HVAC Residential and Commercial Installer

Job Summary:
AER Systems LLC is seeking an experienced HVAC Journeyman to independently install, service, and commission HVAC systems across a mix of residential and light/commercial projects throughout San Diego County. This role covers new construction, retrofit, and replacement work — single-family homes, small commercial buildings, and multi-family properties — and requires the ability to work independently or as part of a crew with minimal supervision. 

Responsibilities:

●       Independently install split systems, packaged units, mini-splits, furnaces, air handlers, heat pumps, and rooftop commercial units per manufacturer specifications and plans.

●       Fabricate, layout, and install ductwork (sheet metal and flex) for residential and light-commercial applications.

●       Run and terminate refrigerant line sets; perform brazing, pressure testing, evacuation, and refrigerant charging in accordance with EPA 608 requirements.

●       Install and wire low-voltage controls, thermostats, and basic electrical connections for HVAC equipment.

●       Read and interpret residential and commercial mechanical plans, load calculations, and equipment schedules.

●       Perform startup, commissioning, and system checkout, including airflow verification, refrigerant charge confirmation, and combustion analysis on gas equipment.

●       Diagnose and troubleshoot system malfunctions on both new installs and existing equipment.

●       Ensure all installations comply with California Mechanical Code, Title 24 energy requirements, local jurisdiction requirements, and (on applicable multi-family work) ASHRAE 62.2 ventilation standards.

●       Coordinate with general contractors, property owners, facility managers, or homeowners to schedule work and minimize disruption.

●       Maintain a clean, organized, and safe job site in compliance with Cal/OSHA standards.

●       Accurately complete startup sheets, refrigerant tracking logs, material lists, and daily job documentation.

●       Mentor apprentices/helpers assigned to the job as needed.

●       Coordinate and prepare for local building department and utility inspections.

Qualifications:

●       Minimum 4+ years of hands-on HVAC installation experience across residential and commercial systems.

●       Strong working knowledge of refrigeration cycle, electrical/controls, and airside/ductwork systems.

●       Ability to read and work from mechanical plans, load calculations, and equipment submittals.

●       Experience with both gas furnace/split-system and heat pump equipment; light-commercial packaged/rooftop unit experience a plus.

●       Valid driver's license and reliable transportation; ability to travel between job sites daily.

●       Ability to pass a background check and drug screening (required on HUD/Section 8 and many commercial sites).

●       Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.

Required Certifications:

●       EPA 608 Universal Certification (required)

●       OSHA 10 (Cal/OSHA) required; OSHA 30 a plus

●       California HVAC-related trade certification or documented journeyman-level experience