Field Service Technician I - Sarasota, Florida - job 1 of 2

As a Field Service Technician I at Whaley Foodservice, you will be responsible for diagnosing, troubleshooting, and repairing commercial cooking kitchen equipment, refrigeration, or HVAC systems. The role requires communication with both our customers and our branch office to keep everyone updated on service calls and parts orders.

To qualify for the Field Service Technician I position at Whaley Foodservice, you must be at least 18 years old, possess a valid driver’s license, and have at least one year of applicable experience in commercial cooking, refrigeration, or HVAC. A background check and drug screen are also required.

Field Service Technician I at Whaley Foodservice enjoy an array of benefits, including competitive salary, sign-on bonuses, a company vehicle, ongoing education, medical and dental insurance, 401k and profit sharing, paid holidays and vacations, and both short-term and long-term disability insurance.

Important skills for a Field Service Technician I at Whaley Foodservice include attention to detail, excellent communication, and problem-solving abilities. Experience in diagnosing and repairing electrical or mechanical systems can give candidates an edge.

The work environment for a Field Service Technician I is dynamic, typically involving extensive daily travel to various job sites. Technicians can expect to work in diverse settings, including commercial kitchens and rooftops, and might be exposed to hot environments and heavy lifting.

While experience in HVAC is preferred, it is not strictly necessary to apply for the Field Service Technician I position at Whaley Foodservice. Relevant experience in commercial cooking equipment or refrigeration is considered just as valuable.

The career path for a Field Service Technician I at Whaley Foodservice can lead to advanced technician roles, supervisory positions, or specialists in specific equipment types, especially for those who seek certifications and pursue continuous education opportunities.

When troubleshooting kitchen equipment, start by gathering information about the issue from the user, then proceed to check the power supply and examine all components for visible faults. Document your findings and detail your steps to demonstrate a systematic approach.

In your response, focus on a specific example. Describe the challenge, your assessment process, the solution you implemented, and the positive outcome that resulted. This shows your proactive problem-solving and technical skills.

Answer by listing specific safety measures you adhere to, such as using protective gear, ensuring equipment is powered off before inspection, and being mindful of hot surfaces and moving parts, showcasing your commitment to safety.

Highlight your organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks. Explain how you plan your route, communicate with customers proactively about timing, and remain flexible to adjust to unexpected delays.

If you have direct experience, outline the specific HVAC systems you’ve worked on, emphasizing any repairs or installations. If lacking direct experience, still mention related exposure to commercial refrigeration or cooking equipment.

Effective communication involves regular updates about repair statuses, listening to customer concerns, and ensuring they understand the work being performed. When explaining technical issues, simplify the jargon to enhance understanding.

Explain your methodical approach to task completion, such as preparing necessary tools and parts in advance, following a checklist for thoroughness, and asking questions to ensure clarity on the customer’s needs before starting a job.

Approach this scenario by discussing your ability to listen and empathize with the customer's frustrations while remaining calm. The focus should be on resolving issues and providing reassurance that you are there to help.

Be specific by mentioning different brands and types of equipment you’ve serviced — grills, fryers, ovens, etc. Share any preferred equipment or brands that you enjoy working with to reflect your passion.

Express a genuine interest in Whaley Foodservice’s mission and values. You could mention the company’s commitment to employee development and diversity or its reputation for quality service and customer satisfaction as motivating factors.