Heating & Ventilation Fitter Career Profile

The Work

As a heating and ventilation fitter you would install and repair the following systems in homes and businesses:
heating refrigeration ventilation air conditioning fume extraction.

Your work could range from fitting air conditioning units in a department store, to installing large industrial boilers in a manufacturing plant.
Your duties would include:
following detailed installation plans showing where to fit pipework using tools and machinery to bend and shape parts, such as steel tubing joining together pipes and their casings (known as ductwork), for example, by welding wiring up systems to electrical control panels testing installations before they go into use answering call-outs to find and repair faults carrying out regular service and maintenance checks for customers.

You would work closely with ductwork installers who build and repair the ductwork that carries pipes and cabling in buildings.

Hours
You would normally work between 37 and 40 hours a week. You may be expected to work overtime and be on-call for emergencies. You would work on new developments and refurbishments. The work environment could be cramped and dusty, for example when installing pipework. Some tasks could be outside at heights and you would use ladders or scaffolding to reach these areas. Your employer would normally provide you with safety equipment.

Income
Starting salaries can be between £16,000 and £20,000 a year.
Experienced fitters can earn over £25,000 a year.

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Skills and Knowledgepractical skills for using tools a methodical approach to work excellent problem-solving skills good maths skills for making measurements and calculations the ability to follow detailed technical diagrams and building plans good teamworking skills a reasonable level of fitness a head for heights an understanding of health and safety.

Opportunities
Typical employers range from specialist heating and ventilation companies to local authorities. Self-employment is another option. It is also common for several fitters to work together for a company, on a sub-contract basis.

With experience, you could be promoted to foreman/forewoman or site supervisor. With further qualifications, such as a foundation degree, HND or degree, you could find work as an engineering technician, contract manager or design engineer.

Sign up now for the BTEC Level 3 Advanced Certificate in Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning, Home Study Distance Learning Course