The Mid-Level HVAC/ECS Technician is responsible for the setup, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of aircraft cabin and laboratory test rigs used for validating Environmental Control System (ECS) and HVAC components. This hands-on role requires technical expertise in pneumatic, thermal, and electrical systems to ensure successful test execution in support of product development, certification, and performance validation. The technician works with engineering and test teams to ensure test accuracy, data quality, and operational safety.
Key Responsibilities:
Configure and operate ECS/HVAC test rigs including airflow systems, pressure regulators, heating/cooling elements, and humidification units
Install and calibrate sensors such as thermocouples, RTDs, pressure transducers, and flow meters
Interpret test procedures, mechanical drawings, and instrumentation layouts to execute test setups
Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to thermal, pneumatic, electrical, or instrumentation systems
Monitor and record test parameters (temperature, pressure, flow, humidity) during runs and flag anomalies
Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on test rigs and associated infrastructure
Work closely with test engineers to implement changes to setups, assist in root cause investigations, and support design iterations
Ensure all test operations follow safety protocols, regulatory standards, and internal quality procedures
Assist in training junior technicians and contribute to continuous improvement of lab practices
Document test setups, results, anomalies, and corrective actions using standard reporting formats
Key Focus Areas:
HVAC/ECS component and system-level testing in lab or cabin mock-up environments
Sensor installation, calibration, and test instrumentation operation
Rig troubleshooting and operational support for engineering test campaigns
Technical documentation and cross-functional collaboration
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Associate degree or technical diploma in Mechanical Technology, HVAC Systems, Aerospace Systems, or related field (required)
Additional training or certifications in ECS, controls, or fluid systems is a plus
Experience:
3–6 years of experience supporting ECS, HVAC, or aerospace test rigs in a lab, manufacturing, or flight test environment
Demonstrated experience working with pressurized air systems, ducting, environmental chambers, or temperature control systems
Familiarity with DO-160, MIL-STD-810, or similar aerospace/environmental test standards is a plus
Technical Skills:
Proficient with mechanical assembly, pneumatic systems, thermal control loops, and instrumentation
Experience with data acquisition systems (e.g., LabVIEW, Dewesoft, HBM) and signal validation
Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, wiring diagrams, and instrumentation schematics
Comfortable using torque tools, calibration instruments, and safety-critical rigging procedures
Soft Skills:
Detail-oriented with strong diagnostic and documentation skills
Good communication and collaboration abilities across engineering and operations teams
Safety-focused, with a proactive and methodical approach to problem-solving
Capable of managing priorities and working under time-sensitive test schedules