How Much Does an HVAC Refrigeration Mechanic Make in Virginia?

In 1771, John Murray, 4th Earl of Dunmore, was appointed to be the Royal Governor of Virginia in Williamsburg. Already governor of New York, Lord Dunmore sent a grievance to the King of England, complaining about, among other things, Virginia’s summer heat. Although Lord Dunmore left power centuries ago, his observation on Virginia’s stifling temperatures remain valid and even today, actively drive the HVAC Refrigeration Mechanic demand in Virginia.

A career in HVAC and/or refrigeration can be extremely rewarding.  If you’re already familiar with how HVACR systems work, then you’re on the right track.  If not, no worries.  Many jobs provide on-the-job assistance to help “green” technicians or mechanics learn the trade hands-on; however, considering a job as a refrigeration mechanic comes with a lot of questions, namely: how much does a refrigeration technician make?  We’ll try to answer this and give you a good idea of what you can potentially earn as a refrigeration or HVAC mechanic, what states have the best salaries, and where you can expect to earn the most working as an HVAC Refrigeration Mechanic.

How Much Do HVAC Refrigeration Mechanics Make in the US?

The simplest, and broadest answer may not necessarily be the most accurate.  HVAC and refrigeration mechanics are often compensated based on experience, technical skills, certifications, and education.  Starting mechanics will likely start at the lower end of most median salary estimates and climb with experience in the field.  Also, the specific position a mechanic has can also alter their pay.  For example, some service and sales technicians may be compensated based on sales commissions while installers may get paid on an hourly basis.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an HVACR mechanic can expect to earn a median annual salary of $45,110 or the equivalent to $21.69 per hour.  While these wages may sound attractive (and indeed, they are), keep in mind that many HVACR mechanics in demanding climates may experience long work weeks and additional overtime during the busy seasons of the year.

Leading States for Refrigeration Mechanics – Virginia is number 5

Jobs for HVACR mechanics are skewed towards states where high populations and extreme temperatures reign supreme.  These states may very well be opportune places to start a career in HVACR, but they don’t tell the whole story.

Employment per thousand jobs as well as the BLS location quotient—essentially, a measure of job density per physical location compared to the national average—can tell us much more about each state’s job market.  For example, these states lead in location quotient:

  1. Delaware
  2. Florida
  3. Maine
  4. Iowa
  5. Virginia

What this means is a higher concentration of jobs in a smaller area.  While these states may seem like idyllic destinations to start a career and a new life, the chances for landing a job in a saturated market may be challenging.

HVACR salaries in Virginia

With the heat index rising to over 100 degrees regularly during the summer there is a huge demand for HVACR technicians in the state. The average technician in Virginia makes around $47,850 per year, according to BLS data. This is above average for the country and a great opportunity for anyone interested in becoming a refrigeration mechanic.

How Much Does a Refrigeration Mechanic Make in Virginia?

Get Started with a Degree in HVAC/Refrigeration

Getting started with a career in HVACR shouldn’t be difficult, but getting an education directed towards this career field will certainly help.  If you’re interested in a career in HVACR, consider getting in touch with the Advanced Technology Institute, talk to an advisor, and learn more about how an HVAC Technology with Service Management (AOS) degree can get you started with a new career.

HVAC tech Training

DISCLAIMER – Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) makes no claim, warranty or guarantee as to actual employability or earning potential to current, past or future students or graduates of any educational program offered. The Advanced Technology Institute website is published for informational purposes only. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained on the AUTO.edu domain; however, no warranty of accuracy is made. No contractual rights, either expressed or implied, are created by its content.

Gainful Employment Information – HVAC Technology with Service Management (AOS)
Gainful Employment Information – Air Conditioning & Heating Technology (Diploma)

For more information about Advanced Technology Institute or any of our programs click here: http://www.auto.edu/ or http://ow.ly/VoydP.

Leave a comment