People trained in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) can look forward to careers with job stability, advancement opportunities, and high salaries. While many of the jobs involve working on HVAC systems in businesses or homes, other jobs are more focused on dealing with customers or designing HVAC systems. Below are the three HVAC positions that stand head and shoulders above all others as the best.
- HVAC Technician
If you enjoy technical and mechanical work, a job as a certified HVAC technician can be very gratifying. Most HVAC technicians have an associate degree in electrical technology or industrial maintenance, often with a specialization in HVAC. Many technicians become certified by taking classes and other training through the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers and attending seminars offered by various manufacturers.Reading blueprints, conducting inspections of systems, and repairing leaks are a small sample of a typical workday. Certified HVAC technicians with experience can expect to earn up to $55,000 per year, but they should also expect to put in long hours during peak times in summer and winter.
- HVAC Engineer
If project management and system design sounds more interesting, you can decide to become an HVAC engineer. In these jobs, the work hours are much shorter, with most people working a typical 40-hour week. The pay can also be quite high, with many engineers earning a minimum of $75,000 annually and often seeing their income reach six-figures.A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required. It's also important to receive EPA certification to learn the specifics when it comes to equipment, system design, project management, and load calculations. Engineers work to improve energy efficiency and incorporate alternative energy systems into current HVAC technology.
- HVAC Salespeople
Of course, all HVAC systems have to be sold to customers, and this is where HVAC salespeople play their role. A great career opportunity for technicians who wish to transition into a job with regular hours and higher pay, it also offers people with sales skills the chance to be trained in HVAC system technology and have a great career as well. Salespeople work for HVAC companies and distributors, with some selling to walk-in customers and others going out to meet with business and commercial clients.To excel in this field, salespeople must be good listeners and understand exactly what each customer needs. Whether it's a heat pump for a residence or an entire HVAC system for a manufacturing plant, salespeople must have the knowledge to help customers make an informed decision. Salaries for these jobs often exceed $100,000 per year, and those who stand out can advance to sales managers or other executive positions within a company.
