Journey-Level HVAC Technician
Alternate Title: HVAC/Controls Technician, HVAC Mechanic, HVAC Technician
Journey-Level HVAC Technician

Upon successful completion of an apprenticeship program, Journey-Level HVAC Technicians install, repair, and maintain HVAC systems with little or no supervision.

Journey-Level HVAC Technicians utilize their five-years of education and on-the-job training to ensure successful operation, maintenance, repair and installation of HVAC equipment in commercial buildings and industrial plants including healthcare, process manufacturing facilities, education institutions, and office complexes. The commercial environment provides the Journey-Level Technician job diversity, ranging from new facility set-ups to existing facility retro-fits, and the opportunity to work with the latest technology on large centrifugal chillers, split systems, boilers, pumps, air handler units, piping, heat exchangers and associated equipment. Journey-Level Technicians gain a strong understanding of electrical technology and digital controls in order to install the electrical and electronic equipment for the HVAC systems.

Advancement Routes

Job Type

Commercial

Salary Range

Wages identified under each occupation of the Careers in Climate Control Technology Map show a wide range due to (1) the geographic differences in the cost of living in California, and (2) that many occupations in the HVAC/R industry provide incentive-based pay programs.

$80,000 - $150,000; $40-$75/hr

Required Education & Training

Completion of an approved HVAC/R apprenticeship earning an industry recognized Journey-Level Certification

Preferred Education & Training

Additional Post-Secondary Technical Training

Recognized Certifications:
EPA, HVAC Excellence, NATE, OSHA 10 or OSHA 30

Work Experience

5+ years

Skills & Requirements

  • Strong knowledge of the tools and techniques used to maintain, diagnose problems, and repair HVAC and associated electrical systems
  • Knowledge of HVAC, electrical, microprocessor, and pneumatic control systems
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints and schematics.
  • Ability to interpret diagrams, drawings and equipment manuals.
  • Ability to perform combustion analysis on gas fired equipment
  • Proficient in evacuation, recovery, and charging of refrigerants
  • Ability to calibrate and test thermostats and DDC controls
  • Ability to braze and weld
  • Ability to safely operate scissors/power lifts
  • Proficient in the safe use of hand and power tools
  • Ability to work at heights and on ladders
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Demonstrate ability and willingness to take on responsibility and leadership roles.
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
  • Proficient with computers
  • Ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds
  • Valid driver's license and insurable driving record
  • May be required to pass a drug test
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