Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers

Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.

SOC: 49-9021.00

Common Job Titles

HVAC Mechanic (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Mechanic)Refrigeration MechanicRefrigeration Technician (Refrigeration Tech)Service Technician (Service Tech)
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

396,870

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$39,130
10% of workers earn the following or more$91,020
Workers on average earn$62,690

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Mechanical4.7/5
  • Building and Construction4.2/5
  • Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
  • Engineering and Technology3.5/5
  • Computers and Electronics3.3/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Adobe AcrobatAutodesk AutoCADMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordSAP software

Technology Skills

Alerton Ascent CompassAtlas Construction Business FormsBuilding automation softwareComputer aided design CAD softwareComputerized maintenance management system CMMSContact management systemsCworks CMMSData logging software

Tools & Equipment

4-wire resistance sensorsAcetylene torchesAdjustable widemouth pliersAdjustable wrenchesAir compressorsAir flow hoodsAir flow sensorsAir velocity meters