying completed work but will not oversee plant operations or building automation systems. The position requires flexibility to work across diverse facilities ranging from office buildings to cultural venues, adaptability to different work environments, and the ability to build positive working relationships with coworkers, contractors, and customers alike.
- Responds promptly to service requests, diagnoses HVAC issues, and makes appropriate repairs or recommendations for replacement of system components.
- Performs preventative maintenance tasks on heating and cooling systems, including filter replacement, lubrication, inspection, and minor part replacement.
- Applies basic knowledge of the refrigeration cycle and mechanical systems to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve operational problems.
- Follows safety protocols, including lockout/tagout, while working on electrical and mechanical systems.
- Accurately documents work performed in the web-based work order management system, including time, materials used, and corrective actions taken.
- Collaborates with other Facility Maintenance personnel and contractors by providing site access, identifying equipment locations, and verifying work completion.
- Maintains tools, vehicles, and shop equipment in clean, safe, and serviceable condition.
- Supports the department’s goal of delivering reliable, customer-focused service across city buildings.
An associate’s degree or technical training in HVAC, mechanical systems, or a related trade is preferred, along
with at least two (2) years of hands-on experience performing HVAC service, maintenance, or repair work. Coursework or certification in refrigeration cycles, EPA refrigerant handling, and lockout/tagout safety procedures is desirable.
We are seeking candidates who are motivated to grow their skills, work in a team environment, and support a wide variety of municipal facilities rather than specialize in a single system. Applicants with experience gained through technical programs, apprenticeships, or smaller-scale HVAC/mechanical service environments are encouraged to apply. Equivalent combinations of education and practical experience will be considered.
- Valid Driver's License required.
- Auto CAD LT experience preferred.
Work Schedule
- Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Occasional overtime and weekend work may be required.
- Position is designated essential and will be required to report to work during City closures due to inclement weather and other emergencies.
