The HVAC/R (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning / refrigeration) industry is rapidly changing due to advancements in technology being spurred on by the need for increased energy efficiencies.
Accordingly, the career opportunities open to an individual seeking employment in HVAC fields can be divided roughly into four categories, each dependent upon a different type or degree of education and/or training.
Career Category | Type of Work | Education/Training |
Engineer | Design and development | 4 years or more of college |
Technician | Practical application | Technical training school and/or college |
Skilled worker | Installation, maintenance, and repair | Apprentice program or on-the-job training (OJT) |
Apprentice or OJT worker | Training for skilled-worker position | High school degree or equivalency |
HVAC Engineer
Among workers in these fields, engineers receive the highest pay, but they also undergo the longest periods of education and training. Engineers are usually employed by laboratories, universities, and colleges or, frequently, by the manufacturers of materials and equipment used in heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and related industries. Their primary responsibility is designing, developing, and testing the equipment and materials used in these fields. In some cases, particularly when large buildings or district heating to several buildings is employed, they also supervise the installation of the entire system. Moreover, industry codes and standards are usually the results of research conducted by engineers.
HVAC Technicians
Technicians obtain their skills through technical training schools, some college, or both. Many assist engineers in the practical application of what the latter have designed. Technicians are particularly necessary during the developmental stages. Other technicians are found in the field working for contractors in the larger companies. Their pay often approximates that of engineers, depending on the size of the company for which they work.
HVAC Skilled worker
Skilled workers are involved in the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning equipment. Apprentices and OJT (on-the-job training) workers are in training for the skilled positions and are generally expected to complete at least a 2- to 5-year training program. Local firms that install or repair equipment in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings employ most skilled workers and trainees. Some also work on the assembly lines of factories that manufacture such equipment.
Their pay varies, depending on the area, their seniority, and the nature of the work. Most employers require that both skilled workers and trainees have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent (e.g., the GED). The requirement for a high school diploma may be waived if the individual has already acquired the necessary skills on a previous job.
The pay for skilled workers and trainees is lower than that earned by engineers and technicians but compares favorably to salaries received by skilled workers or equivalent trainees in other occupations.
Pipe fitters, plumbers, steam fitters, and sheet-metal workers may occasionally do some work with heating, ventilating, and air conditioning equipment. Both pipe fitters and plumbers (especially the former) are frequently called upon to assemble and install pipes and pipe systems that carry the heating or cooling conveying medium from the source. Both are also involved in repair work, and some pipe fitters can install heating and air conditioning units.
Steam fitters can assemble and install hot-water or steam heating systems. Many steam fitters can also do the installation of boilers, stokers, oil and gas burners, radiators, radiant heating systems, and air conditioning systems.
Sheet-metal workers can also assemble and install heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems. Their skills are particularly necessary in assembling sheet-metal ducts and duct systems.
Some special occupations, such as those performed by air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics or stationary engineers, are limited to certain functions in the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning fields. Mechanics are primarily involved with assembling, installing, and maintaining both air conditioning and refrigeration equipment. Stationary engineers maintain and operate heating, ventilating, and air conditioning equipment in large buildings and factories. Workers in both occupations require greater skills and longer training periods than most skilled workers.
It should be readily apparent by now that the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning fields offer a variety of career opportunities. The pay is generally good, and the nature of the work provides considerable job security. Both the type of work an individual does and the level at which it is done depend solely on the amount and type of education and training acquired by the individual.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Entry-Level Positions in HVAC typically require a high school diploma and on-the-job training, which can last from a few months to a year. This training may be provided by the employer or through a vocational program. Additionally, obtaining industry-recognized certifications, such as EPA Section 608 certification, can be beneficial for career advancement.
Examples of Skilled Trades roles in HVAC include HVAC technicians, installers, and service technicians. These roles require a post-secondary certificate or associate’s degree and apprenticeship training, which can last from 2 to 5 years. Skilled Trades professionals are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing HVAC systems, as well as troubleshooting and resolving technical issues.
Technical and Engineering Roles in HVAC, such as HVAC engineers, designers, and estimators, are responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing HVAC systems. They require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field, such as mechanical engineering or architectural engineering. These professionals use computer-aided design (CAD) software, building information modeling (BIM), and other tools to create detailed designs and specifications for HVAC systems.
Management and Leadership Positions in HVAC, such as department managers, operations managers, and business owners, require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and significant industry experience, typically 5-10 years. These professionals are responsible for overseeing teams of technicians and engineers, managing projects, and making strategic business decisions.
To stay current with the latest advancements in HVAC technology and career opportunities, it’s essential to engage in ongoing education and training, attend industry conferences and seminars, and participate in online forums and discussion groups. Additionally, obtaining industry-recognized certifications, such as NATE certification, and staying up-to-date with industry publications and news sources can help HVAC professionals stay ahead in their careers.
