Refrigeration mechanics fabricate, install, alter, repair and service equipment that freezes, cools and/or heats. This equipment is used in the industrial, commercial, institutional and residential sectors. They will also have a B Gas Fitter ticket when their apprenticeship is complete.

Responsibilities

  • Evacuate, charge, start up, inspect, operate, maintain and service mechanical systems and controls in heating, ventilation and air conditioning, including retrofits, solar systems, refrigeration and food store equipment
  • Apply knowledge of safe use and storage of refrigerants, leak prevention, reclamation and recycling of refrigerants
  • Comprehend schematic diagrams and troubleshooting
  • Measure, cut and connect piping using welding and brazing equipment
  • Recharge systems with refrigerant gases as required
  • Connect rooftop units to gas, test and balance systems and connect electrical systems
  • Use and adjust computerized controls & use computer software to calculate loads

What You’ll Need

Entrance Requirements

High School (recommended):
Grade 12 diploma, including:

  • English 12
  • Math 11 (applications of Math 11 or Principles of Math 11)
  • Physics 11 (preferred Grade 12 completion)

Apprenticeship Program:

4 years, includes 990 hours of technical training, 6,210 hours of on-the-job training, and exam. (Class B Gas Fitter licence requires an additional 1,500 hours of on-the-job training.) Journeyperson and Inter-Provincial Red Seal certification awarded after successful completion. As an apprentice, you also earn while you learn.

Key Skills & Attributes

(technical training and on the job)

  • Strong communication, reading & numeracy skills
  • Strong problem-solving & critical thinking
  • Physical fitness & ability to lift 25 kg
  • Mechanically inclined with manual dexterity
  • Ability to work outdoors in diverse weather
  • Ability to work independently
  • Ability to work well with others

Trade Card Info Sheets

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Hourly Pay

$65.80/hr

Projected Growth

(CONSTRUCTION LABOUR FORCE)

10% over the decade
compared to 2020*

*BuildForce Canada

You are a team player.

You enjoy doing precise work, expertly.

You are physically fit.

Did You Know?

Refrigeration mechanics need to be multi-talented to understand the wide range of equipment used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems.