Controls Apprentice Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview

The HVAC Journeyman is a key, customer-facing role at Westside Mechanical Services (WMS), with a primary focus on commercial HVAC systems. You are the “tip of the spear” in delivering high-quality service, maintenance, and installation work on commercial and light-industrial equipment. Your professionalism, technical skill, and attention to detail directly shape the customer experience and the WMS reputation.

This is a billable, revenue-producing position. HVAC Journeymen are expected to work independently on commercial jobsites, execute work efficiently, and uphold WMS standards for safety, quality, documentation, and customer care.

Technicians who demonstrate strong commercial system knowledge, a willingness to learn, and leadership ability will have opportunities to advance into senior and supervisory roles at WMS.

Summary of Responsibilities

HVAC Journeymen primarily support commercial customers, including office buildings, retail spaces, warehouses, wineries, light-industrial facilities, and institutional sites. Responsibilities include diagnosing system issues; performing preventive maintenance, repairs, retrofits, and installations; and communicating clearly with facility managers, general contractors, and Dispatch.

The goal is to ensure commercial HVAC systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably, while minimizing downtime and delivering a professional, business-focused customer experience.

Production & Field Performance

• Arrive on time and prepared for commercial service calls and construction jobsites • Perform work within estimated labor hours for commercial scopes whenever possible

• Maintain proper load-out of company vehicles with commercial-grade tools and materials

• Work efficiently with apprentices to increase productivity while maintaining quality

• Identify additional work opportunities only when they provide real operational value to the customer

• Ensure all work meets or exceeds WMS commercial workmanship and quality standards

Customer & Client Relations

• Interact professionally with facility managers, property managers, GCs, and inspectors

• Clearly explain findings, options, and recommendations in a business-appropriate manner

• Understand and respect customer downtime, scheduling, and operational constraints

• Maintain a calm, professional demeanor on active commercial jobsites

Operations & Communication

• Maintain clear, timely communication with Dispatch throughout the day

• Follow WMS standard operating procedures consistently

• Coordinate with other trades when required on commercial projects

• Ensure tools, materials, and equipment are accounted for before leaving jobsites

• Accurately complete timecards, service notes, and job documentation

Safety & Quality

• Follow OSHA regulations and WMS safety policies

• Use proper PPE at all times, including on active construction sites

• Perform work that passes inspections with minimal rework or callbacks

• Identify unsafe conditions and report hazards immediately

Key Skills & Qualities

• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic ability on commercial HVAC systems

• Experience with equipment such as RTUs, boilers, chillers, pumps, hydronic systems, and controls

• Ability to read mechanical plans, wiring diagrams, and equipment schedules

• Confidence discussing system conditions and solutions with commercial clients

• Ability to mentor apprentices without sacrificing quality

• Dependability, punctuality, and professionalism

• Desire to continue developing commercial and industrial HVAC expertise

Performance Metrics (KPIs) HVAC Journeymen are evaluated using the following indicators:

• First-Time Fix Rate

• Labor efficiency (actual hours vs. estimate)

• Average revenue per service call (ethical, solution-based)

• Average revenue per day

• Callback / rework rate

• Customer and client satisfaction feedback KPIs are used to support improvement and advancement — not high-pressure sales tactics.

Requirements

• Oregon HVAC Journeyman License

• EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification

• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate company vehicles

• Commercial HVAC field experience or completion of an HVAC training program

• LEB & Boiler licenses preferred (or ability to obtain)

• Experience with commercial systems strongly preferred

Compensation & Benefits Washington County / Portland Metro

• Hourly Pay: $38–$55/hour (DOE)

• Overtime per Oregon law

• Company vehicle

• Health insurance options

• Paid holidays and PTO

• Retirement plan options

• Training and licensing support (commercial-focused)

Advancement Path

• Senior Journeyman / Lead Technician

• HVAC Foreman (commercial field leadership)

• Service Supervisor / Operations Support

Advancement is based on consistent performance, safety, quality, labor efficiency, and demonstrated capability with commercial HVAC systems.

Westside Mechanical Services is committed to professionalism, safety, and long-term career growth for technicians who want to build a career in commercial HVAC.