HVAC Jobs in California
HVAC jobs in California are concentrated in Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, and San Diego, where commercial construction, large residential developments, and aging infrastructure create steady demand for technicians across every level from apprentice to senior commercial specialist. Employers like ACCO Brands, Johnson Controls, and Comfort Systems USA maintain active hiring pipelines throughout the state, particularly for professionals skilled in commercial refrigeration, building automation systems, and energy-efficient HVAC design. California's strict Title 24 energy codes make technicians with green building and HVAC efficiency expertise especially sought after. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.
Job Summary
Under minimum supervision from the Manager of Maintenance Management, the HVAC Supervisor oversees the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning maintenance activities for the Caltech campus.
This position is classified as Essential Reporting. An employee designated as Essential Reporting has essential job skills that are needed for response and recovery and is expected to report to campus as soon as possible.
Essential Job Duties
- Utilize Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) program software to create process and complete planned and corrective maintenance work orders.
- Increase customer satisfaction through frequent communication regarding maintenance and repair work for the relevant area(s).
- Perform field inspections to review work progress and resolve work conflicts.
- Ensure compliance with applicable building codes and the Caltech Design Guidelines.
- Manage Caltech's resources for optimum productivity.
- Manage the HVAC shop's budgets and report on financial performance.
- Professionally develop and mentor the department of licensed heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration technicians.
- Respond to trouble calls and emergency conditions.
- Analyze routine work requests for timely execution and completion.
- Enforce adherence to campus fire, life safety, confined space, lock out and tag out procedures.
- Manage and maintain all safety inspections, tests, maintenance, and repairs.
- Keep current with the latest equipment technology, regulations, and engineering advances to enhance operations.
- Lead and evaluate direct reports for performance, training, work schedules, and merit-based salary adjustments.
- Assist and supervise third party contractors and vendors awarded campus work.
- Maintain positive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders to ensure upkeep of current and factual project information.
- Prioritize, plan, assign, coordinate and direct the work of HVAC mechanics and crew leaders.
- Professionally communicate with key stakeholders at all levels of the campus community.
- Deliver accurate and timely written and oral reports.
- Perform other duties as required.
Basic Qualifications
- High School graduate or equivalent.
- 8+ year's journeyman level HVAC experience with all test instruments and tools of the trade.
- 3+ years supervisory experience leading HVAC Mechanics at the journeyman level on a large campus or facility construction site with operation and maintenance of HVAC equipment.
- Demonstrated ability to correctly and skillfully operate the various tools and equipment of the HVAC trade (i.e., test lamps, ammeters, voltmeters, torches, refrigerant reclamation, etc.)
- Proven knowledge of building codes, regulatory requirements, licensing, and inspections.
- Must be reliable, responsible, and work well as a team member.
- Ability to read and interpret technical language in wiring diagrams, and accurately follow written and verbal instructions.
- Ability to modify and/or adapt designs, procedures, or methods to make necessary modifications.
- Communicate professionally with members at all levels of the Caltech community.
- Maintain effective working relationships.
- Proficiency with MS Office Suite, MS Project, E-Builder and Outlook.
- Ability to work independently and follow through on assignments.
- Must be able to estimate material and labor requirements to accomplish tasks.
- Ability to work various shifts as well as overtime and weekends.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license throughout the course of employment.
- Must be eligible and be able to adhere to the Institute's Motor Vehicle policy.
- Demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds on a daily basis, bend in all directions, climb stairs and ladders, squeeze with arms and hands, properly operate machinery, and work outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions.
- Must be able to distinguish between colors and work in confined spaces.
Preferred Qualifications
- BS Degree in an appropriate construction or maintenance related technical or engineering field from an accredited college or university, or equivalent on-the-job training and experience.
- Proficiency with Asset Works and Kronos or similar preventive maintenance and timekeeping software is a plus.
Required Documents
- Resume.
Hiring Range
$121,100 - $140,200 Per Year
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.
As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.
Disability Accommodations
Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position.
If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.
Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.
See All 224+ HVAC Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find HVAC JobsHVAC Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
HVAC Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Blue Mountain Construction Services10

- Nextech7

- Carrier5

- Rowland Air5R
- BMI MECHANICAL4

Top Industries Hiring
- Staffing & Recruiting
- Construction & Real Estate
- Manufacturing
- Distribution & Wholesale
- Healthcare & Medical Services
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in HVAC jobs across California.
- Active California EPA Section 608 certification and HVAC contractor license required
- Journeyman-level experience with commercial or residential HVAC installation and repair
- Working knowledge of California Title 24 energy efficiency standards and building codes
- Proficiency reading blueprints, schematics, and mechanical system drawings
- Valid California driver's license and ability to travel to multiple job sites
- Experience with building automation systems or HVAC controls preferred
HVAC Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a hvac in California?
To work as an hvac technician in California, you must obtain EPA Section 608 certification for refrigerant handling and complete a state-approved apprenticeship through the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards or a trade school program. California contractors must hold a C-20 HVAC license issued by the Contractors State License Board. Most employers require completion of a four or five year apprenticeship through programs affiliated with union locals like UA Local 250 or non-union trade groups before advancement to journeyman status.
Which companies hire hvacs in California?
Companies currently hiring hvacs in California include Blue Mountain Construction Services, Nextech, and Carrier, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. California's large commercial real estate sector and strict energy codes keep demand from major mechanical contractors, facilities management firms, and utilities especially strong year-round.
Which California cities have the most hvac jobs?
San Jose, San Diego, and Los Angeles account for the highest concentration of hvac openings in California. Los Angeles and the surrounding region drive volume through large commercial and multifamily construction, while the Bay Area's tech campuses and data centers generate ongoing demand for building systems specialists, and San Diego's strong military installation and healthcare base keeps contractors busy across service and installation work.
Are there remote hvac jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare. HVAC is a hands-on trade requiring physical presence at job sites for installation, diagnosis, and repair, so remote work is not common. About 3% of hvac openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, and those roles typically involve HVAC design, energy consulting, or building automation system programming rather than field service work.
How can I get hired as a hvac in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying for a registered apprenticeship through the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards, which connects applicants with union-affiliated programs at locals like UA Local 761 or SMART Sheet Metal Workers. Large mechanical contractors such as Southland Industries and ACCO Brands run structured apprentice programs where you earn while you learn. Candidates with a certificate from a California community college HVAC program, EPA Section 608 certification, or prior electrical or plumbing experience have a clear edge when applying for helper or pre-apprentice roles.
Where can I find and apply to hvac jobs in California?
You can find and apply to hvac jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers actively hiring across the state. Search the listings to find roles that match your experience level, specialty, and preferred location, then apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 224+ HVAC Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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