HVAC Technician: What is the cost of hiring?

Why hire an HVAC technician?

An HVAC technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in residential and commercial settings. They ensure that systems operate efficiently, which helps companies reduce energy costs and create a comfortable environment for employees and customers.

Contributions of a skilled HVAC technician:

• system performance optimization and energy efficiency
• maintaining regulatory compliance and safety standards
• minimizing downtime by promptly addressing system issues, thus improving company productivity

HVAC technicians: Differences between full-time and self-employed staff

When deciding between hiring a full-time HVAC technician or a self-employed contractor, consider the needs of your company. Hiring a freelance or contract HVAC technician may be the best solution for short-term projects, like installing new HVAC systems, conducting seasonal maintenance, or addressing one-off repair jobs. It allows some flexibility without the commitment of permanent employment. On the other hand, if your business requires regular maintenance, frequent repairs, or full-time system monitoring, a permanent full-time HVAC technician can provide consistency and be more cost-effective in the long run. Full-time employees also allow for better system knowledge and long-term planning.

What are the different types of HVAC technicians?

HVAC technicians can specialize in various roles, depending on their skills and the type of systems they work with. Each level of HVAC technician ensures that heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems function correctly. Some focus on installing new systems, while others specialize in repairs or maintenance. These technicians can also differ based on their industry, whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial work. Roles can vary in seniority, with some requiring more hands-on expertise and others focusing on system design and engineering.

Common HVAC technician roles include:

• HVAC installer: These professionals specialize in installing HVAC systems in new buildings or during renovations.
• HVAC service technician: These professionals focus on troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repairing system malfunctions.
• Refrigeration technician: Typically referred to as HVAC/R technicians, they work primarily with refrigeration systems, such as commercial refrigerators or industrial freezers.
• HVAC maintenance technician: These technicians perform routine inspections and preventive maintenance to keep systems running efficiently.
• HVAC engineer: These engineers design and oversee large-scale HVAC projects, often in commercial or industrial settings.

Where to find HVAC technicians?

To find the right HVAC technicians for your company, consider the following hiring strategies:

• Industry trade shows: Events like the Canadian Mechanical & Plumbing Exposition (CMPX) attract HVAC professionals from across the country, providing networking opportunities to meet potential candidates.
• Trade associations: The Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) is an excellent resource for connecting with skilled HVAC technicians through its job board and member directory.
• Vocational schools: Many Canadian institutions, such as Humber College and BCIT, offer HVAC programs where you can recruit graduates trained in the latest techniques and systems.
• Internal promotions: If your company employs general maintenance or engineering staff, promoting from within to HVAC-specific roles can help build a loyal, well-rounded team.
• Posting your job listing online: Post your HVAC technician jobs on Indeed to find and attract qualified candidates.

Skills to look for in a good HVAC technician

The ideal candidate for an HVAC technician role usually has the following skills, attributes, and work experience:

• problem solving: ability to diagnose and troubleshoot HVAC issues effectively
• technical skills: skilled in operating, installing, and maintaining HVAC systems
• customer service: ability to communicate clearly and address client concerns professionally
• time management: ability to prioritize tasks and complete projects on time
• attention to detail: ability to ensure that all work complies with safety and industry standards
• physical stamina: ability to perform physically demanding tasks in various working conditions

Writing an HVAC technician job description

A thoughtful description is important for finding qualified HVAC technician candidates. An HVAC technician job description includes a compelling summary of the role, a detailed list of duties and responsibilities, and the required and preferred skills for the position.

When writing your HVAC technician job description, consider including some or all of the following keywords to improve the visibility of your job posting. These are the most popular search terms leading to clicks on HVAC technician jobs, according to Indeed data:

• HVAC system (or CVC system)
• HVAC technician
• HVAC apprentice
• apprentice
• HVAC helper
• gas technician
• refrigeration
• apprenticeship
• technician
• refrigeration apprentice

Interviewing HVAC technician candidates

Qualified candidates for HVAC technician roles will be capable of answering questions regarding:

• experience in troubleshooting and repairing HVAC systems
• knowledge of HVAC regulations, codes, and safety protocols
• ability to work independently and manage time effectively
• customer service experience and communication skills
• handling and diagnosing complex or urgent system issues

Need help coming up with interview questions? See our list of HVAC technician interview questions for examples (with sample answers).