HVAC Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) systems in residential and commercial settings. They diagnose electrical and mechanical faults, perform routine maintenance, and ensure systems operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with building codes. 
Key Responsibilities

• Install & Repair: Set up, replace, or repair HVAC/R systems, including compressors, motors, wiring, and ductwork.
• Troubleshoot: Diagnose electrical, mechanical, and refrigerant-related issues using diagnostic tools like pressure gauges, multimeters, and leak detectors.
• Preventive Maintenance: Conduct routine system inspections, clean ducts, change filters, and calibrate thermostats to optimize system performance.
• Compliance & Safety: Handle, recover, and recharge refrigerants in strict accordance with EPA regulations.
• Customer Service: Explain repair needs and preventive care to clients, and provide quotes for labor and materials.
• Documentation: Keep detailed records of service calls, parts used, and hours worked. 

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent, plus completion of an HVAC technical training program or a formal apprenticeship.
• Licensing & Certifications: EPA Section 608 Certification (required to handle refrigerants); NATE (North American Technician Excellence) or HVAC Excellence certifications are highly preferred.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in reading blueprints, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Soft Skills: Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and customer service skills.
• Physical Demands: Ability to lift heavy equipment, work in cramped/confined spaces (like attics or crawlspaces), and tolerate extreme weather conditions. 

Work Environment & Schedule
Most HVAC technicians work full-time, often traveling between residential homes or commercial buildings. Because HVAC emergencies spike during extreme heat or cold, the schedule frequently includes evening, weekend, or on-call shifts.