Introduction
In Idaho, the need for climate-control systems is essential due to the state's diverse weather conditions, ranging from harsh winters to scorching summers. These extreme weather patterns make Idaho an ideal location to pursue a career in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
Beyond the climate, Idaho offers substantial support for HVAC professionals through local unions and industry organizations. For example, the Plumbers & Pipefitters UA Local 296, based in Meridian, provides its members with numerous benefits, including ongoing training, networking opportunities, job listings, and community events. This support network helps ensure that HVAC technicians remain current with industry standards and practices.
Another option for HVAC technicians in Idaho is the Sheet Metal Workers’ Union Local #55. With offices in Boise, as well as in Spokane and Pasco, Washington, this union offers similar benefits. It also features a comprehensive apprenticeship program, which provides aspiring HVAC technicians with the hands-on training and theoretical knowledge needed to excel in the industry.
Demand for HVAC Technicians in Idaho
The HVAC industry is experiencing a significant growth trend across the United States, including Idaho. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that there were 344,020 HVAC technicians employed nationally as of May 2021. The demand for these professionals is expected to grow by 5 percent from 2021 to 2031, adding approximately 20,200 new jobs nationwide.
In Idaho, the growth rate is even more robust. Projections Central estimates a 15.7 percent increase in HVAC jobs in Idaho from 2020 to 2030. This substantial growth highlights the state's expanding need for skilled HVAC technicians.
Several factors contribute to this increasing demand:
- Regulatory Changes: Ongoing changes in HVAC regulations necessitate skilled technicians to ensure compliance and to upgrade existing systems.
- New Construction: Virtually all new buildings in Idaho are constructed with HVAC systems, requiring professional installation and maintenance.
- System Lifespan: HVAC systems typically need replacement every 10 to 15 years, ensuring a steady demand for skilled workers for installation and maintenance services.
The current job market reflects this demand. A recent search on job boards revealed numerous openings for HVAC technicians in Idaho. For instance, Monster listed several job opportunities with companies such as Terry’s Heating & A/C, Inc., and Western Heating and Air Conditioning. Similarly, Indeed displayed numerous listings from companies like Johnson Controls, Micron Technology, and Trane Technologies.
Schools in Idaho
College of Eastern Idaho
1600 S 25th E
Idaho Falls, Idaho 83404-5788
Phone: (208) 535-3000 x3371
URL: www.cei.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a small city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 2333
- Total Faculty: 154
Lewis-Clark State College
500 8th Ave
Lewiston, Idaho 83501-2698
Phone: (208) 792-5272
URL: www.lcsc.edu/
This school is a 4 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate, Associate's degree, Two but less than 4 years certificate|Bachelor's degree|Postbaccalaureate certificate. The campus is located in a small city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 3746
- Total Faculty: 203
North Idaho College
1000 West Garden Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83814-2199
Phone: (208) 769-3300
URL: www.nic.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate, Associate's degree, Two but less than 4 years certificate. The campus is located in a small city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 4296
- Total Faculty: 279
College of Southern Idaho
315 Falls Ave.
Twin Falls, Idaho 83301
Phone: (208) 733-9554
URL: www.csi.edu/
This school is a 4 year primarily associate's Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree|Bachelor's degree. The campus is located in a remote town with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 8096
- Total Faculty: 354
HVAC Worker Salaries in Idaho
The BLS (May 2023) reported that nationally HVAC/R mechanics and installers receive a median salary of $53,410 annually. Idaho HVAC/R technicians earn slightly less, as their annual median wage was $49,120.
In more detail, here were the annual wage percentiles for HVAC professionals across the country and across Idaho (BLS May 2023):
| Percentile | United States | Idaho |
|---|---|---|
| Number of HVAC Professionals Employed | 365,300 | 3,200 |
| Annual Mean Wage | $57,460 | $46,680 |
| 10th Percentile | $36,170 | $29,570 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,100 | $33,570 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $53,410 | $43,120 |
| 75th Percentile | $65,630 | $55,170 |
| 90th Percentile | $82,630 | $64,960 |
The national figures were slightly different according to another source of data, ZipRecruiter (May 2024), which relies on self-reported salaries. Among the HVAC workers reporting their annual salaries, ZipRecruiter found these percentiles:
- 10th percentile: $43,300
- 50th percentile (median): $51,601
- 75th percentile: $62,600
HVAC Certification and Licensing in Idaho
To remain in compliance with the law, HVAC technicians who work with refrigerants must maintain active EPA Section 608 Certification. This certification is broken down into four categories: Type 1 (small appliances), Type 2 (high-pressure appliances), Type 3 (low-pressure appliances), and Type 4 (universal).
Additionally, several skill-based HVAC certifications are available to professionals in the field. These include certifications from organizations such as:
- Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association (RETA): Certified Assistant Refrigeration Operator (CARO)
- North American Technician Excellence (NATE): Industry Competency Exams (ICE)
- HVAC Excellence: Heating, Electrical, Air Conditioning Technology Plus (HEAT+)
While specific certifications are not always required for employment, they can enhance job prospects and demonstrate expertise.
All aspiring HVAC technicians in Idaho must obtain the proper local licensure before starting any work in the field. Licenses are issued by the Idaho Division of Building Safety in the following categories:
- Apprentice
- Journeyman HVAC
- HVAC Contractor
- Specialty HVAC Apprentice
- Specialty Journeyman HVAC
- Specialty HVAC Contractor
The requirements for each license vary. Generally, applicants must submit an application with proof of work experience and/or completion of a training program. Once approved, applicants must pass a relevant examination. After passing the exam, the license is issued upon payment of a licensing fee and submission of an additional Compliance Bond.