Building Services Supervisor (Airconditioning/Refrigeration Bias)

Contract: Permanent , 37 hours per week

About Rothamsted Research

Rothamsted Research, including the Lawes Agricultural Trust (LAT) and Rothamsted Enterprises Ltd (REL), is one of the world's leading agricultural research institutions. Our facilities and infrastructure play a vital role in supporting pioneering scientific research that addresses some of the world's biggest environmental and agricultural challenges.

We are seeking an experienced Building Services Supervisor (Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Bias) to join our Facilities team on the Harpenden campus.

What you will be doing

Reporting into the Facilities team, you will be responsible for supervising the maintenance and operation of refrigeration, air conditioning and controlled environment systems across a diverse and complex research estate.

This is a critical role that helps ensure the safe, compliant and reliable operation of specialist facilities that support cutting-edge scientific research. You will lead a team of engineers delivering planned preventative maintenance (PPM) and reactive maintenance activities, ensuring all works are completed safely, efficiently and to the highest standards.

You will be responsible for a wide range of systems and equipment, including:

• Refrigeration and air conditioning systems
• Air handling units (AHUs)
• Fan coil units (FCUs)
• Chillers, including absorption chillers
• Data centre cooling systems
• Controlled environment rooms and chambers
• Specialist laboratory and research facilities

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate the delivery of planned and reactive maintenance activities.
• Lead and support a team of engineers and specialist contractors.
• Ensure building services plant and equipment remain safe, compliant and fully operational.
• Manage maintenance activities in accordance with statutory requirements and SFG20 maintenance standards.
• Monitor contractor performance and ensure works are delivered to required standards.
• Investigate faults and implement effective corrective actions.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and compliance documentation.
• Promote a strong health and safety culture across all activities.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and energy efficiency.
• Participate in the out-of-hours emergency call-out rota.

Benefits

• Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme

Building Services Supervisor (Airconditioning/Refrigeration Bias)

Company: Rothamsted Research

Salary: £38,716 - £38,716

Hours: Full-time

Location: Harpenden, AL5 2JQ

Working pattern: On-site

Job type: Permanent

Posting date: 7 Aug 2026

Closing date: 6 Sept 2026

Summary

Salary: £38,716 per annum

Location: Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2JQ

Contract: Permanent , 37 hours per week