HVAC R Programs in Portland, Oregon
Becoming an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Portland, Oregon
Why Become an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Portland
Portland, Oregon, known for its vibrant culture and scenic beauty, is an excellent place to start a career as an HVAC-R technician. The city offers a mix of urban and natural attractions, including the iconic Powell’s City of Books and the beautiful Washington Park. Portland’s diverse neighborhoods, such as Pearl District and Hawthorne, provide a dynamic living environment.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for HVAC-R technicians in Oregon is competitive, and the job growth rate is projected to be faster than average. This makes Portland an attractive city for aspiring HVAC-R professionals.
HVAC-R Training Programs in Portland, Oregon
If you’re looking to become an HVAC-R technician in Portland, several local schools offer comprehensive training programs:
- Portland Community College (PCC)
- Location: Sylvania Campus, Southwest Portland
- Program: PCC offers an HVAC-R program that covers essential skills and knowledge required for the field. The curriculum includes courses in refrigeration, heating systems, and air conditioning.
- Website: PCC HVAC-R Program
- Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC)
- Location: Gresham, a short drive from Portland
- Program: MHCC provides an HVAC-R technology program that includes hands-on training and theoretical knowledge. The program prepares students for various certifications and entry-level positions.
- Website: MHCC HVAC-R Program
- Clackamas Community College (CCC)
- Location: Oregon City, approximately 20 miles from Portland
- Program: CCC offers an HVAC-R program that focuses on practical skills and industry standards. The courses cover a range of topics, including system design, installation, and maintenance.
- Website: CCC HVAC-R Program
Typical Program Curriculum
HVAC-R programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students can expect to cover topics such as:
- Fundamentals of HVAC-R Systems: Understanding the basics of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
- Electrical Systems: Learning about electrical components and wiring used in HVAC-R systems.
- Refrigeration: Studying the principles of refrigeration and how to work with refrigerants.
- Heating Systems: Exploring different types of heating systems, including gas, oil, and electric furnaces.
- Air Conditioning: Learning about air conditioning systems, including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Safety Procedures: Emphasizing the importance of safety in HVAC-R work environments.
- Oregon Codes and Regulations: Understanding state-specific codes and regulations for HVAC-R work.
Programs typically last between 6 months to 2 years, depending on whether you pursue a certificate or an associate degree.
HVAC-R Employment Opportunities in Portland
Portland is home to several reputable HVAC-R companies that offer employment opportunities for certified technicians:
- Apollo Heating & Air Conditioning
- Location: Northeast Portland
- Description: Apollo Heating & Air Conditioning provides comprehensive HVAC-R services, including installation, maintenance, and repair.
- Website: Apollo Heating & Air Conditioning Careers
- Sunset Heating & Cooling
- Location: Northwest Portland
- Description: Sunset Heating & Cooling specializes in residential and commercial HVAC-R services, offering a range of employment opportunities for technicians.
- Website: Sunset Heating & Cooling Careers
- AAA Heating & Cooling
- Location: Southeast Portland
- Description: AAA Heating & Cooling is a well-established company providing HVAC-R services throughout the Portland area.
- Website: AAA Heating & Cooling Careers
HVAC-R Certification Requirements in Oregon
To become an HVAC-R certified technician in Portland, OR, you’ll need to meet both state and local requirements:
State Requirements
- Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) License: Obtain a CCB license to work as an HVAC-R technician in Oregon. Oregon CCB
- Requirements:
- Age: 18 years or older
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a background check
- Complete a pre-license training course approved by the CCB
- Pass the CCB licensing exam
- Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Certification: Obtain a DEQ certification to handle refrigerants. Oregon DEQ
- Requirements:
- Pass a DEQ-approved refrigerant handling certification exam
- Complete a DEQ-approved training program
Local Requirements
- City of Portland Business License: Obtain a business license from the City of Portland. Portland Business License
- Requirements:
- Register your business with the Oregon Secretary of State
- Obtain any necessary zoning permits
- Pass a background check
- Multnomah County Business License: Depending on your business location, you may need a business license from Multnomah County. Multnomah County Business License
- Requirements:
- Register your business with the Oregon Secretary of State
- Obtain any necessary zoning permits
- Pass a background check
Certifications
- EPA 608 Technician Certification: Required to handle refrigerants. EPA 608
- Requirements:
- Pass an EPA-approved certification exam
- NATE Certification: Highly recommended to demonstrate expertise. NATE
- Requirements:
- Pass a NATE-approved certification exam
- R-410A Certification: Required to handle R-410A refrigerant. ESCO Group
- Requirements:
- Pass an ESCO-approved certification exam
Training and Education
- HVAC-R Training Program: Complete a training program approved by the Oregon CCB or a similar organization. Oregon CCB Training
- Requirements:
- Complete a minimum of 144 hours of training
- Cover topics such as HVAC-R systems, safety procedures, and Oregon codes and regulations
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an HVAC-R technician in Portland, Oregon, is a rewarding and promising endeavor. With the right training and certifications, you can join a growing industry and enjoy a stable career. Contact a local school today to learn more about their HVAC-R programs and take the first step towards your new career. Don’t wait—start your journey to becoming an HVAC-R certified technician in Portland now!