If you want to become a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) project engineer, you will need intensive training in HVAC technology and some schooling in mechanical engineering. There are three basic routes to a job in HVAC engineering: an associate’s degree program in HVAC engineering, a bachelor’s degree in HVAC engineering, or a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and additional training in HVAC systems and design. Experience designing or repairing HVAC systems can also be very helpful in landing a job in HVAC engineering and manufacturing, so it’s a good idea to get a job in the HVAC industry before, after, or while you are attending school.
If you’re looking for the quickest way to become an HVAC project engineer, you can attend a two-year associate’s degree program in HVAC design or engineering at a technical or community college. There are also certification programs available from colleges that will certify you in HVAC design. This route to an HVAC job in engineering is a good idea for someone who has been working in the industry as an HVAC technician or other entry level position and wishes to further their career.
A bachelor’s degree in HVAC engineering from a university, technical college, or community college can also help you become an HVAC project engineer. Bachelor’s degree programs generally take up to four years, and they offer more intensive training in heating and cooling system design as well as mechanical engineering. In addition to HVAC system design, an HVAC engineering program will generally include background subjects like the math and physics, basic mechanical engineering, and computer aided design.
You can also become a HVAC project engineer with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and then attending HVAC systems training. An engineering degree will prepare you for a job as a mechanical engineer, and training in HVAC design from a technical school or community college can give you industry-specific knowledge. A background in mechanical engineering will give you the scientific knowledge to design an efficient heating or cooling system.
Once you have completed training in HVAC systems and engineering, you can become an HVAC project engineer with many different companies. HVAC project engineers can work with HVAC manufacturers, with an engineering company or HVAC installation and repair company, or as a consultant or independent contractor working with clients directly. Once you become an HVAC project engineer, you will design heating and cooling systems for many different kinds of clients and buildings, from residential to industrial.
