Role overview (Canada)
HVAC teams in Canada typically split time between new installations and service work. Your day may include equipment replacement, commissioning, preventive maintenance, or urgent troubleshooting.
Pay (gross / brutto) — realistic ranges
The figures below are indicative gross hourly wages for HVAC mechanics/technicians. Actual offers depend on trade status, project type, overtime, shift premiums, and employer policy.
| Area | Low (CAD/h) | Median (CAD/h) | High (CAD/h) | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada (overall) | 22.00 | 37.50 | 56.00 | Baseline market range for NOC-aligned HVAC mechanic roles. |
| Ontario | 21.00 | 37.00 | 58.00 | Strong demand in major metros; higher ceilings for experienced service techs. |
| Quebec | 22.40 | 38.00 | 46.08 | Ranges vary by region and employer; trade proof matters. |
| Alberta | 25.00 | 40.00 | 54.00 | Commercial/industrial service often pays more (experience-sensitive). |
| British Columbia | 24.23 | 40.00 | 62.00 | Higher ceilings are typical for senior techs, lead installers, and specialty work. |
Core responsibilities
- Install, replace, and commission HVAC/HVACR equipment (residential or commercial).
- Perform diagnostics, leak checks, evacuation, charging, and functional testing.
- Run service calls: troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and repairs.
- Work with ductwork/piping, basic controls, thermostats, and start-up procedures.
Typical equipment & systems
- Heat pumps, split systems, air handlers, rooftop units (RTU)
- Ventilation, fans, filters, basic air balancing checks (scope depends on site)
- Refrigeration circuit tasks: recovery, vacuum, charging (as permitted by certification)
- Controls basics (BAS/BMS exposure is an asset)
Requirements (detailed)
Employers in Canada may be strict on safety, documentation, and trade proof. The checklist below is written to match typical screening standards for HVAC installer/technician hiring.
- Experience: verified HVAC installation and/or service experience (residential and/or commercial).
- Technical scope: confident diagnostics, component replacement, start-up, commissioning, and PM routines.
- Trade proof: apprenticeship history, trade certificate, or strong references/portfolio (province dependent).
- Safety mindset: PPE discipline, lockout/tagout habits, ladder/lift awareness, clean workmanship.
- Communication: practical English for instructions, reporting, and site coordination (level depends on employer).
Strong advantages (often decisive)
- Red Seal (where applicable) or equivalent documented trade progression
- Refrigerant handling/recovery authorization (province-specific)
- Controls/BAS exposure, troubleshooting under time pressure
- Valid driver’s licence (service roles), clean safety record
Work authorization & required documents (Canada)
Most foreign nationals need authorization to work in Canada. The exact pathway depends on the employer, province, and the type of permit used for the role.
Practical document checklist (typical)
- Valid passport (commonly expected: 12+ months validity).
- Employment contract / written job offer (required for many work-permit paths).
- Employer authorization reference (e.g., LMIA where required, or an LMIA-exempt employer offer number where applicable).
- Proof you are qualified: trade certificate/apprenticeship proof, references, and a detailed CV.
- Biometrics / medical exam may be required depending on country and case.
- Police certificate may be requested in some cases.
- Quebec-specific steps may apply if the job is located in Quebec.
This page is informational and does not replace official decisions by Canadian authorities or the employer’s compliance rules.
Working conditions in Canada (current expectations)
- Schedule: common patterns are 40 hours/week plus overtime during peaks (project deadlines, seasonal demand).
- Overtime: paid according to provincial rules and employer policy; shift premiums may apply on some sites.
- Weather reality: winter conditions are normal in many provinces—cold-weather readiness is part of the job.
- Safety culture: PPE and site rules are strict; repeated violations typically end assignments quickly.
- Mobility: some employers require travel between sites; service roles may require driving.
- Tools: employer may provide large equipment; technicians often bring personal hand tools (policy varies).
Short candidate portrait (what “good” looks like)
You are a practical HVAC technician who can work safely without constant supervision: you read the situation, diagnose logically, document what you did, and keep the site clean. You can handle installation tasks and also troubleshoot under time pressure (service calls, start-up issues, warranty-style checks). You communicate clearly, show up on time, and respect Canadian safety expectations.
How to apply (CV required)
- Create or upload your CV: mavial.pl/en/cv.html
- Include: HVAC scope (install/service), provinces you can work in, availability date, and certificates.
- Add proof of experience (references, project list, photos if available).
- Submit — we contact shortlisted candidates when a matching employer request is active.
Pay ranges are indicative gross wages. Final terms depend on province, employer, overtime, shift premiums, and verified experience.