Enterprise AL HVAC Trade Jobs 2025 Salaries Training and Growth

Overview of HVAC Trade Careers in Enterprise, AL
If you're considering a career in the HVAC trade in Enterprise, AL, the outlook is promising. With 6,620 HVAC professionals currently employed statewide and an increasing number of local job openings, there is a strong demand for skilled technicians ¹. In Enterprise alone, there are 32 current job openings for experienced HVAC technicians and 31 entry-level positions, with wages ranging from $17 to $57 per hour, reflecting opportunities for various skill levels ²³. To explore more job listings, check out ZipRecruiter for entry-level HVAC jobs.
To become certified, you must complete 3,000 hours of work under a licensed contractor and pass the state exam, with an average hourly wage of $16.12 for entry-level installers in Enterprise ⁴. Alabama does not require formal education, but completing a training program such as the 11-week HVAC Fast Track at Bevill State Community College or a course at the Alabama Power HVAC Training Center can significantly enhance your qualifications ⁵². For additional salary data, visit Talent.com for HVAC salaries in Alabama.
With the industry expected to grow and the Heating & Air-Conditioning Contractors industry projected to reach $1.8 billion in Alabama by 2025, pursuing an HVAC career in Enterprise offers solid job prospects and financial stability ⁶. Keep reading to explore the certification process, training options, and career outlook in detail. For job outlook insights, refer to ServiceTitan's HVAC job projections.

Understanding the Role of an HVAC Technician

An HVAC technician installs, repairs, and maintains heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings ⁷. The job scope includes diagnosing system issues, replacing components, and ensuring proper functionality. In Enterprise, AL, professionals in this field must keep current with evolving technologies such as smart and energy-efficient systems, which require specialized handling and service techniques ⁵. For a detailed job description, see this resource on HVAC roles.
The job also demands physical stamina, problem-solving skills, and a strong understanding of HVAC systems. While technicians typically earn higher wages, entry-level installers can expect to start at a lower rate—around $16.12 per hour in Enterprise—though pay increases with experience and certifications ⁴. For those starting in installer roles, there are opportunities to grow into full HVAC technician positions with the right training and experience.

Do You Need a License or Certification to Work in HVAC in Enterprise, AL?

Yes, to work as an HVAC contractor in Enterprise, AL, you need a license from the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors ⁸. The state does not require formal education, but you must complete an apprenticeship and pass a licensing exam.
For license eligibility, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Complete 3,000 hours of documented experience under a licensed contractor or finish an approved training program
• Pass the state HVAC licensing exam with at least a 70% score
  Additionally, all licensed contractors must pay an annual fee of $220, obtain a $15,000 performance bond, and pass a criminal background check ⁸. For more on Alabama licensing details, visit ServiceTitan's Alabama HVAC licensing page.
  For technicians seeking continuing education, at least four hours of approved continuing education per year are required to maintain licensure ⁴. To help you understand the pathways to a licensed HVAC career, check out the Alabama Power HVAC Training Center for exam prep and industry-standard certifications.

HVAC Training and Apprenticeship Options in Enterprise, AL

While Enterprise itself does not have dedicated HVAC training programs, there are several pathways for aspiring technicians looking to enter the field. One of the closest and most comprehensive options is the Alabama Power HVAC Training Center in Jasper, AL. This facility provides hands-on instruction in refrigeration, HVAC fundamentals, and exam preparation for the Alabama HVAC Contractor Exam ². For additional HVAC apprenticeship opportunities, explore Indeed's job search for HVAC in Enterprise.
In addition to core HVAC training, the center also offers specialized courses for NATE certification, Duct and Envelope Tightness (DET) Verifier, and refrigerant handling ⁵.
For a more accelerated route, aspiring technicians can enroll in Bevill State Community College’s HVAC Fast Track program, in partnership with Alabama Power. This 11-week, full-time, non-credit course prepares students for immediate employment in the HVAC industry. The curriculum includes both traditional and advanced training techniques, with instructors from the HVAC sector ensuring real-world applicability ⁵. Graduates of the program receive support in resume writing and interview preparation.
Online certification programs, such as Ed2Go’s HVAC/R Certified Technician course, offer flexibility for those who prefer self-paced learning. These programs cover essential industry knowledge, including troubleshooting, system diagnostics, and refrigerant handling, which can significantly improve job prospects in the field ⁸.

Steps to Becoming an HVAC Technician in Enterprise, AL

To begin your HVAC career in Enterprise, AL, follow these structured steps to meet state requirements and build essential job skills.

1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements:

   • Be at least 18 years old
   • Possess a Social Security Number and a valid driver's license or U.S. ID
   • Have no restrictions that would disqualify you from employment or licensure

2. Register as an HVAC Apprentice:

   • Submit the AA-1 apprenticeship application to the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors
   • Provide proof of citizenship, a supervisor’s license number, and contact information
   • Pay the $25 registration fee

3. Complete 3,000 Hours of Documented Work Experience:

   • Gain hands-on experience by working under a licensed HVAC or refrigeration contractor
   • Obtain an affidavit (EA-4) from your employer documenting your hours

4. Apply for HVAC Contractor Licensing:

   • Submit the EA-1 HVAC contractor exam application
   • Provide documentation of your experience or completed training program
   • Pass the state exam with at least a 70% score

5. Complete Additional Licensing Requirements:

   • Pay the $220 annual license fee
   • Submit to a criminal background check
   • Secure a $15,000 performance bond

6. Maintain Your Licensing with Continuing Education:

   • Complete four hours of approved continuing education annually to keep your license active

By following these steps and taking advantage of local training opportunities like the Alabama Power HVAC Training Center or Bevill State Community College's HVAC Fast Track program, you can establish a rewarding career in the growing HVAC trade.

HVAC Career Prospects and Challenges in Enterprise, AL

The HVAC industry in Enterprise, AL, is experiencing steady growth, with the state HVAC market projected to reach $1.8 billion by 2025 and annual job openings nationwide averaging 37,700 through 2032 ¹⁹. The transition to smart and energy-efficient systems has increased the demand for technologically skilled professionals, making training programs like the Alabama Power HVAC Training Center highly valuable ². For detailed salary comparisons, check out ZipRecruiter for HVAC technician salaries in Alabama. In Enterprise specifically, there are 32 current job openings for experienced HVAC technicians, with hourly pay ranging from $17 to $57, indicating strong wage variation across experience levels ³.
Despite these positive trends, the industry faces challenges. The EPA’s ban on high-GWP refrigerants, effective in 2025, is leading to a transition away from R-410A, requiring technicians to be proficient in newer, eco-friendly refrigerants ⁵. Additionally, a national labor shortage of 110,000 unfilled positions by 2025 has put pressure on training programs and employers to fill the workforce pipeline ⁴. To stay competitive, aspiring HVAC professionals should seek out NATE-certified programs, EPA 608 Refrigerant Handling certification, and gain expertise in smart HVAC technologies.

Your Next Steps Toward an HVAC Career in Enterprise, AL

With a growing number of HVAC job opportunities in Enterprise, AL, and a favorable salary range of $17 to $57 per hour, now is an ideal time to start your career in this in-demand trade ³. Whether you're just beginning or looking to advance your skills, training programs such as the Alabama Power HVAC Training Center or Bevill State Community College’s HVAC Fast Track program can provide the necessary foundation ²⁵.
To take the next step, consider finding an HVAC apprenticeship to gain hands-on experience while preparing for your license exam. Use platforms like Gild to search for open HVAC apprenticeship roles in Enterprise, AL, and connect with local employers offering entry-level opportunities. If you're ready to jumpstart your HVAC career, start by finding an apprenticeship and taking the steps toward becoming a licensed professional in this dynamic industry.

HVAC Salaries in Enterprise, AL vs. National Averages

Understanding how HVAC wages in Enterprise, AL, compare to the rest of the country can help you set realistic expectations for your career. Below is a comparison of average hourly and annual pay for different HVAC roles based on local and national data:

This table shows that while entry-level HVAC installers in Enterprise earn below the Alabama average, experienced technicians typically see higher compensation as they progress in their careers. Additionally, Alabama technician salaries fall within the lower end of the national average, making it a competitive entryway for those new to the trade. With the growing demand and available sign-on bonuses in the field ⁷, aspiring HVAC professionals have strong opportunities for financial growth in the region.

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