Power the Future of HVAC Innovation as a Set Up Technician
Location: Charlotte, NC Payrate: $27.46 Schedule: Must be flexible to work 1st 2nd or 3rd shift
Are you an experienced HVAC professional with hands-on chiller expertise and a passion for solving complex technical challenges? PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leading HVAC manufacturing company to hire a dependable and highly skilled Set Up Technician to support advanced engineering laboratory operations.
In this role, you’ll play a critical part in testing, operating, and optimizing commercial chiller systems that drive innovation across the HVAC industry. Your expertise will directly support engineering development, product performance, and lab efficiency in a collaborative, safety-focused environment.
What You’ll Do
As a Set Up Technician, you’ll be responsible for executing chiller testing and supporting day-to-day laboratory operations in both water-cooled and air-cooled environments.
Key Responsibilities
Chiller Test Operations & Technical Support
Set up and execute chiller testing in engineering laboratory environments
Operate, inspect, troubleshoot, and maintain chillers, test setups, and related equipment
Support efficient chiller operation through loop tuning, calibration, and test cycle optimization
Perform technical tasks supporting engineering project planning and execution
Work with electrical systems, including 460-3-60 machinery, HVAC systems, refrigerant handling, and EPA compliance
Select, connect, and troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and refrigeration systems on manufactured equipment
Read and interpret electrical and refrigeration schematics
Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to communicate results, issues, and solutions
Coach and support team members on testing techniques and troubleshooting processes
Lab Safety, Maintenance & Reliability
Champion workplace safety, 5S practices, and Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) policies
Support lab uptime by identifying equipment issues and reporting instrument failures
Assist with preventive maintenance initiatives to improve operational reliability
Reporting & Process Improvement
Collect, document, and report testing status, results, and operational issues
Apply and teach measurement techniques, troubleshooting methods, and test reporting practices
Proactively resolve testing challenges by working closely with engineering and development teams
Required Qualifications
Technical/Business School Certificate, High School Diploma/GED, or Skilled Trades Apprenticeship
Minimum 5 years of experience in HVAC/chiller operations or laboratory environments supporting mechanical/electrical systems
Proven ability to independently operate, troubleshoot, and optimize commercial chiller systems
Strong understanding of HVAC operations, refrigerant handling, and electrical systems
Experience with hand tools, pneumatic tools, precision measuring instruments, and advanced shop mathematics
Ability to operate equipment such as cordless drills, impact wrenches, cranes, and forklifts
Strong communication, troubleshooting, and collaboration skills
Important Candidate Requirements
Please note: At minimum, residential HVAC experience is required. Experience with commercial-level chiller systems and controls is strongly preferred.
To be considered for this role, candidates must have hands-on chiller experience, including:
Direct experience operating and troubleshooting water-cooled and/or air-cooled chillers
Experience working with chiller control systems such as Trane, York, Daikin, or similar platforms
Understanding of closed-loop control systems, loop tuning, and system stability
Ability to read and interpret complex electrical and refrigeration schematics
Experience with 460-3-60 electrical equipment, VFDs, pumps, and boilers
Strong electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skills
Preferred Qualifications
EPA Certification
Experience supporting engineering or product development laboratory environments
Prior experience mentoring or coaching technical teams
Advanced knowledge of preventive maintenance systems and laboratory safety protocols
Work Environment
This is a hands-on role in an active engineering laboratory setting requiring:
Frequent standing, climbing ladders, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
Exposure to moving mechanical equipment, refrigerants, compressed gases, and varying temperatures
Occasional evening or weekend support for critical maintenance schedules
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you’re a skilled HVAC or chiller technician looking for a challenging opportunity where your expertise truly matters, we want to hear from you.
Apply today and take the next step in your career with PDS Tech Commercial.
Pay Details: $27.46 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
- The California Fair Chance Act
- Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
- Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
- San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
