HVAC Apprentice

Job Description

Job Description

Everglades Housing Group

HVAC On-the-Job Training Program

Probationary Period: 90 Days

Purpose
 The HVAC On-the-Job Training Program is designed to provide a new Maintenance/HVAC Technician with supervised, hands-on training in the inspection, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and basic repair of HVAC systems serving Everglades Housing Group properties.

Training Responsibilities

During the 90-day training period, the employee will receive instruction and supervised experience in:

• Performing HVAC preventive maintenance and routine inspections.
• Replacing and cleaning air filters, coils, drain lines, and other serviceable components.
• Checking thermostats and basic HVAC operating controls.
• Identifying common cooling, airflow, drainage, and electrical problems.
• Using HVAC gauges, meters, hand tools, and other diagnostic equipment safely.
• Assisting with troubleshooting and repair of residential air-conditioning systems.
• Recognizing refrigerant-related issues and referring work requiring appropriate certification when required.
• Responding to resident HVAC work orders and documenting completed work.
• Maintaining clean and safe mechanical/HVAC work areas.
• Following manufacturer instructions and EHG safety procedures.
• Communicating repair needs, equipment failures, and recommended replacement needs to the Facilities Director.
• Learning EHG property locations, equipment, maintenance procedures, and work-order expectations.

90-Day Training & Evaluation

Days 1–30: Orientation and Basic Skills

• Safety procedures and proper use of tools
• HVAC system identification
• Filter changes and preventive maintenance
• Condensate drain cleaning
• Thermostat checks
• Work-order procedures
• Supervised service calls

Days 31–60: Troubleshooting and Repair

• Basic electrical troubleshooting
• Capacitor, contactor, motor, and thermostat diagnosis
• Airflow and temperature checks
• Coil and drain issues
• Identifying when specialized or licensed HVAC service is required
• Completing routine service calls with reduced supervision

Days 61–90: Independent Work & Final Evaluation

• Perform routine HVAC preventive maintenance independently
• Diagnose common HVAC problems
• Complete assigned work orders safely and efficiently
• Properly document repairs, materials, and follow-up requirements
• Demonstrate appropriate resident communication and professionalism
• Complete a final 90-day evaluation with the Facilities Director

Probationary Period

Everglades Housing Group’s employee handbook states that new and rehired employees serve an introductory period for the first 90 calendar days after the hire date. The period is used to evaluate capabilities, work habits, overall performance, and fit with the company. Significant absences may extend the introductory period, and EHG may extend it when additional evaluation time is necessary.

Successful completion of the 90-day period results in regular employment classification, but does not change the at-will employment relationship. 

Performance Expectations

At the end of the 90 days, the employee should demonstrate:

1. Safety: Follows required safety procedures and uses tools correctly.
2. Technical Skills: Performs routine HVAC preventive maintenance and basic troubleshooting.
3. Quality: Completes work correctly and minimizes repeat service calls.
4. Productivity: Completes assigned work within reasonable timeframes.
5. Work Orders: Documents work, materials, and follow-up needs accurately.
6. Reliability: Reports to work as scheduled and completes assigned responsibilities.
7. Professionalism: Communicates respectfully with residents, coworkers, supervisors, and vendors.
8. Judgment: Recognizes when an HVAC problem exceeds their training or authorization and reports/escalates it appropriately.