Deciding on a career path is challenging for young people. And when college is not the right fit, planning for the future can seem even more difficult. Is there a career that is interesting, lucrative, secure, and attainable without a degree? Technical careers in HVAC & Refrigeration check all the boxes.
As a parent, family member, or counselor, you can help by sharing helpful sources of information. Keep reading to learn more about HVAC careers.
Careers in HVAC & Refrigeration: Answers to your questions
What are the educational requirements for HVAC careers?
For technical careers in HVAC & Refrigeration, most employers require only a high school diploma. While some do choose to enter the field after college or technical school, it’s definitely not a requirement for becoming a technician.
HVAC & Refrigeration technicians learn their craft through employer-provided training that consists of some combination of classroom instruction, virtual learning, on-the-job training, mentorship, and possibly enrollment in the local union’s training program.
Learn more>
Alternatives to College: High Paying and Rewarding Careers in HVACR
How much do HVAC & Refrigeration technicians make?
According to the New York State Department of Labor, the average entry-level salary for HVAC and refrigeration technicians in New York City is $46,840 annually. Median wages average $67,045 and experienced workers get $85,193 or more.
Technicians who join the local union can earn even more: entry-level pay is currently $16 per hour (which goes up to more than $26 per hour after one year), and over $45 per hour for a qualified journeyman. Plus, union members get excellent benefits that are fully paid for by the employer.
How does that compare to other alternatives to college? Read this: HVAC & Refrigeration Technician Salary in NYC
Is it a secure job?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that HVAC & Refrigeration jobs will grow 15 percent through 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. HVACR jobs are growing, and expected to keep growing, for a number of reasons:
- Heating, cooling, and refrigeration are needed everywhere, regardless of the economic conditions
- There’s a shortage of skilled workers in the industry
- New advancements require workers with more technical ability
- There’s a building boom happening here in NYC
These factors mean that technical careers in HVAC & Refrigeration are among the most secure careers out there and skilled workers will always be in demand.
Learn more> NYC HVAC Job Outlook: A Bright Future
What skills do technicians need to get hired and to succeed?
Today, careers in HVAC & Refrigeration increasingly require technical aptitude and a customer service mindset. It’s no longer just about working with your hands (although having experience with tools is useful).
Employers also look for specific personal qualities that tend to drive success, including reliability, a strong work ethic, and an interest in helping others.
TIP: A clean driving record is also important since technicians must drive company vehicles.
Learn more>
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Jobs: What’s Required to Get Hired
The New HVACR Technician Is All About the “Tech”
Can technicians move “up the ladder” into management and other positions?
Working as an HVAC or Refrigeration technician can definitely be a step on the ladder to other exciting career opportunities, including field supervision and management, estimating, engineering, sales and other leadership roles.
Learn more>
HVAC Career Path: The Possibilities for Service Technicians
What’s the best way to get started with careers in HVAC?
For those who can demonstrate the right skills and qualities, you can get hired as a junior technician or “helper” right out of high school or following military service. Some employers and unions also offer more formal apprenticeships that are more competitive but provide excellent training.
TIP: Earning EPA 608 certification (required for workers handling refrigerants) can make you stand out as a serious applicant who is committed to working in the industry.
Here’s how to prepare for an interview:
HVAC Interview Questions & Interview Preparation Tips
Is it hard to get into the union?
You may have heard horror stories about waiting in long lines just for the chance to complete an application. Gaining entry to our NYC union for HVACR service technicians is much easier: it’s just a matter of getting hired for an entry level position by a union shop. The employer will enroll you in the union within 45 days.
Learn more>
Get to Know Your NYC Refrigeration & HVAC Union: UA Local 638
HVAC Union vs. Non Union Jobs: Which Way Should You Go?
Should I be concerned about safety?
HVAC service is a rewarding and lucrative career. Yet the work does pose risks: working with electricity, chemicals, and with construction tools and equipment can cause injury for those who aren’t careful. Employers are required to provide training. Technicians can stay safe by taking the risks seriously, using appropriate PPE, and following safety guidelines.
Learn more>
HVAC Safety Hazards: How to Avoid Injury on the Job
Where can I learn more about working in HVAC careers?
Still have more career questions? Want to dig deeper into what the work is like or get started learning some basics about how HVAC technology works? Check out these resources:
HVAC Resources for Service Technicians
Best HVAC Podcasts for Service Technicians
We’re your resource for information about careers in HVAC & Refrigeration
HVACR Career Connect NY is your source for getting started as an HVAC or Refrigeration technician. We have articles and videos to get you up to speed fast and help you build a successful career.
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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.
Learn about technical careers in the HVAC & Refrigeration industry, how to get hired and tips to build your career.