About
RAF Lakenheath is a Royal Air Force station currently hosting visiting military and personnel from the United States Air Force. They regularly recruit people living in the local community which helps to support the local economy.
RAF Lakenheath are recruiting now for a qualified HVAC Technician to join their team.
Vacancy Number: 938094
This is a development position and may be hired at different levels depending on the qualifications and years of experience.
Main description
We are seeking an experienced HVAC Technician to install, maintain, repair, and modify large, complex heating and air conditioning systems. The ideal candidate will be proficient in a variety of air conditioning functions, including heating, cooling, humidifying, and filtering.
Key Responsibilities:
- Install, maintain, and repair large-scale heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
- Work with complex heating and power boilers and their support systems.
- Plan and lay out the installation of commercial and industrial HVAC systems for large buildings such as warehouses, hospitals, and office buildings.
- Troubleshoot and resolve issues with HVAC, boiler, and refrigeration systems.
Qualifications required
- Advanced Level: W-05 - Level 3 - City & Guilds 6188-30/6188-31/6188-32/6288-31 or identical (no experience required)
- Fully Qualified: W-06 - Level 3 - City & Guilds 6188-30/6188-31/6188-32/6288-31or identical plus related experience per the key skills below
- A valid UK CAT B driving license
Key skills
Highly skilled technician possessing comprehensive knowledge of combustion principles, heat transfer, fuel characteristics, and the foundational theories of air conditioning, refrigeration, and refrigerant properties. Demonstrates proven expertise in installing, aligning, and repairing burners and boiler components, as well as dismantling, repairing, and reassembling large-scale AC and refrigeration hardware, including compressors, chillers, and pumps. Adept at troubleshooting complex control systems utilising pneumatics, electricity, and basic electronics to perform precision maintenance on motors, pumps, and valves. Proficient in interpreting blueprints, technical instructions, and work orders, employing shop math for critical operational calculations such as fuel consumption and air-to-fuel ratios. Combines the skilled use of hand and power tools, precision measuring devices, and specialised test equipment, including acetylene torches, refrigeration gauges, and electronic leak detectors—with an uncompromising commitment to safety regulations, operational practices, and rigorous documentation procedures
Conditions of employment
- You will be required to handle and safeguard sensitive information in accordance with applicable US and UK laws, rules and regulations. This position may also be coded as mission essential.
- May be required to travel by military and/or civilian aircraft, and may also be required to travel to the US or other country, in the performance of official duties or attend necessary training.
- You will be required to complete a 6-month probationary period.
- Duty Hours & Flexibility: Duty hours and shifts are subject to modification based on mission
requirements and flexible work policies, to include evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency overtime. Employees may be assigned other duties appropriate to their grade and skill set. - You must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- You may work with hazardous materials such as asbestos or accumulated waste. You will be required to wear protective clothing and gear on these occasions.
- This position requires a Universal CFC/NCFC Certification. You may be required to complete in house system familiarisation and pass review with DIO Authorised Person review for Skilled Person certification.
- Must maintain all US/UK industry-standard certifications.
- You will require the ability to discern colors, contrast, and depth; a pre-employment physical is required for this role.
Benefits:
- Competitive Salary: the starting salary for this position is £ 15.84 per hour
- Holiday: 25 Days Annual Leave + UK Bank holidays
- Paid Sick Leave
- Pension Scheme
- Free On-Site Parking
- Employee extras such as: Life Assurance scheme, Employee Assistance Program, Specialised Training, Developmental Opportunities, Receive time off, cash, and honorary awards for significant contributions
NOTE: You will require a security clearance and a right to work in the UK
If hired at full performance level W-06, the pay will be £15.84ph plus a Recruitment Incentive totaling £8,030.88 per year for four years. Subject to conditions.
This position may have certain restrictions on US citizens including US dual nationals due to the Status of
Forces Agreement. For additional information contact the LNDH team on 01638 544955.
LNDH Application: https://forms.osi.apps.mil/r/HiHn37upJw
Supporting Documents to be submitted via email to 100fss.fsmc6@us.af.mil
Closing Date
The closing date for this job offer is on 30/10/2026
Salary
£14.57 - £17.36 per hour
Location
This job is located in Lakenheath, Suffolk
How to Apply
About West Suffolk College
West Suffolk College is an ambitious vocational and academic College, with a stunning main campus set in the heart of Bury St Edmunds. We are committed to providing outstanding education to all our students.
