Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Refrigeration Technician specializes in installing, maintaining, and repairing refrigeration systems used in various settings, such as commercial, industrial, and residential environments. They work with systems that include refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and cooling units.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Moderate-term
Projected Growth: 5.1% (above average)
Annual job openings: 800
Direct AI exposure: 0% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 8% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Power Engineers and Power Systems Operators. According to the wage tables, average income is $58K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $42K per year | $50K per year | $58K per year | $72K per year | $86K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $6.49K below the national average. | ||||
Refrigeration Technicians typically work in a variety of locations including homes, businesses, factories, and supermarkets. Their work may require travel to different job sites and can involve indoor and outdoor activities, often in cramped or uncomfortable positions.
A career as a Refrigeration Technician involves a mix of technical knowledge and hands-on skills. Technicians must understand the principles of refrigeration, including how to handle refrigerants and the physics of cooling. They need to be adept at reading blueprints and schematics, as well as using a variety of tools for installation and repair. This career requires continuous learning to stay updated with evolving technologies, environmental regulations, and safety standards.
Technicians often work independently, traveling to different sites to diagnose and fix issues. They must be able to communicate effectively with customers, explaining complex technical issues in understandable terms. Problem-solving is a significant part of the job, as technicians must quickly identify and rectify faults in refrigeration systems to minimize downtime and ensure efficiency.
The job can be physically demanding, often requiring work in tight spaces, lifting heavy equipment, and handling hazardous materials. It also offers the satisfaction of seeing the immediate results of one's work, from installing a new system to fixing a critical issue that restores a system's functionality.
Most Refrigeration Technicians in Canada complete a college certificate or diploma program in refrigeration, air conditioning, or HVAC technology, typically lasting 6 months to 2 years. This is followed by a provincial apprenticeship, which combines paid on-the-job training with periods of in-school technical instruction. Refrigeration is a regulated skilled trade in many provinces, and technicians are usually required to obtain provincial trade certification, with the option to earn Red Seal endorsement. Certification to handle refrigerants, such as Ozone Depletion Prevention (ODP) certification, is also required.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
