GREEN OCCUPATION REPORT For the Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC 49-9021) August 2011
TABLE OF CONTENTS Table of Contents... 1 Executive Summary... 2 Project Objectives:... 2 Process Overview:... 2 Project Limitations:... 3 Summary of Findings:... 3 Project Findings... 5 Task Analysis - Green vs. Traditional:... 5 Skill Analysis Green vs. Traditional:... 5 Pre-Employment Preparation and Training:... 6 Employee Training and Certification:... 7 Recommendations from Subject Matter Experts... 8 Pre-Employment Preparation and Training:... 8 Employee Training and Certification:... 8 Appendix A - Detailed Presentation of Final Task Lists... 9 Appendix B - Green Task Analysis... 15 Appendix C - Occupation Data... 22 Appendix D - Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities... 26 Appendix E - WorkKeys and Content Validation... 35 Appendix F Glossary of Terminology... 38 Appendix G - Skill Descriptions... 41 Applied Mathematics Skill... 41 Applied Technology Skill... 46 Business Writing Skill... 52 Listening Skill... 56 Locating Information Skill... 59 Reading for Information Skill... 62 Teamwork Skill... 66 Workplace Observation Skill... 70 Writing Skill... 74 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PROJECT OBJECTIVES: The primary goal of this project was to identify the tasks performed, skills required and training needed to perform green jobs in the State of Oregon. To accomplish this, researchers gathered information on specific green jobs; gathered information on similar jobs done in a traditional manner; and compared occupational data. PROCESS OVERVIEW: Ten occupations were selected for evaluation. Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists (SOC 49-3031) Carpenters (SOC 49-3031) Construction and Building Inspectors (SOC 47-4011) Construction Laborers (SOC 47-2061) Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC 49-9021) Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters (SOC 47-2152) Production Workers, All Other (SOC 51-9199) Solar/Photovoltaic Installers (SOC 47-2231) Water and Liquid Waste Treatment Plant and System Operators (SOC 51-8031) Wind Turbine Service Technician (SOC 49-9081) These occupations were identified as having a substantial number of green jobs, or are expected to have a large number of emerging green jobs. The Oregon Employment Department (OED) also identified these occupations as having a strong potential for overall employment growth. The researchers compiled publically available occupational data to create a control profile for each of the ten occupations. Each control profile represents an occupation as it has traditionally been performed. The tasks performed, skills required and training needed to perform the occupation in a traditional manner were identified. The researchers operated under the assumption that the control profile represents the occupation performed in a less green, or non-green manner. Later analysis and comparison allowed the researchers to test that assumption. Several green jobs were identified using OED s definition of a green job. For the purposes of this project a green job is defined as: 2
A job that provides a service or produces a product in any of the following categories: 1. Increasing energy efficiency 2. Producing renewable energy 3. Preventing, reducing, or mitigating environmental degradation 4. Cleaning up and restoring the natural environment 5. Providing education, consulting, policy promotion, accreditation, trading and offsets, or similar services supporting categories 1 through 4 Intensive research and evaluation were conducted for three green jobs in each of the ten occupations. The green job data was analyzed to identify commonalities and differences between the green jobs. This analysis allowed the researchers to develop a green profile for each occupation. The tasks performed, skills required and training needed to perform the occupation in a green manner were established. The control profile was then compared to the green profile. Commonalities and differences between tasks performed, skills required and training needed were identified. PROJECT LIMITATIONS: Due to the limits of time and budget, the information gathered during this project was limited to three jobs in each of ten occupations, and research was focused solely on tasks, skills and training. While this is a solid first step, additional green job evaluations would certainly improve the identification of commonalities and differences between occupations done in a traditional manner and green occupations. Additional funding would allow researchers to dig deeper into important occupational information such as technological advances, material usage, process improvements, demographic changes, and geographic distribution. More information would be invaluable to businesses looking to participate in the emerging green economy, Workforce development organizations, educational institutions, and policy makers. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS: **This report focuses on Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC 49-9021)** **Overall project findings will be presented in a later report** 3
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers are responsible for installing or repairing heating, central air conditioning, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves The following table outlines the basic commonalities and differences between the Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers occupation done in a traditional manner and done in a green manner. Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC 49-9021) TASKS SKILLS* PREPARATION AND TRAINING EMPLOYEE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION TRADITIONAL HVAC Technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, operating, and repairing interior climate control systems in residential, commercial and industrial structures. Applied Mathematics: 4 Locating Information: 4 Reading for Information: 5 Workers must have long-term onthe-job training to gain the necessary skills for this occupation. However, those with postsecondary training have a competitive advantage in this labor market. HVAC Technicians may come in contact with newer technology and equipment. Green HVAC Technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, operating, and repairing interior climate control systems in residential, commercial and industrial structures. Applied Mathematics: 5 Locating Information: 5 Reading for Information: 5 Workers must have long-term onthe-job training to gain the necessary skills for this occupation. However, those with postsecondary training have a competitive advantage in this labor market. HVAC Technicians must stay up to date on new technology and equipment. * The Applied Mathematics, Locating Information, and Reading for Information skill levels were assessed using ACT, Inc. s WorkKeys system. The objective was to quantify the foundational skills needed to perform well in the occupation. 4
PROJECT FINDINGS Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (HVAC Technicians) are responsible for installing, maintaining, operating, and repairing interior climate control systems in residential, commercial and industrial structures. The process of controlling the interior climate of man made structures has progressively gotten more energy efficient and environmentally friendly over the last 30 to 40 years. TASK ANALYSIS: HVAC Technicians work with a wide variety of heating, cooling and refrigeration systems, ranging from a small window mounted AC unit to extremely large industrial systems. While the technology and design of these systems has steadily improved, the tasks performed by the HVAC Technician have basically remained unchanged. Technologic advances, improved system design, environmental awareness, governmental regulation, and government incentives have driven the changes in this occupation. Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC 49-9021) TASKS TRADITIONAL HVAC Technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, operating, and repairing interior climate control systems in residential, commercial and industrial structures. Green HVAC Technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, operating, and repairing interior climate control systems in residential, commercial and industrial structures. SKILL ANALYSIS: A small difference was identified in the skill levels needed to properly perform the HVAC Technician job in a green manner. Due to the limited scale of this project these differences are not considered statistically significant. Further research will be needed to truly identify and analyze this skill differential. 5
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC 49-9021) SKILLS* TRADITIONAL Applied Mathematics: 4 Locating Information: 4 Reading for Information: 5 Green Applied Mathematics: 5 Locating Information: 5 Reading for Information: 5 * The Applied Mathematics, Locating Information, and Reading for Information skill levels were assessed using ACT, Inc. s WorkKeys system. The objective was to quantify the foundational skills needed to perform well in the occupation. PRE-EMPLOYMENT PREPARATION AND TRAINING: No changes to the preparation and training requirements were noted. Trainers have incorporated the changes in equipment and technique into their programs without restructuring how they train HVAC Technicians. Green HVAC Technicians and traditional HVAC Technicians are often one in the same. Most Technicians work on multiple systems at many locations. One job may have them installing a state of the art, high efficiency system and the next might be maintaining a 60-year-old fuel oil furnace. Green or traditional, they become HVAC technicians by completing an approved apprenticeship program, or obtaining on-the-job training. Prior to entering a training program, an applicant must possess very strong foundational skills, and should participate in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC 49-9021) PREPARATION AND TRAINING TRADITIONAL Workers must have long-term onthe-job training to gain the necessary skills for this occupation. However, those with postsecondary training have a competitive advantage in this labor market. Green Workers must have long-term onthe-job training to gain the necessary skills for this occupation. However, those with postsecondary training have a competitive advantage in this labor market. 6
EMPLOYEE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION: HVAC Technicians who perform their job in a green manner must maintain a higher level of knowledge than their traditional counterparts. Green HVAC Technicians must be familiar with a wide array of climate control systems and their proper application. Most importantly, HVAC Technicians must continue to learn as new products and processes emerge. Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC 49-9021) EMPLOYEE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION TRADITIONAL HVAC Technicians may come in contact with newer technology and equipment. Green HVAC Technicians must stay up to date on new technology and equipment. HVAC Technicians must continue to learn as new products and processes emerge. 7
RECOMMENDATIONS FROM SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS The researchers met with HVAC Technicians during each of the three evaluation sessions. These HVAC Technicians made up a Corp of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). PRE-EMPLOYMENT PREPARATION AND TRAINING: The SMEs identified a basic understanding of physical science, strong foundational skills, and a solid work ethic as traits needed before entering into the HVAC Technician Occupation. Practical work experience was listed as essential to obtaining stable, quality employment. To get that experience, most of the SMEs had started in an approved apprenticeship program, and participated in CTE programs. EMPLOYEE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION: The SMEs stressed the need for HVAC Technicians to continue learning as new products and processes emerge. They acknowledged the need for strong foundational skills in order to maintain career long learning. 8
APPENDIX A - DETAILED PRESENTATION OF FINAL TASK LISTS The Final Task List for the green jobs is shown in the tables below. An arrow ( ) in a skill column means that according to the SMEs the task on that row requires that skill. The names of the WorkKeys skills have been abbreviated to save space, as follows: Applied Mathematics (AM), Locating Information (LI), and Reading for Information (RI). FINAL TASK LIST (First Evaluation conducted April 2011) LI AM RI 1. Follows safety procedures, OSHA regulations, MSDS, and employer instructions by understanding procedures and regulations, identifying potential safety issues, reporting near misses, properly using personal protection equipment, communicating with other trades people, and using common sense. 2. Performs preventative maintenance on tools and equipment. 3. Operates boiler/steam heating system by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 4. Operates cooling system (chillers) by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 5. Maintains air distribution system by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 6. Repairs air distribution system by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, valves, traps, sensors, and controls). 7. Maintains HVAC system controls by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 8. Repairs HVAC system controls by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, valves, traps, sensors, and controls). 9. Tests and adjusts air distribution system by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 10. Identifies and repairs leaks in HVAC systems by locating the area of the leak, determining the best course of action, shutting down the appropriate systems, repairing of replacing the leaking component, returning the system to operation, and evaluating the effectiveness of the repair. 11. Maintains boiler/steam heating system by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 12. Repairs boiler/steam heating system by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, valves, traps, sensors, and controls). 13. Maintains cooling system (Chillers) by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 14. Maintains secondary heat distribution system by performing preventative maintenance and routine 9
services. 15. Tests and adjusts HVAC system controls by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 16. Maintains other heating systems by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 17. Tests and adjusts other heating systems by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 18. Repairs other heating systems (heat pumps, gas furnaces, electric furnaces, and electric area heaters) by replacing faulty components (i.e. burners, heating elements, sensors, and controls). 19. Maintains traditional air conditioning systems by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 20. Operates HVAC system controls by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 21. Reads and interprets work orders, plans, and prints to prepare project layout, determine dimensions, materials required, and equipment needs. 22. Tests and troubleshoots boiler/steam heating system by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 23. Tests and adjusts cooling system (Chillers) by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 24. Repairs cooling system (Chillers) by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, valves, traps, sensors, and controls). 25. Operates secondary heat distribution system by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 26. Repairs secondary heat distribution system by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, valves, traps, sensors, and controls). 27. Operates air distribution system by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 28. Repairs traditional air conditioning systems by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, condensers, refrigerant, sensors, and controls). 29. Tests water quality (boiler system, cooling system, secondary heating system, and secondary cooling system) by taking samples and evaluating water content using prescribed procedures. 30. Adjusts water quality (boiler system, cooling system, secondary heating system, and secondary cooling system) by measuring the appropriate chemicals, and adding those chemicals to the water contained in the system. 31. Reads and interprets maintenance and repair manuals by locating the appropriate manuals, locating the 10
appropriate instructions and procedures, and following the instructions and procedures contained in those manuals. 32. Safely operates construction equipment and machinery (i.e. fork lifts, cranes, mobile elevated work platforms). 33. Tests and adjusts secondary heat distribution system by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 34. Operates other heating systems by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 35. Tests and adjusts traditional air conditioning systems by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 36. Inspects and uses hand and power tools by visually inspecting, identifying faults during use, properly using personal protection equipment, and operating tools in a safe manner. 37. Operates traditional air conditioning systems by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 38. Fastens and erects materials by using hand tools, power tools, screws, bolts, clips, anchors, pins, glue, and welding. 39. Cleans work areas, machines, or equipment, to maintain a clean and safe job site. 40. Rigs material and equipment for movement by crane by inspecting straps, calculating working load, attaching tag lines, clearing work area, and disconnecting load. 41. Protects worksite by setting up fencing, barriers, and environment protection. 42. Smooth or sand surfaces to remove ridges, tool marks, glue, or caulking. FINAL TASK LIST (Second Evaluation conducted June 2011) LI RI AM 1. Follows safety procedures, OSHA regulations, MSDS, and employer instructions by understanding procedures and regulations, identifying potential safety issues, reporting near misses, properly using personal protection equipment, communicating with other trades people, and using common sense. 2. Reads and interprets work orders, plans, and prints to prepare project layout, determine dimensions, materials required, and equipment needs. 3. Installs ducting by connecting duct segments, attaching ducting to structure, sealing ducting, and insulating ducting. 4. Fabricates ducting by evaluating system design, measuring sheet metal, cutting sheet metal, and shaping 11
sheet metal into ducting segments. 5. Installs furnaces (i.e. gas, electric) by mounting furnace to structure, connecting furnace to duct system, connecting furnace to fuel source (gas, electric), connecting furnace controls, and testing complete system. 6. Installs air conditioning systems by mounting to structure, connecting air conditioning to duct system, connecting air conditioning to power, connecting air conditioning controls, and testing complete system. 7. Installs air quality systems (i.e. de-humidifiers, air scrubbers, filtration systems) by connecting to HVAC system, connecting to power, connecting system controls, and testing complete system. 8. Repairs furnace systems by troubleshooting system, identifying faults, and replacing defective components. 9. Repairs air conditioning systems by troubleshooting system, identifying faults, and replacing defective components. 10. Installs ventilation systems by mounting fans, mounting vents, connecting system to power, connecting system controls, and testing complete system. 11. Recharges air conditioning system refrigerant by installing recovery equipment, opening valves, refilling refrigerant, bleeding system, and properly disposing of used refrigerant. 12. Evaluates duct system by pressurizing ducting and identifying duct leakage. 13. Repairs duct leakage by inspecting duct system, identifying leaks, and sealing ducting. 14. Repairs air quality systems (i.e. de-humidifiers, air scrubbers, filtration systems) by inspecting system, identifying faults, and replacing defective components. 15. Reads and interprets maintenance and repair manuals by locating the appropriate manuals, locating the appropriate instructions and procedures, and following the instructions and procedures contained in those manuals. 16. Uses hand tools, power tools, and electrical test equipment. 17. Rigs material and equipment for movement by crane by inspecting straps, calculating working load, attaching tag lines, clearing work area, and disconnecting load. 18. Makes minor improvements to building structure by following engineer drawings, reports, and instructions. 19. Cleans work areas, machines, or equipment, to maintain a clean and safe job site. 20. Protects worksite by setting up fencing, barriers, and environment protection. 21. Performs preventative maintenance on tools and equipment. 12
FINAL TASK LIST (Third Evaluation conducted August 2011) LI AM RI 1. Follows safety procedures, OSHA regulations, MSDS, and employer instructions by understanding procedures and regulations, identifying potential safety issues, reporting near misses, properly using personal protection equipment, communicating with other trades people, and using common sense. 2. Lays out project, determines material and equipment needs by reading and interpreting work orders, plans, and prints. 3. Fastens HVAC system components by using hand tools, power tools, screws, bolts, clips, anchors, pins, glue, welding, and brazing. 4. Fabricates and installs air distribution systems (i.e. ducting, vents, fans, filters, humidity controls, and sensors) by reading and interpreting project plans, laying out project, fabricating components, and installing system. 5. Installs heating systems (i.e. gas furnaces, electric furnaces, boiler systems) by reading and interpreting project plans, laying out project, installing system, and testing system for proper operation. 6. Installs air conditioning systems by reading and interpreting project plans, laying out project, installing system, and testing system for proper operation. 7. Installs HVAC system controls (i.e. control modules, sensors, and thermostats) by reading and interpreting project plans, laying out project, installing system, and testing system for proper operation. 8. Reads and interprets maintenance and repair manuals by locating the appropriate manuals, locating the appropriate instructions and procedures, and following the instructions and procedures. 9. Tests, adjusts, and repairs heating systems (i.e. gas furnaces, electric furnaces, boiler systems) by identifying system faults, developing the best course of action to address faults, and replacing faulty components (i.e. burners, sensors, valves). 10. Tests, adjusts, and repairs air conditioning systems by identifying system faults, developing the best course of action to address faults, and replacing faulty components. 11. Tests, adjusts, and repairs HVAC system controls by identifying system faults, determining the best course of action, and replacing faulty components (i.e. control modules, sensors, and thermostats) 12. Tests, adjusts, and repairs air distribution system by identifying system faults, developing the best course of action to address faults, and replacing faulty components (i.e. ducting, vents, fans, filters, humidity controls, and sensors). 13. Identifies and repairs leaks in HVAC systems by locating the area of the leak, determining the best course of action, shutting down the appropriate systems, repairing of replacing the leaking component, returning the system to operation, and evaluating the effectiveness of the repair. 14. Recharges or replaces refrigerant in cooling systems by installing recovery lines, installing recharging lines, opening system valves, ensuring appropriate system pressure, closing valves, removing recharging lines, 13
and removing recovery lines. 15. Rigs material and equipment for movement by crane by inspecting straps, calculating working load, attaching tag lines, clearing work area, and disconnecting load. 16. Tests, adjusts, and repairs refrigeration systems by identifying system faults, developing the best course of action to address faults, and replacing faulty components. 17. Installs refrigeration systems by reading and interpreting project plans, laying out project, installing system, and testing system for proper operation. 18. Cleans work area, tools, and equipment, to maintain a clean and safe job site. 19. Protects worksite by setting up fencing, barriers, and environment protection. 20. Safely operates construction equipment and machinery (i.e. fork lifts, cranes, mobile elevated work platforms). 21. Inspects and maintains hand and power tools. 14
APPENDIX B - GREEN TASK ANALYSIS The Oregon Employment Department defines a green job as: A job that provides a service or produces a product in any of the following categories: 1. Increasing energy efficiency 2. Producing renewable energy 3. Preventing, reducing, or mitigating environmental degradation 4. Cleaning up and restoring the natural environment 5. Providing education, consulting, policy promotion, accreditation, trading and offsets, or similar services supporting categories 1 through 4 SMEs where instructed that work in one or more of these green categories must be an essential part of their job duties. The SMEs evaluated the final task list to identify which tasks supported the green categories from the definition of a green job. The Final Task List for the job is shown in the table on the following pages. A check mark ( ) in a category column means that according to the SMEs the task on that row supports that green category. Category number from the definition above lists the green categories. 15
1. Increasing energy efficiency 2. Producing renewable energy 3. Preventing, reducing, or mitigating environmental degradation 4. Cleaning up and restoring the natural environment 5. Providing education, consulting, policy promotion, accreditation, trading and offsets, or similar services supporting categories 1 through 4 FINAL TASK LIST (First Evaluation conducted November 2010) 1 2 3 4 5 1. Follows safety procedures, OSHA regulations, MSDS, and employer instructions by understanding procedures and regulations, identifying potential safety issues, reporting near misses, properly using personal protection equipment, communicating with other trades people, and using common sense. 2. Performs preventative maintenance on tools and equipment. 3. Operates boiler/steam heating system by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 4. Operates cooling system (chillers) by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 5. Maintains air distribution system by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 6. Repairs air distribution system by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, valves, traps, sensors, and controls). 7. Maintains HVAC system controls by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 8. Repairs HVAC system controls by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, valves, traps, sensors, and controls). 9. Tests and adjusts air distribution system by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 10. Identifies and repairs leaks in HVAC systems by locating the area of the leak, determining the best course of action, shutting down the appropriate systems, repairing of replacing the leaking component, returning the system to operation, and evaluating the effectiveness of the repair. 11. Maintains boiler/steam heating system by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 12. Repairs boiler/steam heating system by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, valves, traps, sensors, and controls). 13. Maintains cooling system (Chillers) by performing preventative maintenance and routine 16
services. 14. Maintains secondary heat distribution system by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 15. Tests and adjusts HVAC system controls by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 16. Maintains other heating systems by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 17. Tests and adjusts other heating systems by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 18. Repairs other heating systems (heat pumps, gas furnaces, electric furnaces, and electric area heaters) by replacing faulty components (i.e. burners, heating elements, sensors, and controls). 19. Maintains traditional air conditioning systems by performing preventative maintenance and routine services. 20. Operates HVAC system controls by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 21. Reads and interprets work orders, plans, and prints to prepare project layout, determine dimensions, materials required, and equipment needs. 22. Tests and troubleshoots boiler/steam heating system by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 23. Tests and adjusts cooling system (Chillers) by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 24. Repairs cooling system (Chillers) by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, valves, traps, sensors, and controls) 25. Operates secondary heat distribution system by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 26. Repairs secondary heat distribution system by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, valves, traps, sensors, and controls). 27. Operates air distribution system by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 28. Repairs traditional air conditioning systems by replacing faulty components (i.e. pumps, condensers, refrigerant, sensors, and controls). 29. Tests water quality (boiler system, cooling system, secondary heating system, and secondary cooling system) by taking samples and evaluating water content using prescribed procedures. 30. Adjusts water quality (boiler system, cooling system, secondary heating system, and secondary cooling system) by measuring the appropriate chemicals, and adding those chemicals to the 17
water contained in the system. 31. Reads and interprets maintenance and repair manuals by locating the appropriate manuals, locating the appropriate instructions and procedures, and following the instructions and procedures contained in those manuals. 32. Safely operates construction equipment and machinery (i.e. fork lifts, cranes, mobile elevated work platforms). 33. Tests and adjusts secondary heat distribution system by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 34. Operates other heating systems by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 35. Tests and adjusts traditional air conditioning systems by identifying system faults, evaluating severity/source of faults, and developing the best course of action to address faults. 36. Inspects and uses hand and power tools by visually inspecting, identifying faults during use, properly using personal protection equipment, and operating tools in a safe manner. 37. Operates traditional air conditioning systems by evaluating facility needs and adjusting system to meet those needs in the most efficient manner. 38. Fastens and erects materials by using hand tools, power tools, screws, bolts, clips, anchors, pins, glue, and welding. 39. Cleans work areas, machines, or equipment, to maintain a clean and safe job site. 40. Rigs material and equipment for movement by crane by inspecting straps, calculating working load, attaching tag lines, clearing work area, and disconnecting load. 41. Protects worksite by setting up fencing, barriers, and environment protection. 42. Smooth or sand surfaces to remove ridges, tool marks, glue, or caulking. FINAL TASK LIST (Second Evaluation conducted June 2011) 1 2 3 4 5 1. Follows safety procedures, OSHA regulations, MSDS, and employer instructions by understanding procedures and regulations, identifying potential safety issues, reporting near misses, properly using personal protection equipment, communicating with other trades people, and using common sense. 2. Reads and interprets work orders, plans, and prints to prepare project layout, determine dimensions, materials required, and equipment needs. 3. Installs ducting by connecting duct segments, attaching ducting to structure, sealing ducting, and 18
insulating ducting. 4. Fabricates ducting by evaluating system design, measuring sheet metal, cutting sheet metal, and shaping sheet metal into ducting segments. 5. Installs furnaces (i.e. gas, electric) by mounting furnace to structure, connecting furnace to duct system, connecting furnace to fuel source (gas, electric), connecting furnace controls, and testing complete system. 6. Installs air conditioning systems by mounting to structure, connecting air conditioning to duct system, connecting air conditioning to power, connecting air conditioning controls, and testing complete system. 7. Installs air quality systems (i.e. de-humidifiers, air scrubbers, filtration systems) by connecting to HVAC system, connecting to power, connecting system controls, and testing complete system. 8. Repairs furnace systems by troubleshooting system, identifying faults, and replacing defective components. 9. Repairs air conditioning systems by troubleshooting system, identifying faults, and replacing defective components. 10. Installs ventilation systems by mounting fans, mounting vents, connecting system to power, connecting system controls, and testing complete system. 11. Recharges air conditioning system refrigerant by installing recovery equipment, opening valves, refilling refrigerant, bleeding system, and properly disposing of used refrigerant. 12. Evaluates duct system by pressurizing ducting and identifying duct leakage. 13. Repairs duct leakage by inspecting duct system, identifying leaks, and sealing ducting. 14. Repairs air quality systems (i.e. de-humidifiers, air scrubbers, filtration systems) by inspecting system, identifying faults, and replacing defective components. 15. Reads and interprets maintenance and repair manuals by locating the appropriate manuals, locating the appropriate instructions and procedures, and following the instructions and procedures contained in those manuals. 16. Uses hand tools, power tools, and electrical test equipment. 17. Rigs material and equipment for movement by crane by inspecting straps, calculating working load, attaching tag lines, clearing work area, and disconnecting load. 18. Makes minor improvements to building structure by following engineer drawings, reports, and instructions. 19. Cleans work areas, machines, or equipment, to maintain a clean and safe job site. 20. Protects worksite by setting up fencing, barriers, and environment protection. 19
21. Performs preventative maintenance on tools and equipment. FINAL TASK LIST (Third Evaluation conducted August 2011) 1 2 3 4 5 1. Follows safety procedures, OSHA regulations, MSDS, and employer instructions by understanding procedures and regulations, identifying potential safety issues, reporting near misses, properly using personal protection equipment, communicating with other trades people, and using common sense. 2. Lays out project, determines material and equipment needs by reading and interpreting work orders, plans, and prints. 3. Fastens HVAC system components by using hand tools, power tools, screws, bolts, clips, anchors, pins, glue, welding, and brazing. 4. Fabricates and installs air distribution systems (i.e. ducting, vents, fans, filters, humidity controls, and sensors) by reading and interpreting project plans, laying out project, fabricating components, and installing system. 5. Installs heating systems (i.e. gas furnaces, electric furnaces, boiler systems) by reading and interpreting project plans, laying out project, installing system, and testing system for proper operation. 6. Installs air conditioning systems by reading and interpreting project plans, laying out project, installing system, and testing system for proper operation. 7. Installs HVAC system controls (i.e. control modules, sensors, and thermostats) by reading and interpreting project plans, laying out project, installing system, and testing system for proper operation. 8. Reads and interprets maintenance and repair manuals by locating the appropriate manuals, locating the appropriate instructions and procedures, and following the instructions and procedures. 9. Tests, adjusts, and repairs heating systems (i.e. gas furnaces, electric furnaces, boiler systems) by identifying system faults, developing the best course of action to address faults, and replacing faulty components (i.e. burners, sensors, valves). 10. Tests, adjusts, and repairs air conditioning systems by identifying system faults, developing the best course of action to address faults, and replacing faulty components. 11. Tests, adjusts, and repairs HVAC system controls by identifying system faults, determining the best course of action, and replacing faulty components (i.e. control modules, sensors, and thermostats) 12. Tests, adjusts, and repairs air distribution system by identifying system faults, developing the 20
best course of action to address faults, and replacing faulty components (i.e. ducting, vents, fans, filters, humidity controls, and sensors). 13. Identifies and repairs leaks in HVAC systems by locating the area of the leak, determining the best course of action, shutting down the appropriate systems, repairing of replacing the leaking component, returning the system to operation, and evaluating the effectiveness of the repair. 14. Recharges or replaces refrigerant in cooling systems by installing recovery lines, installing recharging lines, opening system valves, ensuring appropriate system pressure, closing valves, removing recharging lines, and removing recovery lines. 15. Rigs material and equipment for movement by crane by inspecting straps, calculating working load, attaching tag lines, clearing work area, and disconnecting load. 16. Tests, adjusts, and repairs refrigeration systems by identifying system faults, developing the best course of action to address faults, and replacing faulty components. 17. Installs refrigeration systems by reading and interpreting project plans, laying out project, installing system, and testing system for proper operation. 18. Cleans work area, tools, and equipment, to maintain a clean and safe job site. 19. Protects worksite by setting up fencing, barriers, and environment protection. 20. Safely operates construction equipment and machinery (i.e. fork lifts, cranes, mobile elevated work platforms). 21. Inspects and maintains hand and power tools. 21
APPENDIX C - OCCUPATION DATA The information contained in this section was obtained from the Oregon Employment Department s www.qualityinfo.org web site and depicts occupational projections from 2008 through 2018. Additional occupational information and changes to occupational projections can be viewed at www.qualityinfo.org. Occupational Description for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC 49-9021) Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves Regional Employment Projections for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers Region Employment 2008 2018 Change % Change Projected Annual Openings Growth Replacement Total Oregon Statewide 2,771 2,867 96 3.5% 10 45 55 Multnomah / Washington 719 747 28 3.9% 3 12 15 Clackamas 596 626 30 5.0% 3 10 13 Marion / Polk / Yamhill 348 361 13 3.7% 1 6 7 Lane 258 266 8 3.1% 1 4 5 Crook / Deschutes / Jefferson 185 191 6 3.2% 1 3 4 Morrow / Umatilla 131 135 4 3.1% 0 2 3 Benton / Lincoln / Linn 129 142 13 10.1% 1 2 4 Clatsop / Columbia / Tillamook 108 117 9 8.3% 1 2 3 Jackson / Josephine 91 96 5 5.5% 1 2 2 Douglas 39 41 2 5.1% 0 1 1 Coos / Curry 33 34 1 3.0% 0 1 1 Klamath / Lake 30 30 0 0.0% 0 1 1 Gilliam / Hood River / Sherman / Wheeler / Wasco 18 20 2 11.1% 0 0 1 Baker / Union / Wallowa 18 17-1 -5.6% 0 0 0 Grant / Harney / Malheur 18 19 1 5.6% 0 0 0 Existing workers permanently leaving their occupation cause replacement openings. Many additional job openings occur due to job changes within occupations. 22
State of Oregon License Information for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers License Refrigeration Piping Mechanic Class 5b (Clb) License Authority Web Site www.bcd.oregon.gov/programs/boiler.html Solar Heating & Cooling System Installer (Stl) www.bcd.oregon.gov/programs/plumbing.html Wages for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers ---------------- 2010 Wages ---------------- Region Percentiles (hourly wages) 10th 25th 50th (median) 75th 90th Avg. Hourly ($/hr.) Avg. Annual Oregon Statewide $12.70 $16.06 $21.37 $26.38 $30.78 $21.44 $44,612 Multnomah / Washington 11.30 20.44 25.56 29.80 35.29 24.47 50,898 Marion / Polk / Yamhill 13.55 16.01 18.48 21.68 24.83 18.78 39,056 Benton / Lincoln / Linn 10.16 14.18 17.22 21.01 23.33 17.36 36,118 Lane 13.08 16.44 21.19 25.23 28.35 20.84 43,358 Coos / Curry 10.71 11.69 13.90 16.25 22.98 14.90 30,997 Jackson / Josephine 11.29 15.12 17.69 21.84 26.59 18.37 38,209 Crook / Deschutes / Jefferson 13.68 15.13 18.95 24.94 29.28 20.50 42,637 Morrow / Umatilla 14.15 17.00 23.33 27.89 31.06 22.73 47,270 Grant / Harney / Malheur 11.46 19.03 21.23 24.08 27.32 20.55 42,730 Clackamas 14.14 16.71 21.80 26.80 30.32 21.87 45,484 Industries of Employment for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers Industry Ownership 2008 Employment Total, All Industries All 2,771 Total, All Industries Private 2,527 Construction Private 1,931 Specialty Trade Contractors Private 1,927 Building Equipment Contractors Private 1,927 Manufacturing Private 68 23
Industry Ownership 2008 Employment Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing Private 27 Architectural and Structural Metals Manufacturing Private 27 Machinery Manufacturing Private 27 Wholesale Trade Private 185 Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods Private 80 Hardware, and Plumbing and Heating Equipment and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers Private 64 Wholesale Electronic Markets and Agents and Brokers Private 100 Retail Trade Private 168 Furniture and Home Furnishings Stores Private 66 Home Furnishings Stores Private 66 Miscellaneous Store Retailers Private 22 Other Miscellaneous Store Retailers Private 22 Non-store Retailers Private 80 Direct Selling Establishments Private 75 Health Care and Social Assistance Private 47 Hospitals Private 45 General Medical and Surgical Hospitals Private 45 Other Services (except Public Administration) Private 65 Repair and Maintenance Private 65 Commercial and Industrial Machinery and Equipment (except Automotive and Electronic) Repair and Maintenance Private 57 Total, All Industries Federal 43 Transportation and Warehousing Federal 27 Postal Service Federal 27 Total, All Industries State 113 Educational Services State 26 Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools State 22 Public Administration State 79 Justice, Public Order, and Safety Activities State 43 Total, All Industries Local 83 Educational Services Local 49 Elementary and Secondary Schools Local 27 24
Educational Requirements for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers Workers must have long-term on-the-job training to gain the necessary skills for this occupation. However, those with postsecondary training have a competitive advantage in this labor market. Schools and Training Providers for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers Northwest College of Construction 8111 NE Holman St. Portland, OR 97218 Phone: (503) 256-7300 Programs of Training: Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation & Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician Linn-Benton Community College 6500 Pacific Blvd SW Albany, OR 97321 Phone: (541) 917-4999 Programs of Training: Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation & Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician Tillamook Bay Community College 4301 Third St. Tillamook, OR 97141 Phone: (503) 842-8222 Programs of Training: Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation & Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician Portland Community College 12000 SW 49th Avenue Portland, OR 97219-7132 Phone: (503) 244-6111 Programs of Training: Apprenticeship Division 800 NE Oregon Street Portland, OR 97232 Phone: (971) 673-0761 Programs of Training: Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation & Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology/Technician (ACH/ACR/ACHR/HRAC/HVAC/AC Technology) 25
APPENDIX D - KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES The information contained in this section was obtained from O*Net (http://online.onetcenter.org). O*Net has replaced the Dictionary of Occupational Titles as the U.S. Department of Labor s repository for general occupational information. Additional occupational information and changes to this information can be viewed at http://online.onetcenter.org. Knowledge O*Net recognizes 33 individual knowledge areas. The following list contains all 33 knowledge areas and is presented in order of importance to the Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers. Mechanical Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. Customer and Personal Service Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction. Mathematics Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications. Building and Construction Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads. Public Safety and Security Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions. Education and Training Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. Engineering and Technology Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services. 26
Design Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principals involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models. English Language Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. Physics Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes. Sales and Marketing Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems. Administration and Management Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources. Computers and Electronics Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming. Chemistry Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods. Transportation Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits. Law and Government Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process. Production and Processing Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. Clerical Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology. Personnel and Human Resources Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems. 27