Foreman - Commercial HVAC

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.