Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
Low27.13%
Found in Industries:
Salary Range
Low (10th %)$37,270
Median$57,300
High (90th %)$84,250
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Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.
The occupation "Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers" has an automation risk of 27.1%, which reflects a moderate potential for automation relative to other skilled trades. The base risk is calculated at 27.5%, indicating that while some aspects of the job are susceptible to automation, a majority of the tasks still require human oversight and skill. This is due to the blend of physical hands-on work, the need for diagnostic interpretation, and the variable environments in which these technicians operate. Advancements in robotics and smart diagnostic tools contribute to the automation of repetitive or highly standardized tasks, but the diversity and unpredictability of real-world installations and repairs limit complete automation. The most automatable tasks in this occupation revolve around activities where precision and repetition are prominent. For instance, "Test electrical circuits or components for continuity, using electrical test equipment" lends itself well to automation since testing procedures can be standardized and performed by machines with minimal error. Similarly, "Comply with all applicable standards, policies, or procedures, such as safety procedures or the maintenance of a clean work area" can be addressed by automated checklists and cleaning robots. "Study blueprints, design specifications, or manufacturers' recommendations to ascertain the configuration of heating or cooling equipment components and to ensure the proper installation of components" involves information processing and decision-support systems, which are increasingly manageable by automated planning software and AI-driven design analysis. On the other hand, tasks that are more resistant to automation typically require adaptability, nuanced judgment, and manual dexterity. "Test pipes, lines, components, and connections for leaks" relies not only on specialized equipment but also on the expertise to interpret irregular data and conditions unique to every location. The process of "Repair or service heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to improve efficiency, such as by changing filters, cleaning ducts, and refilling non-toxic refrigerants" often necessitates customized solutions and adjustments in tight spaces, which are difficult for machines to handle autonomously. Finally, "Install or repair air purification systems, such as specialized filters or ultraviolet (UV) light purification systems" involves tasks in varied environments that seldom conform to a standard pattern, further complicating automation. The primary bottleneck skills for automation in this occupation are originality (2.8% and 2.6% levels), reflecting the importance of creative problem-solving and the ability to adapt to unique jobsite challenges, which current AI and robotics struggle to replicate.
Filter by Automatable Status
Test electrical circuits or components for continuity, using electrical test equipment.
Partially Automatable
Comply with all applicable standards, policies, or procedures, such as safety procedures or the maintenance of a clean work area.
Partially Automatable
Study blueprints, design specifications, or manufacturers' recommendations to ascertain the configuration of heating or cooling equipment components and to ensure the proper installation of components.
Partially Automatable
Discuss heating or cooling system malfunctions with users to isolate problems or to verify that repairs corrected malfunctions.
Partially Automatable
Connect heating or air conditioning equipment to fuel, water, or refrigerant source to form complete circuit.
Non-Automatable
Adjust system controls to settings recommended by manufacturer to balance system.
Automatable
Inspect and test systems to verify system compliance with plans and specifications or to detect and locate malfunctions.
Partially Automatable
Repair or replace defective equipment, components, or wiring.
Non-Automatable
Install or repair self-contained ground source heat pumps or hybrid ground or air source heat pumps to minimize carbon-based energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions.
Non-Automatable
Install, connect, or adjust thermostats, humidistats, or timers.
Non-Automatable
Install auxiliary components to heating or cooling equipment, such as expansion or discharge valves, air ducts, pipes, blowers, dampers, flues, or stokers.
Non-Automatable
Braze or solder parts to repair defective joints and leaks.
Non-Automatable
Lay out and connect electrical wiring between controls and equipment, according to wiring diagrams, using electrician's hand tools.
Non-Automatable
Perform mechanical overhauls and refrigerant reclaiming.
Non-Automatable
Install expansion and control valves, using acetylene torches and wrenches.
Non-Automatable
Measure, cut, thread, or bend pipe or tubing, using pipe fitter's tools.
Non-Automatable
Mount compressor, condenser, and other components in specified locations on frames, using hand tools and acetylene welding equipment.
Non-Automatable
Install dehumidifiers or related equipment for spaces that require cool, dry air to operate efficiently, such as computer rooms.
Non-Automatable
Keep records of repairs and replacements made and causes of malfunctions.
Automatable
Cut or drill holes in floors, walls, or roof to install equipment, using power saws or drills.
Non-Automatable
Schedule work with customers and initiate work orders, house requisitions, and orders from stock.
Automatable
Supervise and instruct assistants.
Non-Automatable
Lay out reference points for installation of structural and functional components, using measuring instruments.
Partially Automatable
Lift and align components into position, using hoist or block and tackle.
Partially Automatable
Install or repair air purification systems, such as specialized filters or ultraviolet (UV) light purification systems.
Non-Automatable
Test pipes, lines, components, and connections for leaks.
Partially Automatable
Recommend, develop, or perform preventive or general maintenance procedures, such as cleaning, power-washing, or vacuuming equipment, oiling parts, or changing filters.
Partially Automatable
Record and report time, materials, faults, deficiencies, or other unusual occurrences on work orders.
Partially Automatable
Estimate, order, pick up, deliver, and install materials and supplies needed to maintain equipment in good working condition.
Partially Automatable
Repair or service heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to improve efficiency, such as by changing filters, cleaning ducts, and refilling non-toxic refrigerants.
Non-Automatable
Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningCritical ThinkingComplex Problem SolvingOperations MonitoringQuality Control AnalysisSystems EvaluationManagement of Personnel ResourcesWritingSpeakingMathematicsScienceActive LearningLearning StrategiesMonitoringSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationPersuasionNegotiationInstructingService OrientationOperations AnalysisTechnology DesignEquipment SelectionInstallationProgrammingOperation and ControlEquipment MaintenanceTroubleshootingRepairingJudgment and Decision MakingSystems AnalysisTime ManagementManagement of Financial ResourcesManagement of Material Resources
Arm-Hand SteadinessAuditory AttentionCategory FlexibilityControl PrecisionDeductive ReasoningDepth PerceptionDynamic FlexibilityDynamic StrengthExplosive StrengthExtent FlexibilityFar VisionFinger DexterityFlexibility of ClosureFluency of IdeasGlare SensitivityGross Body CoordinationGross Body EquilibriumHearing SensitivityInductive ReasoningInformation OrderingManual DexterityMathematical ReasoningMemorizationMultilimb CoordinationNear VisionNight VisionNumber FacilityOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionOriginalityPerceptual SpeedPeripheral VisionProblem SensitivityRate ControlReaction TimeResponse OrientationSelective AttentionSound LocalizationSpatial OrientationSpeech ClaritySpeech RecognitionSpeed of ClosureSpeed of Limb MovementStaminaStatic StrengthTime SharingTrunk StrengthVisual Color DiscriminationVisualizationWrist-Finger SpeedWritten ComprehensionWritten Expression
Administration and ManagementAdministrativeEconomics and AccountingCustomer and Personal ServicePersonnel and Human ResourcesProduction and ProcessingFood ProductionComputers and ElectronicsEngineering and TechnologyDesignBuilding and ConstructionMechanicalMathematicsPhysicsChemistryBiologyPsychologySociology and AnthropologyHistory and ArcheologyPhilosophy and TheologyPublic Safety and SecurityLaw and GovernmentTelecommunicationsCommunications and MediaTransportationGeographyMedicine and DentistryForeign LanguageEnglish LanguageFine ArtsEducation and TrainingTherapy and CounselingSales and Marketing
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsEstimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationGetting InformationIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsJudging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleProcessing InformationEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsAnalyzing Data or InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsThinking CreativelyUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeHandling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesOperating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentWorking with ComputersRepairing and Maintaining Electronic EquipmentDocumenting/Recording InformationDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkAssisting and Caring for OthersSelling or Influencing OthersRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentResolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersPerforming for or Working Directly with the PublicCoordinating the Work and Activities of OthersDeveloping and Building TeamsTraining and Teaching OthersGuiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesCoaching and Developing OthersProviding Consultation and Advice to OthersPerforming Administrative ActivitiesStaffing Organizational UnitsMonitoring and Controlling ResourcesDeveloping Objectives and StrategiesScheduling Work and ActivitiesPerforming General Physical Activities
Microsoft ExchangeAtlas Construction Business FormsContact management systemsAutodesk AutoCADAlerton Ascent CompassGraphics softwareCworks CMMSDelta Controls inteliWEBHoneywell WEBs-N4Microsoft PowerPointSAP softwareDatabase softwareIBM NotesInternet browser softwareData logging softwareComputerized maintenance management system CMMSHVAC tools softwareJohnson Controls MetasysManagerPlusMicrosoft OutlookBuilding automation softwareGraphics softwareInternet browser softwareCworks CMMSComputer aided design CAD softwareData logging softwareMicrosoft PowerPointSAP softwareDatabase softwareIBM NotesHoneywell WEBs-N4HVAC tools softwareManagerPlusFacility energy management softwareSiemens APOGEE Building Automation SoftwareMicrosoft OutlookAutodesk AutoCADIBM Maximo Asset ManagementComputer aided design CAD softwareSpreadsheet softwareSpreadsheet softwareComputerized maintenance management system CMMSContact management systemsAdobe AcrobatMicrosoft ExchangeAdobe AcrobatIBM Maximo Asset ManagementAtlas Construction Business FormsAlerton Ascent CompassDelta Controls inteliWEBJohnson Controls MetasysFacility energy management softwareBuilding automation softwareSiemens APOGEE Building Automation SoftwareMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft WordMicrosoft Word
Mechanical Engineers
Medium50.83%
Perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Medium52.65%
Design, develop, or evaluate energy-related projects or programs to reduce energy costs or improve energy efficiency during the designing, building, or remodeling stages of construction. May specialize in electrical systems; heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems; green buildings; lighting; air quality; or energy procurement.
Boilermakers
Low15.98%
Construct, assemble, maintain, and repair stationary steam boilers and boiler house auxiliaries. Align structures or plate sections to assemble boiler frame tanks or vats, following blueprints. Work involves use of hand and power tools, plumb bobs, levels, wedges, dogs, or turnbuckles. Assist in testing assembled vessels. Direct cleaning of boilers and boiler furnaces. Inspect and repair boiler fittings, such as safety valves, regulators, automatic-control mechanisms, water columns, and auxiliary machines.
Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall
Low7.42%
Line and cover structures with insulating materials. May work with batt, roll, or blown insulation materials.
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Low23.86%
Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipelines or pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. May install heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems. Includes sprinkler fitters.
Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians
Low23.46%
Install or repair solar energy systems designed to collect, store, and circulate solar-heated water for residential, commercial or industrial use.
Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers
Low25.44%
Repair, maintain, or install electric motors, wiring, or switches.
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment
Low26.36%
Install, adjust, or maintain mobile electronics communication equipment, including sound, sonar, security, navigation, and surveillance systems on trains, watercraft, or other mobile equipment.
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
Medium43.09%
Repair, test, adjust, or install electronic equipment, such as industrial controls, transmitters, and antennas.
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Low27.13%
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles.
Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door
Low30.04%
Install, repair, and maintain mechanical regulating and controlling devices, such as electric meters, gas regulators, thermostats, safety and flow valves, and other mechanical governors.
Home Appliance Repairers
Medium35.75%
Repair, adjust, or install all types of electric or gas household appliances, such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, and ovens.
Industrial Machinery Mechanics
Medium49.31%
Repair, install, adjust, or maintain industrial production and processing machinery or refinery and pipeline distribution systems. May also install, dismantle, or move machinery and heavy equipment according to plans.
Maintenance and Repair Workers, General
Low30.19%
Perform work involving the skills of two or more maintenance or craft occupations to keep machines, mechanical equipment, or the structure of a building in repair. Duties may involve pipe fitting; HVAC maintenance; insulating; welding; machining; carpentry; repairing electrical or mechanical equipment; installing, aligning, and balancing new equipment; and repairing buildings, floors, or stairs.
Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers
Low30.94%
Help installation, maintenance, and repair workers in maintenance, parts replacement, and repair of vehicles, industrial machinery, and electrical and electronic equipment. Perform duties such as furnishing tools, materials, and supplies to other workers; cleaning work area, machines, and tools; and holding materials or tools for other workers.
Geothermal Technicians
Medium39.03%
Perform technical activities at power plants or individual installations necessary for the generation of power from geothermal energy sources. Monitor and control operating activities at geothermal power generation facilities and perform maintenance and repairs as necessary. Install, test, and maintain residential and commercial geothermal heat pumps.
Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
Low28.35%
Assemble, fit, fasten, and install parts of airplanes, space vehicles, or missiles, such as tails, wings, fuselage, bulkheads, stabilizers, landing gear, rigging and control equipment, or heating and ventilating systems.
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Medium37.10%
Construct, assemble, or rebuild machines, such as engines, turbines, and similar equipment used in such industries as construction, extraction, textiles, and paper manufacturing.
Biomass Plant Technicians
Medium53.51%
Control and monitor biomass plant activities and perform maintenance as needed.
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
Medium43.49%
Operate or maintain stationary engines, boilers, or other mechanical equipment to provide utilities for buildings or industrial processes. Operate equipment such as steam engines, generators, motors, turbines, and steam boilers.
Solar Photovoltaic Installers
Medium38.95%
Assemble, install, or maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on roofs or other structures in compliance with site assessment and schematics. May include measuring, cutting, assembling, and bolting structural framing and solar modules. May perform minor electrical work such as current checks.
Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers
Low23.42%
Assemble, install, repair, or maintain electric or hydraulic freight or passenger elevators, escalators, or dumbwaiters.
Weatherization Installers and Technicians
Medium33.33%
Perform a variety of activities to weatherize homes and make them more energy efficient. Duties include repairing windows, insulating ducts, and performing heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) work. May perform energy audits and advise clients on energy conservation measures.
Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians
Low17.42%
Diagnose, inspect, adjust, repair, or overhaul recreational vehicles including travel trailers. May specialize in maintaining gas, electrical, hydraulic, plumbing, or chassis/towing systems as well as repairing generators, appliances, and interior components. Includes workers who perform customized van conversions.
Mechanical Door Repairers
Low21.74%
Install, service, or repair automatic door mechanisms and hydraulic doors. Includes garage door mechanics.