HVAC Technicians
| Description |
OES Code: 859020 |
(HVAC – Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Install and repair heating, air conditioning, and refrigerating systems. Duties include installation and repair of oil burners, hot-air furnaces, heating stoves, and similar equipment in homes and commercial establishments, using hand and pipe threading tools. Includes the installation and repair of cooling and central air conditioning systems.
Wages, California
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$11.75 |
| 25th Percentile |
$14.09 |
| 50th Percentile |
$18.18 |
| 75th Percentile |
$22.73 |
Wages, San Joaquin County
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$12.26 |
| 25th Percentile |
$13.31 |
| 50th Percentile |
$16.30 |
| 75th Percentile |
$20.22 |
Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey
Hours & Benefits
Almost all HVAC staff are full time and work 40 hours per week. Most employers report that they provide medical, and dental plans in addition to vacation and retirement.
Employment Trends, California
| Employment 1998 |
17,400 |
| Projected Employment 2008 |
22,100 |
| Percent Change 1998-2008 |
27% |
| Separations 1998-2008 |
3,600 |
Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
| Employment 1999 |
440 |
| Projected Employment 2006 |
610 |
| Percent Change 1999-2006 |
38.6% |
| Separations 1999-2006 |
70 |
Employment Trends by California County
Working Conditions
Mechanics work wherever the equipment to be installed or repaired is located. They may work outdoors, either on the ground or rooftops, or inside office buildings, warehouses, or private residences. They bring the tools and parts they need to the job site.
Advancement
Many service and maintenance shops are small with little chance for advancement. In larger shops, journey level mechanics can advance to supervisory positions. Some mechanics can become self-employed.
Getting the Job & Other Information
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics can find work by applying directly to employers, by registering with a union, and by applying to offices of the California Employment Development Department (EDD). Apprenticeship candidates should inquire at the training office of the Apprenticeship Coordinator at the union or contact the EDD office in their area.
For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank. |
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In highly unionized areas, the usual training for mechanics is a four to five year apprenticeship program. The minimum age for admission is 18 years. Applicants must achieve a passing score on a written examination and an oral test measuring motivation to enter the program. The training consists of classroom work combined with on-the-job-training.
Skills & Other Requirements
Important skills for HVAC technicians include: Understand and apply math concepts in performing their duties; compute formulas and equations such as volumes, pressures, and degrees; measure distance, angles, circles, arcs, temperature, weight, volume, and pressure; Identify and interpret geometric figures, graphs, scales, and gauge indications; understand scientific principles that are central to job duties, including principles of heat transfer, combustion, temperature, pressure, electricity, and magnetism; understand the concepts of electrical measurement, chemical reactions, and physical and chemical properties of commonly used substances such as refrigerants and hydrocarbons; comprehend and use a variety of communication techniques; read and understand technical materials such as codes and regulations, installation, maintenance, and service manuals, flowcharts, tables, and graphs; keep technical and diagnostic notes; compile data to complete reports, forms, records, warranties, invoices, and contracts.
References
California Occupational Guide: #32
Related Occupations: Sheet Metal Workers, Plumbers, Stationary Engineers
Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP) |
