HVAC Apprentice
EARN while you LEARN! Come join the University of Iowa, Facilities Management team with this on-the-job HVAC apprentice opportunity. If you are an individual seeking a rewarding career in the skilled trades, you may be a match for our team. Through this four-year commitment, our program will offer the necessary skills to become a PHCC Certified HVAC journey worker.
The UI HVAC Apprenticeship Program lasts four years, providing 8000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction. Participants attend face-to-face classes and online learning provided by PHCC of Iowa. Classes take place in Cedar Rapids and meet for one full week twice per year, in January and May.
This unique opportunity includes but is not limited to: eligibility for a full University of Iowa benefits package, including retirement contributions, paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time), paid training (on-the-job, classroom time and travel to/from classroom), laundered uniforms and tools provided. Technical training is both on-the-job working side-by-side with a qualified HVAC journey worker, and class work or self-study. Tools and uniforms are provided!
This four-year program will allow employees to develop the necessary skills in the following areas:
Safety
Piping
Duct Work
Ventilation
Fans and Wiring/VFD
Heating Equipment Installation/Repair
Cooling Equipment Installation/Repair
System Commissioning and Tool/Equipment Maintenance
Heating and Cooling System Maintenance
Controls
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm with overtime as required.
Required Qualifications:
- High School diploma or equivalent.
- Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
- Basic computer skills.
Special Qualifications:
- Valid driver’s license and ability to meet and maintain UI Fleet Safety Standards.
Desired Qualifications:
- Mechanical aptitude or prior experience/training in mechanical, plumbing, electrical, or related trades.
- Basic knowledge of common safety practices and willingness to follow established safety protocols.
- Previous use of hand tools and power tools.
- Prior history involving customer service or regular interaction with the public.
- Previous experience working in a team-oriented environment.
- Experience following written and verbal instructions.
- Ability to communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally with individuals from a variety of backgrounds.
- Demonstrated experience working effectively in a welcoming and respectful workplace environment
- Demonstrated willingness to learn new skills.
- Experience working in a team setting.
- Current University of Iowa employee in good standing.
Position and Application Details:
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a “Relevant File” to the submission:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 10 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background investigation. Up to 3 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. State agency employers in Iowa are required to use E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. University of Iowa employees, including those who work remotely or out-of-state, are subject to E-Verify.
For additional questions, please contact Brooke McMurl at brooke-mcmurl@uiowa.edu or 319-467-0719.
This position is performed fully on campus.
Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success.
Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.
Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation.
Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.
Equal opportunity employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.

