If you are looking to start or switch your career, have you considered becoming a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technician? Because of the skilled labor shortage, more women and men are needed to work in this field. With all of the opportunities available, you can build a steady, stable career.
Learn what a career as an HVAC technician involves and some advantages of working in the field.
HVAC Duties
Your role as an HVAC technician involves installing and repairing air quality systems for businesses and homes. You locate and diagnose maintenance problems on equipment, conduct warranty services, and perform emergency repairs on equipment. Keeping the air quality systems clean, fixed, and functioning is important for users to maintain their health. Other responsibilities include removing old systems, ordering equipment, maintaining records, meeting local HVAC codes, training junior team members, and communicating with clients and customers.
HVAC Qualifications
Technical knowledge, communication, and problem-solving skills are necessary for your HVAC position. You must be able to diagnose and repair the equipment and explain what needs to be fixed and why. The required skills include removing old HVAC equipment and installing new equipment, running pipe and duct systems throughout homes, and reading and interpreting wiring diagrams. Other skills include understanding refrigeration cycles and knowing how to interpret pressure, temperature, and other technical data. Soft skills such as speaking, listening, critical thinking, and time management are important as well.
HVAC Education and Training
A high school diploma or GED, certification, and licensure are needed to work as an HVAC technician. The requirements depend on the role. For instance, the skills needed to work in new residential construction differ from those needed to work in a factory or retrofit old homes with new equipment. Also, because licensure varies by state, you need to know the requirements of the state you want to work in. There are 3- to 5-year paid apprenticeships available to acquire the skills and training for the work.
HVAC Experience
The level of experience needed to work as an HVAC technician depends on the role. For instance, an entry-level position may require 0 to 2 years of experience. You likely would need at least 5 years of independent study, on-the-job training, and job shadowing to move into mid- or senior-level positions.
HVAC Career Advantages
You gain a variety of benefits by working as an HVAC technician. For instance, you may be able to complete your certification in as little as 7 months. Also, you spend much of the workday moving around to different indoor and outdoor job sites, which keeps you busy and engaged. Additionally, there are plenty of job openings to start and grow your career. The more training, experience, and certifications you have, the greater your options. You could start by servicing equipment, transition to installing equipment, and go on to manage company operations and distribution.
Find an HVAC Job
Find your first or next HVAC job through CCS Construction Staffing. Visit our job board today.