Job Summary:The HVAC-R Superintendent provides expert technical guidance for all heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems across the fleet. This role supports Marine Technical Operations and onboard engineering teams by overseeing performance, maintenance, compliance, and lifecycle management of HVAC equipment. The HVAC-R Superintendent leads major repairs and modernization projects, ensures regulatory adherence, and drives reliability, efficiency, and system uptime.
ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership & Support- Serve as the subject-matter expert for HVAC systems, providing advanced technical support to Technical Operations and shipboard teams.
- Oversee major HVAC repairs, upgrades, and capital projects, including dry-dock and revitalization activities, in cooperation with Technical Superintendents and Director Energy Efficiency
- Manage lifecycle strategies, obsolescence planning, and system reliability improvements.
- Investigate technical issues, define corrective actions, and ensure fleetwide communication of lessons learned.
- Promote and support Windstar Energy Efficiency Program and culture
Operational Management- Deliver support to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of HVAC and refrigeration systems.
- Maintain close communication with Technical Operations, and senior onboard leadership.
- Coordinate HVAC projects and maintenance plans with Fleet Superintendents and onboard engineering teams.
- Support and guide vessel personnel in the operation, troubleshooting, and optimization of HVAC systems.
- Promote and enhance energy efficiency culture and work closely with the Director Energy Efficiency
Compliance & Safety- Work with classification societies and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with applicable IMO, SOLAS, MARPOL, and class requirements.
- Conduct ship visits, inspections, and risk assessments; manage failure investigations and implement preventive and corrective measures.
- Monitor conditions of class, audit findings, and non-conformities to ensure timely closure.
Project & Vendor Management- Manage HVAC system upgrades, modernization programs, and vendor service support.
- Review OEM technical bulletins and oversee fleetwide implementation of required actions.
- Lead HVAC-related scopes during dry docks, refurbishments, and special projects.
- Prepare technical reports, performance analyses, and recommendations for efficiency improvements.
- Support newbuild projects with system specifications, testing activities, and warranty follow-up.
Financial Responsibilities- Manage HVAC budgets, spare-parts planning, and long-term service agreements.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Marine Engineering, or related discipline, or equivalent maritime qualifications.
- 5-10 years of experience with HVAC, refrigeration, or mechanical environmental systems in maritime, industrial, or commercial settings.
- Strong understanding of large-scale chillers, air-handling units, control systems, and energy-efficient HVAC technologies.
- Experience with fleet technical management, dry-docking, and maintenance planning.
- Strong analytical and communication skills and ability to support diverse, multicultural teams.
Preferred Qualifications- Certification in HVAC or refrigeration systems.
- Familiarity with maritime environmental and efficient technologies.
- Proficiency with condition-monitoring and fleet-management software.
Work Environment- Office-based role with travel to vessels, shipyards, and vendors as required.
- Ability to sit, stand, write, and operate standard office equipment; occasional lifting (10-15 lbs).
Benefits:For full-time employees, Windstar offers a comprehensive benefits package including: Medical, Dental & Vision; HSA & FSA; Life & Disability; Accident, Hospital & Critical Illness; Pet Insurance; Vacation, Sick Time and paid Holidays; 401(k) with Company Match; Employee Assistance Plan; Education Assistance and Employee Discounts & Travel Deals.
