HVAC Technician at CRS Refrigeration Specialists, Inc.

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at CRS Refrigeration Specialists, Inc. in N Billerica, MA

About This Program

CRS Refrigeration Specialists, Inc. sponsors this non-union HVAC Technician apprenticeship in North Billerica, Massachusetts. This employer-sponsored, time-based program offers a paid entry into the HVAC and commercial refrigeration trade, with training delivered under experienced specialists working on real-world systems.

The four-year apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training paired with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop skills in refrigeration system installation and repair, HVAC maintenance, and equipment diagnostics across commercial and light industrial environments. Classroom instruction covers refrigeration cycles, electrical systems, controls, refrigerant handling regulations, and safety procedures.

Graduates complete the program with journey-level HVAC technician credentials and the skills needed to work independently in refrigeration and HVAC roles. North Billerica's position in Greater Boston's northern suburbs puts graduates within reach of a broad and active market for skilled refrigeration and HVAC professionals.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$26

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

8,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

576

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

4 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.

HVAC Technician Career Outlook

National Median

$25.95/hr

~$53,976/yr

Apprentice Start

$16/hr

Earn while you learn

Job Outlook

HVAC technician employment is projected to grow faster than average, driven by new construction, system replacements, and the transition to energy-efficient and environmentally friendly equipment. The push toward heat pumps and smart building systems is creating new specialization opportunities. Experienced technicians with strong troubleshooting skills are in high demand across all regions.

What to Expect as a HVAC Technician Apprentice

Duration

4 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction

On-the-Job Training

~40 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)

Classroom Instruction

576 hours of related technical instruction (~144 hours/year)

Paid Training

You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress

Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for HVAC Technician

Apprenticeship

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration4 years
Starting wage$16.00/hr
Journeyman wage$25.95/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

Licensing in Massachusetts

HVAC Technicians in Massachusetts are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Massachusetts Board of Sheet Metal Workers.

View full Massachusettslicensing requirements →

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