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Lead HVAC Installer

Kelso Building Services

$42 / hour

Atlanta, GAFull-timeOn-siteProficient

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Description

About the Role
We're looking for an experienced Lead HVAC Installer coming from the residential or light commercial world to lead installation crews from start to finish on light commercial retrofit projects. You'll own the job on site: laying out systems, leading installers and helpers, keeping work clean and code-compliant, and making sure every system starts up right the first time. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys doing the work and takes pride in leading project efficiently.
 
What You'll Do
  • Lead installation crews on light commercial retrofit projects (rooftop units, split systems, heat pumps, furnaces, ductless mini-splits)
  • Review plans, load calcs, and job scopes; lay out equipment, ductwork, and line sets before work begins
  • Install, set, and connect HVAC equipment, including refrigerant piping, condensate, gas piping, and low-voltage controls
  • Fabricate, modify, and install ductwork, transitions, and supply/return systems
  • Braze, pressure test, evacuate, and charge systems to manufacturer specifications
  • Perform startup, commissioning, and airflow checks, and verify proper system operation before turnover
  • Assign daily tasks, coach installers and apprentices, and hold the crew to quality and safety standards
  • Communicate with homeowners, builders, GCs, and supervisors on schedule, scope changes, and job status
  • Ensure work meets local codes and passes inspections
  • Keep job sites clean, organized, and safe; maintain tools, vehicles, and materials inventory
  • Complete job paperwork, material lists, and closeout documentation accurately and on time
Required Qualifications
  • 5+ years of HVAC installation experience, including residential and light commercial work
  • 1+ years leading a crew or serving as lead installer
  • EPA 608 Certification (Universal preferred)
  • Strong knowledge of split systems, heat pumps, package units, and ductless systems
  • Proficient in brazing, ductwork fabrication, and refrigerant handling
  • Able to read blueprints, mechanical drawings, and manufacturer installation instructions
  • Working knowledge of mechanical and building codes
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
  • Able to lift 75+ lbs and work in attics, crawlspaces, rooftops, and outdoor conditions
Preferred
  • State or local HVAC license (as needed)
  • NATE certification
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
  • Experience with high-efficiency and variable-speed equipment
  • Experience training apprentices or helpers
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive pay up to $42/hour based on experience. 
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • Company vehicle, fuel card, and tools provided 
  • Ongoing training, certifications, and career advancement opportunities

Benefits

  • health insurance
  • vision insurance
  • 401(k)
  • paid time off

About this role

Kelso Building Services is seeking a Lead HVAC Installer in Atlanta to oversee light commercial retrofit installations from layout through startup. You'll manage installation crews on projects involving rooftop units, split systems, heat pumps, and ductless mini-splits, handling everything from blueprint review and equipment positioning to brazing, pressure testing, and system commissioning. This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll both perform technical work and direct installers and apprentices while maintaining code compliance, safety standards, and clear communication with builders, GCs, and homeowners.

The position requires at least five years of HVAC installation experience spanning residential and light commercial work, plus one year in a lead or supervisory capacity. You'll need EPA 608 certification, proficiency in brazing and ductwork fabrication, the ability to read mechanical drawings and codes, and comfort working in varied conditions—attics, crawlspaces, rooftops—while lifting over 75 pounds regularly. A valid driver's license and state or local HVAC license (where required) are essential; NATE certification and OSHA training are preferred.

Kelso offers competitive pay up to $42 per hour, medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) match, paid time off, a company vehicle with fuel card, tools, and ongoing training and certification support. This role suits someone who takes pride in quality workmanship and efficient crew leadership, with room to advance within the company.

This role's local market on JobMinglr

Pay for this role

$42 per hour

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