HVAC Mechanic Lead

Location: Colorado Springs, CO (United States Air Force Acacemy)

Type: Non-Exempt

Work Schedule: Full Time, Day Shift

Compensation: $49.16 - $49.16/hourly

Deadline: December 31, 2025

Benefits: Tessera is proud to offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package to our eligible part-time and full-time employees.

Full-Time benefits of an HVAC Mechanic Lead at Tessera include:

Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) retirement plan, Life & Short-Term Disability Insurance$8.78/hr Health and Welfare BenefitFlexible Spending Accounts for both medical and dependent care11 paid federal holidays, accrual of 22 paid days of vacation at the start of employment, paid sick leavePotential shared earning bonusTuition assistance is available after 1 year of employment and potential scholarships for qualified dependentsProfessional development, certifications, and training opportunitiesVerizon wireless discountEmployee Assistance Program (EAP), and an engaging wellness programPublic Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for full-time employees

Tessera is dedicated to “Creating Opportunities for People with Disabilities” by hiring and supporting individuals with disabilities as well as veterans with disabilities. We take pride in our purpose-driven culture, our core values - Inclusion, Partnerships, Integrity - and our commitment to providing a safe and respectful work environment to our employees.

Tessera is seeking a dedicated, highly skilled, and solution-driven HVAC Mechanic Lead to support critical operations at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA). This role calls for a professional who takes pride in precision work, thrives on complex problem-solving, and consistently upholds the highest standards of safety and quality. As a trusted technical expert, you’ll lead field execution of advanced HVAC/R tasks, perform detailed inspections, and share your knowledge to elevate team performance. Your expertise keeps vital systems running—and at Tessera, your commitment and craftsmanship are truly valued.

Typical duties include but are not limited to:

Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on HVAC/R systems including chillers (scroll, screw, reciprocating, centrifugal), boilers (steam and hot water), air handlers, and exhaust systemsDiagnose and repair faults in EMCS-integrated systems, thermostats, sensors, and control panelsHandle refrigerants in compliance with EPA regulations; perform leak detection, recovery, and chargingConduct seasonal overhauls and recurring maintenance on HVAC/R equipmentInstall and repair ductwork, piping, motors, compressors, and electrical componentsWork with natural gas and propane systems, including burners and fuel controlsRead and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematics, and technical manualsUse test instruments and diagnostic tools to verify system performance and troubleshoot issuesMaintain documentation of work performed using CMMS and ensure compliance with Air Force and federal codesRespond to emergency service calls and perform repairs with minimal supervisionCollaborate with other trades and base personnel to coordinate repairs and system upgradesMaintain accountability for tools, equipment, and safety complianceLead field execution of complex repairs and installations, ensuring technical accuracy and safety complianceInspect completed work for adherence to specifications, codes, and quality standardsSupport training and onboarding of junior HVAC personnel by sharing technical knowledge and best practicesServe as a technical resource for resolving escalated service issues and coordinating multi-system repairs

Qualifications: 

Minimum 5 years of journeyman-level experience in commercial/industrial HVAC/R systemsEPA Section 608 Universal CertificationAdvanced knowledge of HVAC/R system components and controlsSkilled in brazing, soldering, pipefitting, and electrical troubleshootingProficient in using diagnostic tools, meters, and gaugesFamiliarity with EMCS and programmable logic controllersStrong understanding of safety protocols including lockout/tagout and PPE usageAbility to inspect work for quality and complianceCapable of guiding technical execution and sharing expertise with peers

Physical Requirements:

Employees must have the ability to perform the following physical demands for extended periods of time with or without assistance. The physical demands of this position may be reasonably accommodated for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions on a case-by-case basis. 

May be required to reach, kneel, walk, stand, and use repetitive motion for several hours at a time based on position duties.Work may require repetitive motion, reaching, lifting, kneeling, and walking. Standing or sitting for several hours at a time, climbing in and out of a vehicle, and up and down stairs may also be required.Must have the perseverance to work effectively under pressure for extended periods of time.

Requirements:

A valid state driver’s license is required with the ability to obtain and maintain coverage by Tessera’s insurance.Access to a federal military installation requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative, such as a U.S. passport or military ID, in accordance with the REAL ID Act. Please visit this website for more information: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.Must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearances and installation access. A background check and E-Verify will be conducted for this position.

Union Affiliation:

This position is represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Local 113, and the United Association (UA), Local 58.

To Apply: Visit our website at www.tessera.org to complete an application.

Current Employees: need to log into their Workday to apply through the Jobs Hub. Please reach out to your Recruiter if you need assistance.

Tessera is a national non-profit, government contractor that is dedicated to “Creating Opportunities for People with Disabilities” through hiring and supporting individuals with disabilities and veterans with disabilities. We take pride in our mission-focused culture, our Core Values, Diversity, Partnership, Commitment, Integrity, and Quality, and our dedication to providing a safe and respectful work environment to our employees.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Tessera is here to help you with the recruitment process. 

If you require an accommodation or support, please contact us at

(360) 475-0756 ext. 349, or email recruiting@tessera.org.

Tessera is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled - Tessera participates in E-Verify