How to Get Started with HVAC Careers
Looking for an exciting, hands-on career with a focus on problem solving? Consider the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) industry. It’s a rapidly expanding career field and is projected to grow even more in coming years, particularly in Florida. Every day is active, on-the-go and includes plenty of variety. Ready to dive in? Here’s everything you need to know about HVAC careers and whether one might be the right fit for you.
Types of HVAC Careers
HVAC Tech: An HVAC tech works on and installs heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems in homes and businesses. There are typically opportunities for advancement within this role. For example, learning the skills necessary to move from assistant technician to a lead technician.
Sales Associate: An HVAC sales associate typically has experience in the industry. They are responsible for communicating with clients and guiding them in the purchase of an HVAC system.
Customer Service Manager: Like a sales associate, a customer service associate or manager in the HVAC industry focuses on communication. Instead of guiding sales, they are responsible for managing service requests. They update a busy calendar and build the daily schedule for technicians.
Required Job Skills
To succeed in any one of these HVAC careers, an individual must be honest, hardworking and motivated to succeed. For an HVAC tech, it’s important that you don’t mind getting your hands dirty while working on a repair or installation. You must be comfortable working nights and weekends, as HVAC emergencies can happen anytime. Finally, a great HVAC technician is skilled in their attention to detail, problem solving and a has knack for finding creative solutions.
For sales and customer service jobs, an individual must also have an eye for detail. They’re best suited for the job if they are good with people, as maintaining customer relationships is key. If you’re in customer service, you need to be able to match the right tech for the right job. You’ll aid in maintaining clear communication between team members. Finally, a sales or customer service representative in the HVAC industry must be organized, as they will be managing a complex (and ever-evolving) schedule.
HVAC Careers Training
HVAC systems are incredibly complex, so most employers prefer applicants with postsecondary education or who have completed an apprenticeship. To equip more certified HVAC technicians in the North Florida area, the Florida Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractor’s Association launched an apprenticeship program in conjunction with Lively Technical College. In addition, programs are available through Tallahassee Community College.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual wages for heating and air conditioning technicians are on the upper end of the pay scale for skilled trades workers. Apprentices should expect to earn about half of what more experienced employees take home.
If you’re a high school student interested in this fast-growing career, it’s never too early to start developing your skills. You should take courses in vocational education and math, and look at HVAC programs to consider whether it’s the right path for you.
Join Our Team
At Barineau Heating and Air Conditioning, we believe our team members are our greatest asset. That’s why we’re focused on being a place where they love to work. We’re committed to supporting the best, with the best, from company outings to opportunities to grow and advance in the field. We offer a highly competitive benefits package because we strive to enhance the quality of life of all our team members.
If you’re ready to be part of a team that values honesty, teamwork and customer service, we want to hear from you! We’re always looking for talented people to join our family. If you have a passion for serving customers and are interested in showing us your talents, visit our Careers page today.
