HVAC Technician
Job Description
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers.
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) technicians install, maintain and repair indoor air quality systems, such as air conditioners. This may include performing warranty services and emergency repairs. This may also include assisting with customers' queries.
Job Growth
Employmentof heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installersis projected to grow 15 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Education
Because of increasing complexity, employers look for people who have at least a secondary degree from a trade school or community college in heating, air conditioning and refrigeration.
Experience
New HVACR technicians typically begin by working alongside experienced technicians. At first, they perform basic tasks such as insulating refrigerant lines or cleaning furnaces. In time, they move on to more difficult tasks, including cutting and soldering pipes or checking electrical circuits.
Some technicians receive their training through an apprenticeship. Apprenticeship programs usually last 3 to 5 years. Over the course of the apprenticeship, technicians learn safety practices, blueprint reading, and how to use tools. They also learn about the numerous systems that heat and cool buildings.
Several groups, including unions and contractor associations, sponsor apprenticeship programs.
Like most of the trades, the HVAC field is a great area in which to do anything through a genuine program with a legitimate master, Oklahoma requires apprentices to register. Thereʼs no testing involved in this. But you and the licensed HVAC contractor you are working with must complete a form.
You need to be at least 14 years old to undertake this program.
Career Progression
Moving from an entry-level job to a management position is one example of the career advancement that is possible when working for an HVAC company. Management job options in the HVAC field include operation manager, distribution manager, product manager, regional manager, and store manager. Other options include working as an HVAC contractor, or starting up your own HVAC business.
Salary
HVAC technicians in Oklahoma earn a median hourly wage of $20.34. Top-end technicians can earn up to $29.92. The median yearly salary is $42,300 with a median in the top tier of $62,240. Even though the median salary in Oklahoma is slightly less than the national level, the state is witnessing rapid growth of HVAC industry.
