HVAC Technician Career Path: Skills, Degrees, and More

What Is The HVAC Career Path?

The HVAC industry has many job opportunities, and there are several career paths you can follow depending on your preference.

Regardless of your end goal, HVAC technicians will generally start with training at a trade school or an apprenticeship before advancing to an entry-level position.

As skills develop and experience is gained, advancement opportunities will arise.

Below are some HVAC positions in order from entry-level to senior-level to give you examples of a possible HVAC career path.

Entry-level positions

An entry-level HVAC position refers to a role that requires little to no experience in the HVAC industry. They are ideal for those with no HVAC certifications or just finished school.

Entry-level positions will generally start with an apprenticeship involving observing experienced technicians as they install and repair HVAC systems. Eventually, the apprentice will assist with different job duties under close supervision.

Once the apprenticeship is completed, aspiring HVAC technicians can apply for other entry-level roles. They typically involve installations, repairs, and services on ventilation systems, boilers, air conditioners, and furnaces. 

Examples of entry-level positions include:

• HVAC installer ($18.44/hour, Indeed)

• HVAC technician ($23.43/hour, ZipRecruiter)

• Warehouse associate ($20.82/hour, Indeed)

• HVAC assembler ($24.38, Indeed)

• HVAC helper ($18.31/hour, Talent.com)

Mid-level positions

Mid-level positions in the HVAC industry typically require around three to six years of experience. By this point in your career, you should have the Universal EPA Section 608 Technician certification. 

It may be helpful to gain some other technical HVAC certifications, such as the Professional Technician certificate. 

The responsibilities of these roles will vary depending on the specific job requirements. They could include installing HVAC equipment, programming control sequences, supervising a team of technicians and assigning jobs, and even hiring new technicians.

Mid-level HVAC positions include:

• Manufacturer representative ($64,200/year, Salary.com)

• HVAC controls technician ($54,632/year, Zippia)

• HVAC service manager ($91,842/year, Glassdoor)

• Commercial HVAC service technician ($69,908/year, ZipRecruiter)

Senior-level positions

Senior-level roles are ideal for professionals in the HVAC industry for more than seven to 10 years. Advanced qualifications, certifications, and degrees can be beneficial, such as an Associate’s degree or a Master Specialist Hands-On certificate.

Responsibilities in these roles can include developing education courses for future HVAC technicians, opening or running an HVAC business, and HVAC control system implementation, modification, and maintenance.

Senior HVAC roles include:

• HVAC instructor ($65,349/year, Glassdoor)

• HVAC general manager ($125,000/year, Talent.com)

• HVAC operations manager ($90,000/year, Talent.com)

Let’s see the steps you must take to become an HVAC technician. 

How Do You Become an HVAC Technician?

Becoming an HVAC technician isn’t hard, but it involves gaining hands-on experience in the field, meeting basic prerequisites, and completing specialized training. 

Here’s what the career path for an HVAC technician looks like: 

1. Meet the basic requirements: Most technicians require a high school diploma or GED, and strong math, physics, and mechanical aptitude. 

2. Complete HVAC education: Enroll in HVAC programs that cover system installation, maintenance, and refrigeration principles. 

3. Earn required certifications: Obtain the EPA Section 608 Certification, which is mandatory for handling refrigerants. 

4. Gain experience: Work under a licensed HVAC professional to develop real-world skills and build confidence in the trade. 

5. Apply for state licensing: Some states require HVAC technicians to hold a specific license, while others don’t. 

What Training is Required to Start a Career in HVAC?

Once you have your high school diploma or GED, you can enroll in a training program, college, or a certificate program. There are different options here that take different amounts of time to complete. 

For example, an HVAC certificate program could take 10 months, whereas a bachelor’s degree takes four years. While a certificate program is completed faster, it focuses solely on HVAC knowledge and skills. A degree tends to include additional education and often provides further work opportunities.

Many employers also prefer new HVAC technicians to complete a three- to five-year apprenticeship program, although it isn’t essential. Some apprenticeships provide nationally recognized certification when completed and serve as an alternative to training programs.

Another benefit of apprenticeship programs is that apprentices gain hands-on HVAC experience and are paid for their time. 

But let’s see what skills an HVAC technician needs next. 

Skills HVAC Technicians Need

To thrive as an HVAC technician, you need a combination of technical skills and interpersonal abilities to ensure you diagnose problems quickly, perform quality work, and build lasting relationships with customers: 

• Technical knowledge: Technicians need to understand HVAC systems, including heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration components. 

• Problem-solving skills: Quickly identify issues and find effective solutions to keep jobs on schedule. 

• Mechanical aptitude: Be comfortable with tools, machinery, and system components to work safely in various environments. 

• Electrical skills: HVAC systems involve complex wiring and controls, so knowing how to handle electrical work is vital. 

• Customer service skills: Technicians need to have a friendly demeanor and clearly communicate with customers. 

• Attention to detail: Precise measurements, accurate installations, and careful safety checks prevent costly mistakes. 

Certifications for HVAC Technicians

Now, let’s talk about the certifications that not only boost your credibility but also ensure compliance with legal requirements. Here are some of the most important certifications an HVAC technician should have: 

• EPA Section 608 Certification: Required by federal law to handle refrigerants, it involves a written exam. 

• NATE (North American Technician Excellence): Industry-recognized certification that validates technical expertise in HVAC service.

• HVAC Excellence Certification: Demonstrates your mastery in the field through rigorous training. 

• State HVAC License: Some states require a license to operate. While you can work without one, it limits your ability to take on bigger projects. Check this article to see if your state requires one or not. 

• Specialty Manufacturer Certifications: Training on specific equipment brands to improve service quality.

What Are Some HVAC Career Specializations?

HVAC career specializations are niche roles that require specialist training and certifications. Depending on existing skills and experience, an HVAC worker may specialize in one of these roles instead of following the traditional career path.

Here are some examples of common HVAC specializations:

• Refrigeration technician: Specializes in installations, upgrades, repairs, and replacements of commercial and residential cooling and refrigeration systems in grocery stores, restaurants, other businesses, and homes. ($58,456/year, Salary.com)

• Indoor air quality (IAQ) inspector: Assesses air quality inside buildings and looks for pollutants, allergens, mold, and other issues that affect comfort and health, then recommends solutions. ($61,629/year, Glassdoor)

• HVAC auto technician: Works on air conditioning systems in vehicles like cars, vans, and trucks. HVAC auto technicians are essential in car manufacturing and assembly, too. ($52,075/year, Glassdoor)

• HVAC systems design engineer: Designs HVAC systems for various markets, including office buildings, apartment blocks, malls, warehouses, and industrial applications. Needs to plan how the HVAC system will work and calculate the building’s cooling and heating requirements. HVAC systems design engineers may also contribute to HVAC research and development. ($131,822/year, Glassdoor)

• Energy auditor: Assesses energy use and analyzes each component of an HVAC system, ensuring everything works efficiently and safely. 

They play a crucial role in preventative HVAC maintenance and ensuring building owners comply with air quality and energy use regulations. ($74,046/year, Glassdoor) 

What Are The Pros and Cons of an HVAC Career?

As with any career, working in the HVAC industry has pros and cons.

The pros of having an HVAC career are the following:

• Physically active job

• Good compensation — Toby Chase, an HVAC apprentice, says “You can make just as much as some people who go to college.”

• Good work hours — Chase added “It's fulfilling work [and] a good schedule. I work a 40-hour week, maybe more if I need the money or want to.” 

• Highly stable, as people will always need heating, cooling, and ventilation systems — Billy Dahmen, another HVAC apprentice, says “This is a full-fledged career with awesome career opportunities and limitless possibilities. There are so many different aspects of the trade.” 

• Great problem-solving opportunities — Billy Kinney adds “You're a problem solver. You're there when people need you.”

The cons of an HVAC career are listed below:

• Electrical shock risk

• Other safety hazards like exposure to dust, particles, and hazardous materials, and the risk of being struck by falling objects and debris

• Working in tight spaces

• Physically demanding and tiring

• Potentially long hours

What Are Entry-Level HVAC Technician Roles?

Here’s a breakdown of common entry-level HVAC technician roles, including key duties and typical salary ranges: 

• Installer: An HVAC installer mounts units in residential and commercial settings, connects ductwork, and handles refrigerants. 

• Salary: The average base salary for an HVAC installer is $44,948/year (Indeed). 

• Maintenance technician: Performs routine upkeep on HVAC systems, such as cleaning, changing filters, or testing components. 

• Salary: The average base salary for a maintenance technician is $44,013/year (Indeed). 

• Repair technician: Diagnoses and fixes HVAC issues and communicates with clients about system malfunctions and solutions. 

• Salary: The average base salary for HVAC repair technicians is $44,000/year (Glassdoor). 

What Are the Mid-Level Positions for HVAC Technicians?

Once you’ve gained several years of experience in the HVAC field, you move on to mid-level positions that involve more leadership responsibilities and specialized training. 

Here are the common roles for mid-level positions: 

• Commercial HVAC technician: Works on large-scale heating, cooling, and ventilation systems in commercial or industrial buildings, which require specialized expertise in complex HVAC equipment (e.g., chillers, boilers, etc.) 

• Salary: The average base salary for commercial HVAC technicians is $69,908/year (Glassdoor). 

• HVAC foreman: Supervises installation, ensures projects meet specifications, and maintains safety standards. 

• Salary: The average base salary for an HVAC foreman is $65,270/year (Glassdoor). 

• Service manager: Oversees the service department, manages schedules, and handles customer escalations. 

• Salary: The average base salary for HVAC repair technicians is $104,000/year (Glassdoor). 

At various points along the HVAC career path, there are specialization opportunities. We’ll take a look at some examples in the next section.

What Are Some HVAC Career Specializations?

HVAC career specializations are niche roles that require specialist training and certifications. Depending on existing skills and experience, an HVAC worker may specialize in one of these roles instead of following the traditional career path.

Here are some examples of common HVAC specializations:

• Refrigeration technician: Specializes in installations, upgrades, repairs, and replacements of commercial and residential cooling and refrigeration systems in grocery stores, restaurants, other businesses, and homes. ($77,594/year, Indeed)

• Indoor air quality (IAQ) inspector: Assesses air quality inside buildings and looks for pollutants, allergens, mold, and other issues that affect comfort and health, then recommends solutions. ($81,230/year, Salary.com)

• HVAC auto technician: Works on air conditioning systems in vehicles like cars, vans, and trucks. HVAC auto technicians are essential in car manufacturing and assembly, too. ($58,782/year, ZipRecruiter)

• HVAC systems design engineer: Designs HVAC systems for various markets, including office buildings, apartment complexes, malls, warehouses, and industrial applications. Needs to plan how the HVAC system will work and calculate the building’s cooling and heating requirements. 

HVAC systems design engineers may also contribute to HVAC research and development. ($138,000/year, Glassdoor)

• Energy auditor: Assesses energy use and analyzes each component of an HVAC system, ensuring everything works efficiently and safely. 

They play a crucial role in preventative HVAC maintenance and ensuring building owners comply with air quality and energy use regulations. ($73,000/year, Glassdoor) 

What Are the Benefits of Becoming an HVAC Technician?

As with any career, working as an HVAC technician has its benefits, blending stability, hands-on satisfaction, and being part of what is an attractive profession for many people: 

• Job stability and demand: HVAC systems are essential in homes and offices year-round, so you’ll never run out of jobs. The demand for skilled technicians still remains strong. 

• Competitive earning potential: Not only do technicians start with a solid wage, but salaries can rise significantly with certifications, years of experience, and specializations.

• Varied work: No HVAC job is the same, and each day brings new challenges, keeping the job dynamic and engaging. 

• Pathway for advancement: The HVAC field offers room for growth based on your interests and certifications. 

What Are the Challenges of an HVAC Technician Career?

Yes, the HVAC field offers a highly profitable career path, but it also comes with challenges that every technician should be prepared for, including: 

• Physical demand: HVAC work involves lifting heavy equipment, as well as bending, kneeling, and working in tight spaces for long periods. 

• Varied working conditions: Technicians need to be able to work in extreme heat or cold, in attics, basements, or on rooftops, which can be taxing over time. 

• Seasonal workload fluctuations: Demand might peak in summer and winter, leading to long hours and potential slowdowns for the rest of the year. 

• Emergency or on-call hours: You might need to handle urgent system breakdowns at night, on weekends, or on holidays, so you need to be available at all times. 

• Continuous learning requirements: Staying current with new trends, technologies, and standards requires ongoing training. 

What Are Some HVAC Career Growth Tips?

The HVAC industry offers great job stability and plenty of opportunities for career development and growth. To ensure you keep moving forward, keep the following tips in mind:

• Pursue continuous education: Many high-level and senior roles mentioned in this article require certifications, licenses, and even degrees beyond hands-on experience. Continuing education is an excellent way to stay on top of new technologies and certifications.

• Specialize in high-demand areas: Specializing is an excellent way to grow your career quickly, as you focus on a niche area of the HVAC industry. Look for one in high demand to grow faster.

• Network: Develop your network of HVAC professionals to learn more about the industry. Attend conferences and seminars on new systems and equipment.

• Develop your soft skills: Communication, time management, and problem-solving are vital for success in the HVAC industry. Work on improving them alongside your technical skills. 

• Be tech-savvy: Technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in the HVAC industry. ServiceTitan’s HVAC software empowers technicians to book appointments faster, manage clients better, and stay updated on jobs through the mobile app, contributing to happier customers.

Following this guidance will soon see you climbing the HVAC ranks. 

But if you feel this career is not for you, there are some alternatives you can consider.

What Are Some Alternative Jobs for an HVAC Technician?

There may come a time in your HVAC career when you decide to transition away from hands-on work. In-the-field HVAC work is physically demanding and may no longer be viable after an injury or as you get older.

Luckily, depending on your skill level, there are many alternatives to hands-on work. Options include:

• Project management: Requires extensive field experience, robust time and people management skills, advanced technical education, and customer service skills. Project managers oversee installation and repair projects and ensure timely completion.

• Sales: Requires thorough knowledge of HVAC systems, equipment, and components, sales experience, and great customer service skills.

• Customer service: Requires excellent customer service and communication skills, and a mid-level knowledge of standard HVAC practices. Customer service teams are responsible for scheduling callouts, managing bookings, and handling customer concerns.

What Is the Career Path for HVAC Technicians With No Experience?

There’s a clear and achievable path into the HVAC industry, even if you have no prior experience. All you need to do is build foundational knowledge and gain hands-on training before moving into a full-time role.

A typical route looks like this: 

• Earn a high school diploma or GED, which is the basic education for meeting trade school or apprenticeship entry requirements. 

• Complete HVAC training or technical school to learn system design, installation, troubleshooting, and safety practices. 

• Get entry-level certifications (like EPA 608 certification) which are required to handle refrigerants. 

• Enter an apprenticeship program, where you work under experienced technicians to gain practical skills. 

• Move into entry-level technician roles and start as an installer, maintenance tech, or junior technician to build experience and prepare for more complex roles. 

How Long Does It Take to Advance in HVAC?

Most HVAC technicians spend two to five years progressing from apprentice to a fully independent technician, often requiring specialized training or leadership experience. 

Reddit user slovog89 said, “Been in this industry for 20 years and I still learn every day. It just takes time. After about 5-7 years in, I started feeling more and more confident in my craft. I finally had a great grasp of basics, and when you get that knowledge down, you can figure out pretty much any issue, or have the confidence that you can.” 

Highly advanced positions, such as an HVAC business owner, may take eight to 10 years, depending on opportunities and career goals. 

What Is the Outlook for HVAC Technician Jobs?

Don’t worry, the outlook for HVAC technicians is promising. As job growth in the HVAC industry continues steadily (projected to grow 8 percent from 2024 to 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), there’s a growing demand for HVAC technicians. 

Technological trends and market demands also fuel this growth, as more people are interested in installing energy-efficient and smart systems and embracing modern ideas like embedded sensors and even remote troubleshooting. 

In a nutshell, there’s no shortage of skilled HVAC professional roles, and they will remain in high demand in the foreseeable future.

Over to You!

HVAC systems and the professionals who design, install, maintain, and repair them are essential to countless businesses, schools, homes, hospitals, and more. 

The first step to becoming an HVAC professional is hands-on learning and education. Then, as you develop your skills on the job, you are open to a wide variety of HVAC roles. 

Maintain career growth using technology like ServiceTitan to improve job handling, customer service, and business functions. 

ServiceTitan is home services software that enables HVAC professionals to improve customer relations, create marketing campaigns, dispatch technicians, and easily manage jobs and bookings. Our suite of tools is trusted by over 100,000 home services professionals countrywide.