They must be in good health and have above average strength and coordination in order to lift or move heavy pieces of equipment. Work may require using ladders or scaffolding. The mechanics must assume awkward and cramped positions to reach parts of the unit during installation, servicing, and maintenance. They are exposed to various occupational hazards, such as electrical shocks, burns from welding equipment, operating machinery, and exposure to refrigerants and fuels such as heating oil and natural gas. Since they are in frequent contact with the public, they must be able to deal courteously and tactfully with customers and with workers in the construction trades.
Most employers require that mechanics be licensed to drive, and be bondable.
Union mechanics may be represented by either the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada or the Sheet Metal Workers International Association. Mechanics in metropolitan areas of California may be highly unionized. The following information is from the California Projections of Employment published by the Labor Market Information Division. The figures represent the broad occupational group Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers. Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics rank among the top fifty fastest growth occupations in California.