High School Diploma or GED.

Complete a formal training program.

Complete on-the-job training.

Some heating and cooling system mechanics complete a formal training program in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology. Community colleges offer these programs. They grant a diploma, certificate, or associate degree.

Also have apprenticeship training which consists of four years of on-the-job training. In addition, each year you receive at least 144 hours of classroom training.

Some branches of the military train people to be heating and cooling mechanics. Training lasts for eight to 22 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.

Usually work 40 hours per week.

Generally work a set schedule. However, they often work overtime or irregular hours during peak seasons.

HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM MECHANICS will:

Install and repair furnaces, air conditioning, and refrigeration units.

Use a variety of power, hand, and testing tools.

Read and interpret blueprints and manuals.

Work alone most of the time.

HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM MECHANICS frequently:

Use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.

Stand or walk for long periods of time.

Bend or twist their body.

Kneel, stoop, crouch or crawl.

Climb ladders, scaffolds, or poles.

It is important that HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM MECHANICS be able to:

Use fingers or hands to grasp, move or assemble objects.

Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.

See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.

Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.