HVAC Careers: Refrigeration Technician

Thinking about starting a career in the HVACR industry? Consider becoming a Refrigeration Technician, a career that offers job security as well as the chance to earn an impressive income and benefits, all without a college degree (or college debt). 

Refrigeration technology is similar to air conditioning and heat pump technology, so it can also be a great move for someone already working in HVAC.

Refrigeration is the “R” in HVACR (heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration). 

Refrigeration systems are mission-critical for manufacturing, supermarkets, and other businesses. That’s one reason why it’s such a secure career. Even during the height of the pandemic, Refrigeration Technicians were considered essential workers.

Keep reading to learn more about Refrigeration Technician careers and how to get started.

What is a Refrigeration Technician and how much do they earn?

A Refrigeration Technician installs, maintains, and repairs refrigeration systems in many commercial locations, including supermarkets, restaurants and other food service businesses. They also work in manufacturing, pharmaceutical, healthcare, and industrial facilities. A Refrigeration Mechanic does similar but more advanced work and may also be involved in refrigeration system design.

Learn more:

Refrigeration Technician Jobs: What the Work is Like

Refrigeration Maintenance: Why It’s a Great Career

The salary for Refrigeration Technicians can vary quite a bit depending on the location, company and the level of experience. Here in the NYC metro area, the average wage is about $32 per hour, while salaries can range from $35,000 to $80,000+ per year. Many technicians earn much more with overtime work. 

Joining the union can help you get a higher salary along with excellent benefits. 

Learn more:

HVAC & Refrigeration Technician Salary in NYC

Skills & experience needed to become a Commercial Refrigeration Technician

Refrigeration Technicians working with complex commercial systems need specialized skills that can take longer to master than typical HVAC skills. That means it may take an additional year or two to become fully qualified. But the process is similar to becoming an HVAC Technician. 

Many employers will train men and women with the right skills and qualities through a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job-training. Most do not require a college degree for entry-level positions, or even technical school, although that is a plus. 

TIP: Earning your EPA 608 certification, which is required to work with refrigerants, can give you a leg up on the competition.

That said, some employers do look for applicants with some industry experience. So it can be helpful to start as an HVAC Technician and then move into Refrigeration. 

Learn more about careers in HVAC & Refrigeration

Check out our Career Spotlights to learn more about career paths in the HVACR industry. And sign up for our newsletter below for monthly tips to help you build a successful career.

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.