.png?width=250&height=56&name=PCI%20Logo%20Horizontal%20-%20Web%20Ready%20Large%20(1).png)
A heating and air conditioning (HVAC) technician is a professional who works on heating and cooling systems. They install, repair, and maintain systems in environments that range from homes to large industrial centers.
HVAC technicians are constantly in demand because HVAC careers are stable and work is consistent. One of the most attractive things about an HVAC technician career is the opportunity to develop specialist skills.
A wide variety of jobs is available within the HVAC industry for people who want a rewarding and exciting career.
Roles include residential and commercial HVAC jobs, automation specialization, engineering, design, drafting, and sales positions.
The HVAC residential sector includes houses, apartments, condominiums, and townhouses.
A residential technician focuses on providing comfortable in-home living conditions by maintaining the temperature and humidity levels inside buildings.
Commercial HVAC technicians are also in high demand. Commercial technicians install, maintain, and repair the HVAC equipment in businesses, schools, hospitals, malls, hotels, and restaurants.
An automation technician specializes in computer-controlled, automated air control systems. These 'smart' systems are found in residential and commercial properties and range from simple thermostats to complex ventilation systems.
Automated technicians focus on building automation controls and providing engineering and technical oversight for projects. They must be familiar with (and offer solutions to) a range of technology malfunctions.
The average salary for HVAC building automation technicians is $65,218 per year.
Typical building automation technician responsibilities include:
An HVAC design and engineering technician is responsible for designing, drafting, and installing ventilation systems specific to clients' needs.
Design engineers typically oversee system installation and work closely with clients to fulfill requirements such as space limits, energy costs, and efficiency.
Design and engineering technicians hold bachelor's degrees in Mechanical Engineering or Industrial Technology. The average salary for an HVAC engineer is around $105,333 per year.
HVAC sales professionals sell products and services to consumers, builders, and contractors. They generally specialize in one particular product line or service area.
Other significant roles include customer support specialists who help resolve issues with existing customers.
There are several qualifications you'll need to become a certified HVAC technician. Check them out below.
You can get a head start on your HVAC career by focusing high school studies on math, physics, and vocational coursework.
If you're looking to enter the field immediately, consider enrolling in an accredited HVAC training program.
Programs include:
An HVAC apprentice is someone who works under supervision while completing training. There are apprenticeships available in all areas of HVAC technology, and all apprenticeships will:
In the US, individual states require specific licenses and certifications to be held by HVAC professionals.
There are two main types of certification for HVAC technicians: the EPA certificates and the industry organization certifications.
You might need to complete an HVAC program from an accredited training organization, while in other states, you'll need a few years of experience.
It is essential to check state regulations wherever you plan to work.
Once you've entered the job market, obtained experience, and developed skills, industry experts recommend adding to your skill sets.
To expand an HVAC career and increase earnings, you can:
The following points illustrate the value of an HVAC career:
The HVAC industry is continually evolving, and service demand is intense. As a result, innovation in the field remains dynamic as the pressure to reach environmental targets increases.
HVAC trade schools are a great option for those pursuing careers in a practical field with shorter beginning certification requirements.
Income opportunities are rewarding for individuals wishing to enter the HVAC industry. Apprentices can enter the job market quickly and advance their careers as they work.
Around 380,000 HVAC jobs were available in the US in 2019, with a growth rate of 4% predicted. Moreover, the sector is currently experiencing a serious shortage of skilled technicians.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the typical salary expectations for HVAC technicians is currently around $48,630.
Indeed.com also shows a useful highest paying cities for HVAC Technicians chart and a list of top companies for HVAC Technicians in the United States.
The HVAC field contains some of the most rewarding professions available. You get paid well, and new jobs are continually opening up.
You must be 18 years old to work in the HVAC industry, and a range of qualifications and certificates are required to work on sites.
A high school diploma or GED is necessary for most areas before you can start working in this field.
If you're interested in pursuing an HVAC career, don't hesitate to contact the Pinnacle Career Institute to look at vocational training programs, apprenticeships, or even college degrees.
