Rail HVAC Technician

We are the Metropolitan Council, the regional government for the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area. We plan 30 years ahead for the future of the metropolitan area and provide regional transportation, wastewater, and housing services. More information about us on our website.

We are committed to supporting a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Metro Transit is one of the country's largest transit systems, employs more than 3,000 people, and provides more than 80 million rides a year through an integrated network of buses, light rail and commuter trains, as well as resources for those who carpool, vanpool, walk or bike in the Twin Cities.

How your work would contribute to our organization and the Twin Cities region:
The Rail HVAC Technician in the Traction Power Department is responsible for the installation, inspection, maintenance, repair, and diagnostic evaluation of HVAC systems supporting traction power substations and signal/communication houses. This role ensures the continuous operation and energy efficiency of mission-critical HVAC infrastructure in accordance with safety codes, regulatory standards, and operational requirements. The technician plays a key role in supporting field operations across the rail system, responding to emergencies, and ensuring equipment uptime through proactive maintenance and precise troubleshooting.

This position will establish a six-month eligible list for current and future positions.

• Ensure installations conform to manufacturer specifications, local codes, and safety regulations.
• Perform initial system testing and verification.
• Perform routine maintenance on HVAC systems, including inspection and cleaning of filters, belts, coils, and electrical components.
• Conduct preventative maintenance to reduce risk of equipment failure.
• Monitor system performance for energy efficiency.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose HVAC system malfunctions, including electrical, mechanical, and refrigerant-related issues.
• Use diagnostic tools to identify root causes of failures.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines during all repairs and calibrations.
• Operate road and rail-capable service vehicles to support field maintenance.
• Assist other departments with HVAC-related work impacting rail infrastructure.
• Respond to urgent HVAC calls during off-hours, weekends, or holidays as required.
• Ensure all HVAC work complies with safety codes, regulatory standards, and operational procedures.
• Complete service reports, repair logs, and preventative maintenance records accurately and in a timely manner.
• Maintain parts and supplies inventory for current and future needs.
• Report safety hazards and maintain work areas in compliance with agency standards.

Education and Experience:

• High School Degree or equivalent.
• 1+ years of experience in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair. 1+ years of experience as a 608 certified refrigeration tech.

• 2 year HVAC certificate in HVAC -related field, HVAC service or installation.
• EPA Universal Certification (for handling refrigerants), and additional HVAC-related certifications are a plus (e.g., NATE, OSHA).
• Ability to obtain a Special Class Boiler License within the first year of employment.

• 1+ years of HVAC experience in the maintenance field.
• Special Class C Boiler License

• Extensive knowledge of refrigeration principles and HVAC system operations.
• Understanding of Bard Wallpack HVAC systems.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting HVAC refrigeration circuits and electrical components.
• Knowledge of refrigeration safety codes and EPA requirements.
• Ability to braze and solder HVAC lines and components.
• Familiarity with analog and digital electronics related to HVAC systems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical blueprints, schematics, and service manuals.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills in diagnostic situations.
• Ability to work independently, safely, and efficiently without direct supervision.
• Competence operating HVAC service vehicles and tools, including refrigeration reclamation equipment.
• Physically capable of working in confined spaces, on ladders, and in adverse weather conditions.
• Flexible availability, including irregular shifts and emergency response capability.

• We offer the opportunity to make a difference and positively influence the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
• We encourage our employees to develop their skills through on-site training and tuition reimbursement.
• We provide a competitive salary, excellent benefits and a good work/life balance.

Union/Grade: ATU/Grade 92
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Safety Sensitive: Yes. Subject to random DOT testing

Work Environment:
This position may require working in wet or hot, humid non-weather conditions, and in high precarious places. This position may also require working in outdoor weather conditions, extreme cold, risk of electrical shock and work with explosives.

Physical Requirements:
This position may require standing, walking, talking or hearing using hands to finger, handle or feeling and reaching with hands and arms, lifting up to fifty (50) pounds. May work near moving parts or equipment, in the presence of fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and vibrations. Must have color vision. May also be required to lift more than 100 pounds with assistance.

What steps the recruitment process involves:

1. We review your minimum qualifications.
2. We run a Work Record Evaluation for current ATU employees.
3. We rate your education and experience.
4. We conduct a structured panel interview.

Once you have successfully completed the steps above, then:

If you are new to the Metropolitan Council, you must pass a drug test, and a background check which verifies education, employment, and criminal history. If you have a criminal conviction, you do not automatically fail. The Metropolitan Council considers felony, gross misdemeanor, and misdemeanor convictions on a case-by-case basis, based on whether they are related to the position and whether the candidate has demonstrated adequate rehabilitation. A driving record and/or physical may be conducted if applicable to the position.

If you are already an employee of the Metropolitan Council, you must pass a drug test (if moving from a non-safety sensitive position to a safety sensitive position), and a background check which verifies education and employment if not previously verified. A driving record and/or physical may be conducted if applicable to the position.

If the position you're applying for is safety-sensitive, is a supervisory or management position, is in the Finance, Information Services, Audit, or Human Resources departments, or has access to financial records, files/databases, cash, vouchers or transit fare cards, you must pass a pass a criminal background check. If you have a criminal conviction, you do not automatically fail. The Metropolitan Council considers felony, gross misdemeanor, and misdemeanor convictions on a case-by-case basis, based on whether they are related to the position and whether the candidate has demonstrated adequate rehabilitation.

Important: If you make a false statement or withhold information, you may be barred from job consideration.

The Metropolitan Council is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, and veteran-friendly employer. The Council is committed to a workforce that reflects the diversity of the region and strongly encourages persons of color, members of the LGBTQ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply.

If you have a disability that requires accommodation during the selection process, please email HR-OCCHealth@metc.state.mn.us.