How to Become a Refrigeration Mechanic / Technician
Overview & Salaries
Recommended Degree:
The right degree for you depends on the industry and company you apply for. Those looking for an entry positions need an HVAC-R certificate from a technical school , some states may require a specific license as well. If you are looking to get into a competitive or advance position, then a bachelor’s degree along with real world experience and earning specific licenses can help you stand out in the hiring process.
Start your career path today by signing up for free information from one of our accredited technical schools below that offer programs to help get you started as a refrigeration technician.
How Much Do Refrigeration Technicians Make:
$43,640 (national median salary, to view salaries in your state click on the “Best Places to Work” tab)
Expected Growth from 2012-2020:
+55,900 additional people employed
(all information above provided by the 2012 BLS Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic, Installers page)
Discover the Best Places to Become a Refrigeration Technician
Florida tops the list for the number of job opportunities in the nation, while offering a yearly mean wage of $40,720. Second in the country is Texas, with nearly as many positions available to those in the field, and a mean wage of $41,810 annually.
- Residential homes
- Schools
- Stores
- Hospitals
- Office buildings
- Factories
- Part of a trade contracting team
- Self-employed/business owner
Employment and Salary Information by State for Refrigeration Technicians
Use our interactive map below to find out which areas of the United States are currently experiencing the greatest amount of growth and job availability for graduates looking for a career in Refrigeration. All data has been derived from the 2012 Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Employment and Information Data for Refrigeration
Why You Should Become a Refrigeration Technician
The benefit of specializing in a niche trade such as refrigeration is that there will always be demand for professionals trained in fundamental services and repair. As both a domestic and business necessity, refrigeration is a steady job that offers unique challenges within the specialty, and allows opportunity for growth over time. Refrigeration specialists also have the opportunity to learn related skills, such as heating and air conditioning. As one part of a well-rounded set of trade skills, refrigeration can provide a steady career that opens the doors to expanded opportunities in related fields. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment of refrigeration installers is projected to grow 21 percent over the next 10 years, faster than most career averages.
Recommended Courses for Becoming a Refrigeration Technician
- Electricity & Electronics HVAC
- Fundamentals of Refrigeration
- Refrigeration Service Techniques
- Commercial Food Service Refrigeration
- Supermarket Refrigeration
Degrees Options to Help You Become a Refrigeration Technician
Refrigeration systems are very complex, and taking ownership of installation and repair of systems requires training and hands on experience. Knowledge of plumbing and electrical work and a basic understanding of electronics are also helpful. While universities do not typically offer two or four year degrees in trade professions, there are plenty of technical and trade schools where you can earn a certificate in as little as six months to a year.
Technical Certificate
Several schools and technical institutions offer an education in refrigeration techniques and knowledge. These programs provide students with the skills to enter the refrigeration field as well as careers in related industries. In addition to providing a challenging education, many schools offer job placement programs that help their graduates find an entry-level job or apprenticeship right away.