For Educators: Military Resources
Military Heating and Cooling Mechanics
Median Salary
78,765
Workforce Count
29,176
Overview
What are the responsibilities of this role?
Heating and cooling mechanics are responsible for providing the Military with technical and mechanical services regarding heating, cooling, and related systems. They install, operate, and perform inspections, testing, troubleshooting, and repairs on malfunctioning systems. They perform maintenance and quality control functions, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. They supervise and provide guidance to subordinates and they provide recommendations regarding installation and repair of HVAC/R and related systems.
What is the work environment like?
Heating and cooling mechanics may work inside repair shops. Frequently, they work wherever equipment is to be installed or repaired.
How many people have this role in the Military?
29,176
Compensation
Understanding How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you’ll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Always fixed based on rank and service time.
- Distributed monthly.
What is the typical salary range?
Salary by Years of Service
$96,116
2 Years
$71,294
6 Years
$96,116
10+ Years
Median Salary
Military Details
What Service Branches offer this role?
Is this a staff or leadership role?
Enlisted service members execute vital tasks, support operations alongside officers and develop role-specific skills to achieve mission success.
Learn More About Enlisted and Officer PathsWhat does the training for this role entail?
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Job training for heating and cooling mechanics consists of classroom and on the job instruction, including hands-on practice in repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. Training content may include:
- Refrigeration theory
- Installation and repair of refrigeration and air conditioning units
- Installation and repair of furnaces and boilers
- Use of diagrams and blueprints
- Preventive maintenance of environmental control units
- Procedures for the safe handling of hazardous materials
Education
What level of education do professionals in this role have?
Which college majors best prepare you for this role?
- Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineering Technology/Technician
- Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician
Learn About How Military Can Pay for 100% of your College Degree
The Military has several programs that cover college costs — so you can pursue your education with little to no debt.
Learn More About Paying For CollegeSkills and Interest
What knowledge is essential to bring to the table?
- Mechanical
- Building and Construction
- Customer and Personal Service
- Engineering and Technology
- Mathematics
What personality traits help people thrive in this role?
Realistic
You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.
Conventional
You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.
RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.
Take the RIASEC Test