Entry-Level HVAC Jobs: 5 Ways to Land One

Companies are hiring now for entry-level HVAC jobs

Spring and summer is when most contractors are hiring for entry-level HVAC jobs. That’s when they invest in a new crop of aspiring technicians that they can train to become “helpers” or junior technicians and grow into seasoned professionals. This year, expect to see increasing numbers of job listings for entry-level technicians. 

Employers are not usually looking for any experience in the industry when they hire for entry-level HVAC jobs. What’s more important is your attitude, work ethic, and a desire to learn and excel. 

Learn more about the qualifications employers are looking for here: Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Jobs: What’s Required to Get Hired.

In the meantime, here are 5 things to do now so you’ll have the best chance to land the job you want.

5 ways to land an entry-level HVAC job

1. Do your homework

It’s smart to target the companies you’d like to work for even before you begin applying for jobs. The more you learn about the industry and the companies doing HVAC and Refrigeration service in your area, the easier it will be to match your skills and interests with employers that may be the right fit for you.

When you find ads or listings for entry-level HVAC jobs, visit the company’s website and social media to learn as much as you can about their focus and culture. (You might even find job listings on their websites before they are posted elsewhere.)

2. Show your commitment 

For employers, there’s a tricky aspect to hiring inexperienced young people for entry-level HVAC jobs: the time and money they invest in training them. Companies want to be reasonably sure that a newly hired employee will stick around for the long term. 

That’s why employers look for some sign of a commitment to their career choice from entry-level candidates. That’s why having some training, such as technical classes or earning required certifications, can give you an edge. It shows you’re serious and committed to a career in the HVACR industry.

We recommend learning as much as you can on your own about HVAC and Refrigeration work even before you begin applying for jobs. In fact, right here at HVACR Career Connect NY is a great place to start learning about the industry. Check out our articles and videos.

3. Build in-demand skills

As we mentioned before, employers want entry-level technicians who have the right skills and qualities, such as:

• Being dependable and responsible
• Being willing to work hard
• Having a clean driving record
• Enjoying learning new things
• Having an aptitude for technology as well as experience with tools
• Being good at communicating with and interacting with customers
• Being a team player

If you’re lacking in any of these areas, do what you can to improve your skills. For example, if you’re not the greatest driver, consider getting driver training. Or build your customer service skills with a part time job or volunteer work.

4. Create a compelling resume

Without industry experience, how do you create a resume to apply for entry-level HVAC jobs? 

To put you in the best position to get an interview with an HVAC or Refrigeration company, your Refrigeration & HVAC resume must look professional, show your strengths, and demonstrate what employers want in a new hire.

Check out our resume tips and template here.

5. Prepare to shine in an interview

Now that you understand more about what employers are looking for in the best candidates for entry-level HVAC jobs, you can figure out how to position yourself in an interview. 

Use what you learned in your research. Employers love it when they can see you’ve taken the time to learn about the company. Mention the things you learned from their website or social channels. Also talk about what you have learned in your industry research and why it interests you.

Play up your desirable skills. Do you have lots of experience fixing things? Are you great at picking up new technology? Do you have a knack for customer service? Before you show up for an interview, think about what skills you have that employers are looking for.

Show the proof. If you can prove that you have the desired skills, that’s the best case. For example, did you always work the cash register at your summer job because you’re great with people? Ask your former boss to give you a reference. Before you start applying for jobs, gather the evidence to show employers that you’re a great candidate.

Ask questions. In most job interviews, the hiring manager is going to ask if you have any questions. Make sure you do! It makes you seem curious, smart, and well prepared, which are all qualities that HVAC companies want in their technicians. You can ask about the path to becoming a fully-qualified journeyman, about the types of customers the company services, or about the company’s training program.

HVACR Career Connect NY was created to promote the exceptional quality-of-life benefits of a career in HVAC and Refrigeration service, and also to provide a clear path for getting started in the profession. In doing so, we serve as a resource for employers in the New York City metro area to find and hire smart and capable new technicians. We also serve as an educational resource to support business growth and to help service technicians succeed in their chosen profession.