Did you know we are hiring? It’s true. We’re growing. But we’re not the only ones; many of our competitors across the Lehigh Valley and beyond are also looking for qualified HVAC technicians seeking a solid career that offers a good salary, benefits and job security.
In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for HVAC techs and installers is projected to grow 14 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Candidates familiar with computers and electronics and those with good troubleshooting skills will have the best job opportunities as employers continue to have difficulty finding qualified technicians to install, maintain, and repair complex new systems, the USBLS reports.
Part of it is an age issue. Baby boomers who are retiring are creating openings, but there is also growth in the industry thanks to the improving economy, renewed construction and even the need for replacement of aging systems and equipment that is now being replaced with much more environmentally efficient and energy-efficient technology.
Those new technologies now available in today’s marketplace mean older HVAC equipment is far less efficient than today’s models, which costs consumers more money to run and offer less comfort while creating potential hazards for the environment. In an effort to ‘go green’ while saving money and providing better comfort levels for their homes and workplaces, consumers are making the change to newer HVAC systems.
The other issue is that many young people today prefer to go into white collar careers, missing opportunities for a solid job that provides personal satisfaction, room for advancement and steady pay increases throughout your career. That’s why Burkholder’s works with apprenticeship programs and schools such as Lehigh Career and Technical Institute to help the next generation of HVAC techs learn the trade and begin their careers. Most of our techs work 40-hour weeks, though weekend shifts and other hours are sometimes required during our busy seasons, but our year-round installation and service business means job security for our successful candidates.
So what do you need for a successful career as an HVAC tech?
We look for candidates who demonstrate a proficiency in servicing, trouble-shooting and maintenance of heating and cooling equipment. We want people who know how to work with their hands and their heads, who can build strong relationships with our customers and who understand their needs and expectations.
You have to be able to handle the paperwork. Let’s face it, every job has its paperwork. We want reliable people who follow our standards, policies, procedures and safety requirement, such as the maintenance of a clean work area. You do need a driver’s license. You should be comfortable with computer programs such as MS Word, Excel and Outlook.
You have to be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; do some climbing and balancing; and the job does require frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and significant fine finger dexterity. You may also have to work in some uncomfortable temperatures, depending on the season and the job.
If you are a young person considering a career in HVAC, the recommended subjects in school that help prepare you include shop math, mechanical drawing, , electronics, blueprint reading, computer applications and even applied physics and chemistry.
If you can meet these requirements, a great career is waiting for you!
