Introduction
In an economy where finding a steady job that pays well and has reasonable benefits can be an enormous challenge. Those who seek HVAC jobs and have the qualifications to work in a variety of industries often find greater opportunities to pursue their career when the economy looks grim. Although some regions have fewer HVAC jobs available, those practitioners of the trade who are willing to move into a new region find even more openings than those who are bound to a particular geographic location. According to the U.S. Department of Labors Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average income for HVAC jobs ranges from just over $26,000 per year to nearly $70,000. Known primarily as the professionals in heating, ventilation and air conditioning, a number of HVAC jobs also include work on refrigeration systems.
Step 1
Begin making your plans for seek HVAC jobs as early in your education and career training as possible. If you are still in high school, pay particular attention to mathematics classes because the ability to make accurate calculations are an important part of setting up HVAC systems that function properly. If a shop class or other classes are available that provide training in mechanical skills, enroll and learn about engines, motors, metal-working equipment and techniques or other hands-on building skills. When its time to decide on your education path beyond high school, actively review vocational schools or a two-year college with a complete set of courses that prepares you for certification. The course work should include both classroom and laboratory training. Ideally the school will be allied with HVAC companies that can provide the opportunity to work on real-life projects.
Step 2
Within a year or two of your initial training you should be able to decide if you wish to seek HVAC jobs in the residential, commercial or heavy industry sectors. Each has its advantages and downsides. Residential HVAC jobs may be found with contractors, HVAC equipment manufacturers or by setting up your own private business offering installation and repair services. Commercial HVAC jobs may require specific training to work with larger types of equipment. Your employer may be a commercial general contracting firm, a national or regional manufacturers service organization or a private commercial property owner. The highest paying HVAC jobs are generally found in heavy industry. You will need to pay your dues, working at a lower paid job and getting very specific education before you land one of the higher paying positions. These HVAC jobs may involve being responsible for the HVAC function for a corporations manufacturing plants or working in the motor vehicle or railway industry.
Step 3
Keep yourself physically fit if you want to be successful in the heating, air conditioning and refrigeration field. HVAC jobs often including working outdoors in very hot or very cold temperatures when HVAC systems fail and need immediate attention. The indoor sections of HVAC systems often have to be accessed through narrow spaces where its a tight squeeze to get to the necessary components. When you interview for HVAC jobs, it never hurts to mention any activities you're involved in that contribute to your health and wellness.
Tips and Comments
Locate and attend HVAC industry events to meet up with prospective employers and network with industry representatives who tend to know where the best HVAC jobs are located.
