The HVAC industry in Tampa, FL, offers a compelling career path with $26.71 average hourly wages 12, a robust 16.9% projected job growth from 2022–2032 3, and over 247 active job postings on Indeed alone 1. Discover more about HVAC opportunities through HVAC Classes in Tampa, which lists top training programs. With training programs ranging from a 4-week fast track at South Florida Academy to a federally registered apprenticeship program through Hillsborough Community College 4, Tampa provides multiple pathways to enter this high-demand field.
| Quick Facts | Data |
|---|---|
| Average hourly wage | $26.71 12 |
| Entry- to mid-level annual salary | $45,760 3 |
| Top 10% annual salary | $61,820 3 |
| Training program lengths | 4 weeks - 22 months 5 |
| Projected FL job growth (2022-2032) | 16.9% 3 |
| Job openings (Indeed) | 247+ 1 |
HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. This tradesperson's work in Tampa spans residential, commercial, and industrial settings - critical in Florida's humid climate. Essential skills include:
This physically demanding profession requires technicians to carry tools weighing up to 50 lbs and work at heights. For more resources on career paths, check Gild's HVAC job listings.
While Florida doesn't mandate a state license for HVAC technicians, most employers require key certifications for professional credibility and legal work eligibility:
Tampa-based programs like those at South Florida Academy of Air Conditioning 6 include certification preparation. Learn more about specific programs through Hillsborough Schools' website. Continuing education ensures technicians stay current with evolving technology standards.
Tampa offers diverse HVAC education pathways tailored to different schedules and learning preferences:
Hillsborough Schools' HVAC/R Program:
South Florida Academy of Air Conditioning (SFAAC):
Erwin Technical College:
For cost-conscious learners, Faraday Careers offers free online HVAC training with apprenticeship connections to local companies 9. Explore additional training options on Indeed's HVAC training page.
The Hillsborough Community College (HCC) HVACR Technician Apprenticeship provides structured learning through Florida's federally recognized apprenticeship system 4. Participants work full-time for a sponsoring business while earning credentials.
Key benefits of apprenticeships:
To qualify:
Tampa's HVAC salaries reflect industry demand and specialized skills:
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $30,680 | $14.75/hr |
| 25% | $37,750 | $18.15/hr |
| 50% | $47,200 | $22.69/hr |
| 75% | $59,380 | $28.55/hr |
| 90% | $61,820 | $29.72/hr |
Experienced commercial technicians may earn over $120,000 annually with top employers 1. This growth reflects Florida's expanding population and construction boom. For detailed salary data, refer to ZipRecruiter's Tampa HVAC salaries.
No experience? No problem! Tampa offers multiple entry points:
Strategies for entry:
The technician shortage (projected 225,000 nationally by 2025)3 makes this an ideal time to enter the field.
Tampa's HVAC professionals enjoy diverse growth pathways:
Companies like ACS Home Services and Red Cap Plumbing & Air provide continuing education for advancement 2.
New technologies are reshaping Florida's HVAC landscape:
These changes drive a focus shift from installation to maintenance and repairs 3, with technicians needing to troubleshoot complex computerized systems.
Common barriers and solutions:
Financial Investment:
Physical Demands:
Time Commitment:
Job Security:
Starting an HVAC career in Tampa, FL positions you in a field with $26.71 hourly averages, 16.9% job growth projections 3, and clear advancement pathways. Whether you prefer the accelerated 4-week track 5 or structured apprenticeship experience, multiple routes suit different learning styles and life circumstances.
Take your next step:
📌 Find the right HVAC program across Florida through Gild's training directory
📌 Search Tampa-area openings on Gild's job board
📌 Get personalized guidance through Gild's career support resources
📌 Explore more training options on HVAC Classes
📌 Check current job listings on Indeed
Your HVAC career in Tampa starts with a single step - explore our resources today to launch this in-demand technical career.
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Entry-Level-Hvac-Technician-Salary-in-Tampa,FL ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Hvac-Technician-Salary-in-Tampa,FL ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
Average HVAC Salary in Tampa Bay (Annually & Hourly) | Faraday | Faraday ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9 ↩10 ↩11
https://www.hccfl.edu/academics/associate-science/apprenticeships/hvacr-technician-apprenticeship ↩ ↩2
https://sfaac.com/become-an-hvac-technician-tampa/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/tampa-fl-hvac-salary-SRCH_IL.0,8_IM850_KO9,13.htm ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.indeed.com/career/hvac-technician/salaries/Tampa--FL ↩ ↩2 ↩3
