HVAC Technician Career Guide in Montana
Explore hvac technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Montana.
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How to Become an HVAC Technician in Montana
Technicians commonly complete an HVAC program, registered apprenticeship, or employer-sponsored training. EPA Section 608 certification is required for regulated refrigerant work.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
HVAC Technician Salary in Montana
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Montana median wage for hvac technician workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $59,810, the median wage in Montana is approximately $1,040 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for HVAC Technicians in Montana
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONHVAC Technician Training Requirements in Montana
Montana HVAC technicians generally complete technical education and supervised field training before working independently.
- Study refrigeration, heating, electrical controls, airflow, duct systems, combustion, gas piping, code compliance, and safety.
- Complete hands-on training in installation, diagnostics, maintenance, brazing, evacuation, and refrigerant charging.
- Obtain EPA Section 608 certification before handling regulated refrigerants.
- Obtain separate plumbing, electrical, boiler, or gas credentials when the work falls within those regulated scopes.
- HVAC contracting businesses must comply with Montana contractor-registration and applicable local permit requirements.
HVAC Technician Training Providers in Montana
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Helena College University of Montana | Helena | View Program |
| Montana State University–Northern | Havre | View Program |
| Highlands College of Montana Tech | Butte | View Program |
| Great Falls College Montana State University | Great Falls | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESHVAC Technician Apprenticeship Programs in Montana
Montana Registered Apprenticeship Program
Organization: Montana Department of Labor and Industry
HVAC Technician Licensing Requirements in Montana
Montana does not issue one general statewide employee HVAC technician license. HVAC contractors must register with the state, while electrical, plumbing, gas, boiler, and other regulated work may require separate licenses or local credentials.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSHVAC Technician Job Outlook in Montana
Montana projects HVAC technician employment to grow 16% from 2024 to 2034, from approximately 1,310 to 1,520 jobs, with about 140 openings annually.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hvac technician salary in Montana?
The statewide median wage for hvac technicians in Montana is approximately $60,850 per year, or $29.25 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Montana require hvac technician licensing?
Licensing requirements for hvac technician workers in Montana vary by work scope, license category, and jurisdiction. Applicants should verify current requirements with Montana Department of Labor and Industry — Construction Contractor Registration before beginning work or applying for an examination.
How long does it take to become an hvac technician in Montana?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 6 Months–2 Years, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are hvac technicians in demand in Montana?
Montana projects hvac technician employment to grow by approximately 16% from 2024 to 2034, with about 140 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Montana Wages for HVAC Technician (SOC 49-9021) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Montana HVAC Technician Wages
- Montana HVAC Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Montana HVAC Technician Employment Trends
- Montana Department of Labor and Industry — Construction Contractor Registration — Licensing authority. Montana Department of Labor and Industry — Construction Contractor Registration