Top Skills HVAC Companies Are Looking for When Hiring Technicians in Texas

Karan Patel
May 1, 2025

Want to land an HVAC job in Texas? Discover the top certifications, skills, and qualities employers are looking for when hiring HVAC technicians in 2025.

Top Skills HVAC Companies Are Looking for When Hiring Technicians in Texas

Karan Patel
May 1, 2025

Want to land an HVAC job in Texas? Discover the top certifications, skills, and qualities employers are looking for when hiring HVAC technicians in 2025.

Looking for HVAC technician jobs in Texas? Whether you're a recent trade school grad or a seasoned field tech, HVAC companies across Texas are actively hiring. But they aren’t just looking for someone who can hold a wrench—they want skilled, certified, and well-rounded techs who can handle the Texas heat.

1. Troubleshooting and Diagnostic Skills

Techs who can quickly and accurately diagnose issues save time, money, and headaches. Employers prioritize techs who:

  • Use gauges, multimeters, and smart probes confidently
  • Read schematics and electrical diagrams
  • Diagnose refrigerant issues, electrical faults, and airflow problems
  • Use modern diagnostic apps and Bluetooth tools

Bonus: Mention your comfort with brands like Trane, Carrier, Lennox, or Mitsubishi mini-splits.

2. Troubleshooting and Diagnostic Skills

If you’re applying for HVAC jobs in Texas, these certifications are expected:

  • EPA Section 608 Certification (required to handle refrigerants)
  • TDLR HVAC Technician Registration (mandatory in Texas)
  • NATE Certification (preferred by many top employers)
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 (especially for commercial or construction work)
  • HVAC Excellence Certification (a growing resume booster)

3. Hands-On Experience with HVAC Systems

You’ll find a wide mix of residential and commercial systems across Texas. Hiring managers want techs who’ve worked with:

  • Central air and heat pump systems
  • Ductless mini-splits
  • Gas and electric furnaces
  • Smart thermostats (Nest, ecobee, Honeywell)
  • Packaged rooftop units (RTUs)
  • Multi-zone VRF/VRV systems (growing in new construction)

Knowing how to work on newer, energy-efficient systems can be a game changer.

4. Knowledge of Smart HVAC Technology

Modern HVAC systems increasingly use:

  • WiFi-enabled thermostats
  • Variable-speed compressors
  • Zoning systems and IAQ (indoor air quality) add-ons
  • App-based diagnostics (OEM-specific tools like Lennox Service App or Mitsubishi Diamond Controls)

If you’re comfortable syncing devices or configuring smart thermostats, make that stand out—especially for residential service tech roles.

5. Safety and Code Knowledge

Employers prioritize HVAC technicians who understand:

  • Local Texas building codes
  • Electrical safety, lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures
  • Refrigerant recovery and environmental compliance
  • Fall protection and confined space protocols (especially for commercial techs)

OSHA 10/30 certification is often required for construction sites and large commercial clients.

6. Customer Service and Soft Skills

HVAC is more than just mechanical—it’s people work. Companies want techs who:

  • Communicate clearly with homeowners and dispatch
  • Keep job sites clean and professional
  • Upsell IAQ products or maintenance plans
  • Handle complaints or callbacks calmly and confidently

These are the techs who get repeat business—and raises.

7. Driver’s License and Transportation Skills

Texas service areas are big. HVAC employers usually expect:

  • A valid driver’s license and clean MVR
  • Familiarity with GPS and routing apps
  • Ability to manage inventory or track parts in a van
  • Dependability when working solo in the field

8. Field Software and Reporting Skills

Growing HVAC companies run on apps, not clipboards. Employers want techs who can:

  • Use platforms like ServiceTitan, Housecall Pro, FieldEdge, or Jobber
  • Enter service notes, upload photos, and generate invoices
  • Communicate with dispatch or supervisors digitally

Even basic tech skills go a long way—especially for younger techs.

9. Physical and Mental Toughness

Working in HVAC in Texas means:

  • 100°+ attic work during summer
  • Roof work in cold or rain
  • Tight crawlspaces and long hours during peak seasons

Techs who are reliable, physically fit, and mentally tough are invaluable to employers.

10. Willingness to Learn and Grow

Finally, hiring managers love techs who:

  • Ask questions
  • Take initiative
  • Want to pursue ongoing training, certifications, and eventually leadership roles

Ready to Get Hired by Top HVAC Companies in Texas?

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