1

Union Apprentice Jobs in Topeka, KS (NOW HIRING)

Commercial HVAC Service Technician

Topeka, KS · On-site

$28.25 - $36.75/hr

Willing to be registered through the local union. * 5 years' service experience specific to ... Successful completion of a UA Apprenticeship Program. * Chiller experience helpful. Physical and/or ...

Union Apprentice information

See Topeka, KS salary details

$11

$20

$35

How much do union apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for union apprentice in Topeka, KS is $20.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How can I get a union apprenticeship?

To get a union apprenticeship as a Union Apprentice, you typically need to meet age and education requirements, complete an application, and pass an entrance exam or interview. Applicants often must be physically capable of performing the work and may need to provide references or proof of basic skills. Once accepted, apprentices usually undergo paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction over several years.

What does a union apprentice do?

As a union apprentice, your daily responsibilities will often include assisting experienced journeymen with hands-on tasks, preparing job sites, operating tools and machinery under supervision, and learning essential trade skills through practical experience. You will also attend scheduled classroom training sessions where you'll study safety protocols, trade theory, and industry best practices. Collaboration is important, as you'll work closely with other apprentices and seasoned professionals, receiving feedback and gradually taking on more complex assignments as your skills develop. This structure ensures you gain a comprehensive understanding of the trade while building strong working relationships within your union team.

What is the difference between Union Apprentice vs Electrician?

AspectUnion ApprenticeElectrician
CredentialsApprenticeship program, on-the-job training, and classroom instructionJourneyman or master electrician license, certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial settings, regulated union environmentsConstruction, maintenance, industrial facilities, residential projects
Employer & Industry UsageUnion-based construction companies, electrical contractorsElectrical contractors, industrial firms, maintenance companies

Union Apprentices are in training programs that combine classroom learning with on-the-job experience, often working under supervision. Electricians are fully qualified professionals with licensing and certifications, capable of working independently. While apprentices are in the process of becoming electricians, both roles are integral to electrical work in various industries.

What is a union apprentice?

A union apprentice is an individual who is learning a skilled trade through a structured program managed by a labor union. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and allow apprentices to earn while they learn. Union apprenticeships are typically sponsored by joint labor-management committees and are designed to develop the skills needed for a specific trade, such as electrician, plumber, or carpenter. Upon completion, apprentices usually become journeymen and can work independently in their trade.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a union apprentice?

To thrive as a Union Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of trade skills, a high school diploma or GED, and often must meet specific union entry requirements. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety protocols, and sometimes OSHA certification are commonly required. Strong work ethic, eagerness to learn, teamwork, and good communication skills help apprentices excel in demanding environments. These attributes are vital for ensuring safety, skill development, and effective collaboration on job sites.
What are the most commonly searched types of Union jobs in Topeka, KS? The most popular types of Union jobs in Topeka, KS are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Apprentice jobs in Topeka, KS? For Union Apprentice jobs in Topeka, KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Apprentice jobs in Topeka, KS look for? The top searched job categories for Union Apprentice jobs in Topeka, KS are:
What cities near Topeka, KS are hiring for Union Apprentice jobs? Cities near Topeka, KS with the most Union Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Apprentice job openings in Topeka, KS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,108 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Commercial HVAC Service Technician

U.S. Engineering

Topeka, KS

$28.25 - $36.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Introduction

Do you believe no challenge is too complex to solve? You’ll fit right in at U.S. Engineering. We deliver award-winning mechanical contracting, construction, service, and maintenance solutions with a focus on performance and innovation. Our team of skilled and collaborative professionals drives every project from preconstruction through final testing, always aligned with our clients’ goals.

OverviewAs a Commercial HVAC Service Technician, you will be responsible for Servicing, troubleshooting, and cleaning heating and cooling equipment and the related (i.e., forced air, hydronic, split systems, package units, make up air and exhaust systems, controls). You will also be responsible for new installations including pump alignment, VFD, chillers, boilers, AHUs, and other HVAC related equipment.

Responsibilities

  • Build strong customer relationships with new and existing customers.
  • Work as liaison between engineers and owners’ representatives during commissioning efforts while protecting Company’s interest.
  • Provides preventive maintenance on heating and cooling systems.
  • Troubleshoots units that are not working and replaces parts that are defective.
  • Repairs refrigeration, air conditioning, heating, control systems, and humidity and temperature control systems.
  • Troubleshoot and repair all electrical and mechanical components of HVAC equipment.
  • Provides startups and troubleshooting for a variety of commercial HVAC systems, meets with customers, evaluates their needs, and makes recommendations.
  • Troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repairing of commercial/ industrial air conditioning and multi-zone heating and cooling systems.
  • Performs related work as assigned.
  • Performs preventative maintenance, site surveys, replacement, and modifications as needed or requested by customers.
  • Prepares for on-site installation and repairs by examining building layout, anticipating difficulties, gathering materials, and coordinating on-site work, as necessary.
  • Maintains vehicles by keeping records of service manuals, scheduling, and completing repairs and maintenance service.
  • Documents work by completing paperwork on each job and maintaining files.
  • Assist in the new construction installation of HVAC equipment and piping.
  • Keeps current all manufacturers’ products concerning installation, operation, maintenance, service, and repair.
  • Apply local HVAC codes in a practical manner on each job.
  • Work with inspectors, suppliers, and co-worker technicians to ensure correct project work while abiding by all codes.

RequirementsEducation:

  • High school diploma/GED. 

Experience:
  • Willing to be registered through the local union.
  • 5 years’ service experience specific to Commercial and Industrial HVAC. 
  • Experience with chillers and boilers a plus
  • Valid Driver’s License.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:
  • Ability to read, understand, and work from blueprints, specifications, and schematics.
  • Strong knowledge of HVAC, troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance.
  • Knowledge of basic electricity and electrical and control systems.
  • Ability to work independently, demonstrate initiative in servicing customers and maintaining positive customer relations.
  • Successful completion of a UA Apprenticeship Program.
  • Chiller experience helpful.

Physical and/or travel demands:  
  • Must have the necessary physical stamina; to include, but not limited to, long-term overhead HVAC work.
  • Must be able to work for extended hours or workdays.
  • Must be careful during work to avoid injury (get help lifting, steps and ladder safety, etc.).
  • Must be able to work with powered construction tools safely.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment physical and drug screen.
  • Must be able to pass drug screen at any given time during employment.


Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. To apply, please visit https://www.usengineering.com/careers/job-postings/.