Service technicians can handle the snakelike piping required for HVAC systems.
HVAC service technicians install, maintain and repair heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems. Though some learn their skills informally on the job, many also go through technical schools, where education can take from six months to two years. Apprenticeships that last from three to five years are also available. Certification from national organizations can enhance employability and salaries. (REFERENCE 1)
Job
HVAC service technicians usually work 40 hours a weak, though they may work overtime or irregular hours during busy times. They may work inside homes and businesses, or outdoors in the cold or heat. They may face hazards from shock, strain or burns that can be avoided with safety equipment and procedures. As of May 2009, their median salary was $41,100 per year, with a range of $25,750 to $65,580, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This breaks down to $19.76 per hour, with a range of $12.38 to $31.53.
Employers
As of May 2009, the biggest employers of HVAC service technicians were building equipment contractors with 68 percent of the available 244,410 positions. They paid a mean $20.34 per hour or $42,310 per year. Their highest paying employers were motor vehicle manufacturers, with means at $31.84 per hour or $66,220 per year for 60 positions. Second-ranked for pay was electrical power generation, transmission and distribution, with lower means at $30.03 per hour or $62,470 per year, but more employment at 420 jobs.
Geography
The state with the highest salaries for HVAC service technicians was the District of Columbia at $27.19 per hour or $56,540 per year for 340 jobs, as of May 2009. Also among the top five for compensation was New Jersey, with lower means of $25.54 per hour or $53,130 per year, but far greater employment with 8,320 jobs. For cities, Champaign, Illinois, had the best pay at a mean $33.76 per hour or $70,220 per year. Also in the top five was Oakland, California, with pay at $31.80 per hour or $66,150 per year for 1,040 jobs.
Outlook
The BLS predicts that jobs for HVAC service technicians will grow by 28 percent from 2008 to 2018, which is faster than average for all positions. This is due to population growth, which will require more buildings and HVAC systems that need servicing. Older, inefficient systems will also need replacing with energy-efficient models, prompted by concerns over the environment and energy costs. Prospects will be excellent, especially for those who have trained in a technical school or through an apprenticeship.
Tags: hour year, HVAC service, HVAC service technicians, service technicians, means hour
