HVAC Commercial Foreman

Position Summary

The HVAC Commercial Foreman is a working field leader responsible for the daily execution of HVAC installation work on assigned commercial projects. The Foreman installs alongside the crew while leading them — planning the day's work, assigning tasks, monitoring quality, tracking time and materials, and ensuring the job is built per drawings and code. The Foreman is the on-site decision-maker for their crew and the primary communication link to the Superintendent and Project Manager.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead a crew of 4-12 installers and helpers on assigned commercial HVAC installation projects

• Receive daily task assignments from the Superintendent and Project Manager; plan and execute the day's work accordingly

• Read and interpret mechanical drawings, shop drawings, equipment specifications, and submittals — execute installation per approved documents

• Perform layout for ductwork, piping, equipment, and accessories before installation begins

• Install ductwork (sheet metal, flex, fiberglass duct, exhaust), refrigerant piping, hydronic piping (chilled water, hot water, condenser water), and HVAC equipment (AHUs, RTUs, fan coils, VRF, mini-splits, exhaust fans)

• Set, hang, and level equipment; coordinate refrigerant, water, drain, and electrical connections

• Coordinate with GC site superintendent, other trades, and inspectors on a daily basis

• Track and report daily labor hours for each crew member, time on tasks, and progress against the schedule

• Manage and account for materials on-site — confirm deliveries, identify upcoming needs, prevent waste

• Conduct daily safety review (toolbox talks), enforce PPE compliance, identify and address site hazards

• Document daily field activities through NWAC's field reporting app (Service Calls, Daily Logs, photos, sign-offs)

• Identify and immediately escalate field conditions that differ from drawings (unforeseen conditions, scope conflicts, design issues)

• Prepare for inspections — code, fire marshal, owner walk-throughs, GC quality reviews — and represent NWAC during them

• Train and develop apprentices and helpers; correct quality issues in real time

• Maintain a clean, organized, professional job site

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years' experience in commercial HVAC installation

• Minimum 5 years' experience leading a crew (formal foreman, lead installer, or working foreman role)

• Strong ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, shop drawings, and equipment submittals

• Hands-on proficiency across ductwork, piping, equipment setting, and refrigerant work in commercial settings

• Experience with VRF/VRV systems, chilled water systems, RTUs, and packaged equipment

• Working knowledge of NYC Mechanical Code, NYC Energy Code, NFPA 96 (kitchen exhaust), and ASHRAE basics

• OSHA 30 certification (current)

• NYC SST (Site Safety Training) Card (current)

• Fire Watch certification

• Valid NY driver's license

• Ability to lift 50+ lbs, work at heights, work in tight spaces, and stand for extended periods

• Strong verbal and written communication — comfortable interacting with GC supers, inspectors, and clients

• Ability to manage time, prioritize tasks, and lead a crew without constant supervision

Preferred Qualifications

• First Aid / CPR certification

• Experience with Procore project management software

• Bilingual in English plus Spanish or Russian

• Experience with controls / BAS coordination

• Experience reading and verifying TAB (test, adjust, balance) reports

Compensation & Benefits

• Base pay: $85,000 – $110,000 / year (or hourly equivalent $41-$53/hr) depending on experience

• Overtime pay at time-and-a-half per applicable law

• Performance bonuses tied to project margin and on-time delivery

• Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays

• 401(k) with company match

• Tools and tool allowance program

• Company-paid OSHA, SST, and certification renewals

• Career growth path: Foreman → Superintendent → Field Manager / Project Manager