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Hvac R Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HVAC REFRIGERATION MECHANIC II

Long Beach, CA

$25.50 - $34.75/hr

Summary The HVAC/R Mechanic II performs demand and scheduled preventive maintenance of the facility equipment to primarily include Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and associated ...

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Hvac R Apprentice information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do hvac r apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for hvac r apprentice in California is $19.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I be a HVAC apprentice?

Yes, individuals can become HVAC apprentices, typically starting at age 18 or older, and often need a high school diploma or equivalent. Apprenticeship programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and usually require a valid driver's license and physical ability to perform tasks in various environments.

What does a typical day look like for an HVAC R Apprentice?

As an HVAC R Apprentice, your typical day involves working under the supervision of licensed technicians to assist with installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. You'll be tasked with basic responsibilities such as carrying tools, measuring and cutting pipes or ductwork, cleaning system components, and learning diagnostic procedures. The work is often hands-on and may require travel to different job sites, both residential and commercial. Apprentices regularly collaborate with team members to ensure projects are completed safely and efficiently, providing a valuable opportunity to learn best industry practices on the job.

What is an HVAC-R Apprentice job?

An HVAC-R Apprentice works under the supervision of experienced technicians to learn heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC-R) systems. Responsibilities include assisting with installations, repairs, and maintenance of HVAC-R equipment while gaining hands-on experience. Apprentices typically follow a structured training program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job learning. This role provides essential skills and certifications needed to become a fully licensed HVAC-R technician.

Is 27 too late to start HVAC?

Starting as an HVAC R Apprentice at age 27 is not too late, as many apprentices begin in their late teens or early twenties. Success in the field depends on gaining technical skills, certifications, and hands-on experience, which can be achieved at any age with dedication.

Can HVAC make $100,000 a year?

HVAC R apprentices typically do not earn $100,000 annually during their training period. However, experienced HVAC technicians with several years of experience, certifications, and specialized skills can reach or exceed this income level, especially in high-demand areas or with overtime and supervisory roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Hvac R Apprentice position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an HVAC R Apprentice, you need a solid understanding of basic mechanical and electrical concepts, as well as a high school diploma or GED, often combined with enrollment in an apprenticeship program. Familiarity with hand and power tools, digital gauges, and refrigerant recovery systems is highly valued, and certain positions may require EPA certification for handling refrigerants. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn from experienced technicians set successful apprentices apart. These abilities are vital for safely installing, maintaining, and repairing HVACR systems while building a strong foundation for a future in the industry.

Is an HVAC apprenticeship worth it?

An HVAC R apprenticeship provides hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications, which can improve job prospects and earning potential. It typically lasts 3-5 years and combines paid work with classroom instruction, making it a valuable pathway into the HVAC trade.
What job categories do people searching Hvac R Apprentice jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Hvac R Apprentice jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Hvac R Apprentice jobs? Cities in California with the most Hvac R Apprentice job openings:
HVAC/R Maintenance Technician

HVAC/R Maintenance Technician

Associated Students

Long Beach, CA โ€ข On-site

$64K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

GENERAL STATEMENT

Under general supervision, the HVAC/R Maintenance Technician performs fieldwork in the installation, maintenance, modification, overhaul, service, repair of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) equipment within the ASI & Beach Shops shared services scope. To be successful in this role, customer satisfaction, initiative, and expertise are needed. Additionally, the HVAC/R Maintenance Technician must be patient and possess excellent organizational and troubleshooting skills. This includes working on split systems, package terminal air conditioners (PTAC), evaporative coolers, reverse cycle A/C units, reach-in and walk-in coolers and freezers, plumbing, electrical systems, and more.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  1. Under general supervision, troubleshoots, repairs, and modifies electrical circuits, panels, lighting controls, and receptacles, including new branch circuits and the use of diagnostic circuit tracing equipment.
  2. Provide customer service support during every service call.
  3. Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain HVAC/R equipment.
  4. Perform preventive maintenance and manufacturer warranty service.
  5. Install, calibrate, and maintain HVAC/R equipment.
  6. Coordinates schedule with other Facility Maintenance Technicians for on-call times and will be able respond to โ€œafter-hoursโ€ calls for maintenance assistance. Will periodically be required to work overtime as needed and determined by supervisor. Respond to emergency service calls, including nights and weekends on a rotating on-call basis.
  7. Maintain accurate records of work performed, parts used, and service recommendations.
  8. Communicate effectively with customers, coworkers, and internal dispatch teams.
  9. Participate in ongoing technical training and safety programs.
  10. Under the direction of a supervisor, facilitates special projects with outside contractors, including job walks, contractor coordination, project scheduling, and oversight.
  11. Ensure installations, repairs, and maintenance are performed with quality and meet health and safety, as well as environmental protection, requirements.
  12. Drives company vehicles as needed or directed by supervisor for organizational needs. May be called upon to use a forklift, aerial lift, or electric cart to complete duties.
  13. Performs assigned general repairs and preventative maintenance, provides occasional support for general facilities maintenance through inspection and upkeep of building systems, equipment, and finishes across multiple trades, such as electrical, mechanical, plumbing, carpentry, and surface or structural maintenance, and identifies and reports special problems or conditions to the supervisor for needs assessment.
  14. Other duties as assigned, reasonably within the scope of the job.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and/or Experience

High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of three years of experience in repairing commercial gas, electrical, and steam equipment. Additionally, at least one year of experience specifically in the repair of HVAC/R equipment, including mechanical, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration, and boiler systems. Completion of a recognized apprentice training program in a skilled trade (e.g., electrician, refrigeration, plumbing) preferred. Training with Carrier, York, Daikin, True, Hoshizaki, and Traulsen equipment is preferred.

Knowledge and Abilities

Thorough knowledge of specific methods, materials, practices, and tools related to installation, maintenance, modification, overhaul, service, and repair of commercial food service equipment. General knowledge of facilities systems maintenance and repair in such areas as plumbing, HVAC, electrical, carpentry, painting, and mechanical systems. Must possess semi-skilled and basic skilled knowledge across multiple trades, general knowledge of applicable trade safety practices; working knowledge of building codes; basic knowledge of electrical theory and mechanical principles. Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred.

Ability to read, interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and blueprints. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the public. Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Current California Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record as determined by ASI.
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification.
  • California Food Handler Card or the ability to obtain the CA Food Handler Card within the first 30 days of employment.
  • CPR/First Aid/AED certification or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment.
  • CFESA Certification (preferred).
  • EPA Universal Refrigerant Technician Certification (preferred).
  • State Refrigeration Licenses (preferred).
OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and willing to travel and work independently.

Schedule

Shift schedule may include evenings and weekends. Availability for on-call and emergency service rotations is required.

Background Check

Appointment to this position is contingent upon successful completion of a comprehensive background check based on reportable last actions.

Mandated Reporter

The person holding this position is considered a 'mandated reporter' under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand for extend periods; walk throughout the facility; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to utilize sense of smell. The employee is occasionally required to sit for extended periods. The employee must frequently lift and/or move 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; outside weather conditions; risk of electrical shock; and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, extreme cold, and extreme heat. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.

Note: This is a union position. Please contact Human Resources with questions.


Work Schedule: The initial training period will follow a Mondayโ€“Friday schedule from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM. After training, the regular schedule will be Thursdayโ€“Monday, 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with flexibility to adjust for larger projects and preventive maintenance cycles, which may require shifts such as Thursdayโ€“Monday, 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM. All schedules are subject to change based on departmental needs.