HVAC technicians in Idaho work in homes, hospitals, and other buildings, installing and repairing heating and air conditioning systems. The occupation is physically demanding, as professionals are usually expected to work in cramped spaces or even under extreme temperatures.
Still, the demand for HVAC technicians in Idaho continues to increase, and resourceful individuals continue pursuing careers in this field. The following guide breaks down all the important criteria that candidates need to know to start a career in this field in the state.
We explore the educational requirements and licensing steps while listing top training programs and possible career outlooks regarding annual average salary and employment rate for the next decade.
How to Become an HVAC Technician in Idaho
Below are the steps involved in starting an HVAC technician career in Idaho.
Preparatory Requirements
To prepare for their careers and subsequent admission into a training program, candidates in Idaho may get into strong physical shape and prepare relevant credentials. These credentials typically include a high school diploma or GED and a valid identity document.
Academic Education
Students may choose between vocational schools and community colleges for their academic training as prospective HVAC technicians and between short-term certificate programs and associate degree programs.
Certificate options typically take 6 to a year, while associate degree programs usually last 18 months or 2 years.
We will provide relevant options in an upcoming section.
On-the-Job Training
On-the-job training as an aspiring HVAC technician can be obtained through union apprenticeships, non-union apprenticeships, and employer on-the-job training programs organized by top companies in the area. These programs typically include four years of education spanning both theoretical and practical principles.
Employment
Idaho residents who have completed their training may go on to secure employment after considering the licensing requirements below. At this point, they may also seriously consider choosing a specialty area and using it to distinguish themselves.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
HVAC technicians in Idaho must meet the requirements above to develop expertise in the field. They are also expected to receive a license before they can work legally as professionals.
The journeyman license is relevant for those just beginning a career after completing an apprenticeship program. It will allow them to carry out basic HVAC duties under a licensed contractor.
To qualify for this license, candidates should be prepared to pay the $35 application fee and the $75 licensing fee and pass relevant examinations.
To qualify for the contractor license, which will allow them to take on bigger contracts, candidates must provide proof of 2 years of experience as a journeyman and pay a $35 application fee. The license incurs a $150 fee that must be renewed annually.
Top HVAC Technician Schools in Idaho
The entries below are among Idaho’s best schools for prospective HVAC technicians.
College of Southern Idaho
Twin Falls, ID Campus Only
The College of Southern Idaho offers an HVAC technician training program with an associate of applied science degree, a basic technical certificate, and an intermediate technical certificate.
Tuition
$140 - $285 per CreditContact
(208) 732-6362
mlapray@csi.edu
North Idaho College
Post Falls, ID Campus Only
North Idaho College, accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, offers a month-long HVAC technology program with four-credit instructors.
Tuition
$141 - $364 per CreditContact
(208) 769-3333
nicworkforcetraining@nic.edu
Lewis-Clark State College
Lewiston, ID Campus Only
Lastly, at Lewis-Clark State College, aspiring HVAC technicians can pursue a 24-month associate of applied science degree program at Lewis-Clark State College. Those who would like a faster program can also choose the one-year certificate program.
Tuition
$389 per CreditContact
(208) 792-2220
tidoff@lcsc.edu
Explore HVAC technician schools in Idaho by City:
Salary & Career Outlook
HVAC technicians in Idaho are very well-rewarded regardless of which bracket they fall in or the state. Candidates may expect to find themselves in one of three brackets: the top-earning bracket, the low-earning bracket, and the median bracket.
The top earners will manage an annual average salary of $82,628, while the median earners will make an annual average salary of $53,610. Those finding their feet may end up with an annual average salary of $34, making them part of the low-earning bracket.
Location is factortors that may help candidates improve their earnings. Lewisiseing is the city where HVAC technicians in Idaho are paid the highest, with an annual average salary of $60,406.
Candidates in Boise are also competitively aided with an annual average salary of $59,931.