HVAC Job Hunting Ideas You May Not Be Doing

Whether you’re just joining the industry or looking to build your career with a new position, don’t stop at perusing job ads online and filling out applications. There’s more you can do to land the HVAC job you want. Consider these job hunting ideas, both before and after you apply for a position.

HVAC job hunting ideas to boost your chance for success

1. Consider Refrigeration jobs

If you have set your sights on working as an HVAC technician, you may not have considered the benefits of specializing in Refrigeration installation, maintenance and repair. Refrigeration is the “R” in HVACR, and is closely related to HVAC because refrigeration technology is similar to air conditioning and heat pump technology.

Refrigeration technicians need at least 5 years of training to become qualified, but the benefits are great. Refrigeration techs are in very high demand because the technology is critical to the food service industry and many others.  

Learn more: Commercial Refrigeration Technician: Is It a Secure Job?

2. Read industry publications & content

To be ready to shine in an interview, you should be learning everything you can about the HVAC job you’re after, and the industry in general. There are lots of great resources out there to help you do that, including HVACR Career Connect NY! 

Here’s a list: HVAC Resources for Service Technicians

3. Build your skills

As we have talked about many times on our blog, employers want technicians with specific skills and qualities that are needed to do the job well. It pays to learn what those skills are and do everything you can to build them. And be prepared to show evidence of those skills on your resume and in an interview.

Learn more: HVAC Professional Careers: How to Prepare Now

4. Get your EPA 608 certification

Every technician who works with refrigerant chemicals in the United States is required to have EPA 608 certification. You can do this even before you apply for a job, and it can help you to get hired for an entry-level HVAC job by giving you a leg up on the competition. It shows employers that you’re committed to working in our industry.

Find out how: EPA 608 Certification Explained

5. Research employers in your area (not only HVAC service companies)

When you’re job hunting, remember that you’re in the driver’s seat. It’s not just about finding ANY job, but finding the job that you want. So where do you want to work?

Take the time to find out about HVAC employers in your area. Look out for trucks in your area. Look at reviews online: what are people saying? Also, remember that many types of organizations need HVAC technicians besides HVAC installation and service providers. 

Learn more: What Types of Businesses Hire HVAC Service Technicians?

6. Visit employers’ websites

When you have identified some companies in your area that hire HVAC technicians, visit their websites to learn as much as you can about them. What kind of work do they do? How big or small is the company? Does it seem like a place where you will be able to build a career? What type of training do they offer?

Not only can you find out which companies match your skills and interests, but you can also learn information to use in an interview. Employers like to see that you’ve taken the time to do your research.

7. Follow employers on social

Not all HVAC companies have a social media presence, but if they do you can use that to your advantage. Follow their accounts and you’ll learn what is important to them and how they like to present themselves to customers. That’s good information you can use in an interview.

8. Get on their radar

Even if the company you want to work for isn’t hiring at the moment, you can still make contact and get on their radar. Find out who is in charge of hiring technicians, and send your resume. You might even call and ask what the company looks for in new technicians. Don’t be a pest, but it can be helpful if the hiring manager recognizes you when they are ready to hire. 

Here’s a free template and tips for creating your HVAC resume.

9. Prepare your questions

Have you landed an interview? Congrats! If you have done everything on this list, you should be well prepared. Don’t forget to prepare a list of questions to ask the employer: about the job, about the company, and about anything you’re curious to know about working in the industry.

Here are some suggestions: HVAC Interview Questions & Interview Preparation Tips

More tips for getting an entry-level HVAC job

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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.