Apprentice AC Engineer

Women's Engineering Society; Tees Valley; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 15,000; Full time

Job summary

Women's Engineering Society is seeking an Apprentice AC Engineer to gain hands-on experience in air conditioning, refrigeration, ventilation and HVAC systems while learning through college study.

You will attend a local college one day per week and work with experienced engineers for practical skill development in a real workplace environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent), typically including Maths, English, and Science, or Functional Skills Level 2.
• Genuine interest in air conditioning and HVAC systems.
• Ability to follow instructions and work safely in a technical environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn and develop practical skills on site.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planned preventative maintenance on HVAC systems.
• Support routine servicing tasks such as cleaning filters and coils.
• Help inspect, test and diagnose faults under supervision.
• Assist with installation of systems including pipework and ductwork.
• Learn safe refrigerant handling and leak detection.
• Follow health, safety and permit-to-work procedures.
• Attend college and apprenticeship training sessions.

Skills

GCSEs incl Maths English Science

Interest in HVAC systems

Ability to follow instructions safely

Good communication and teamwork

Problem-solving mindset

Resilience under pressure

Time management and organisation

Education

GCSEs including Maths, English and Science

Functional Skills Level 2 (English/Maths)

Job description

Are you looking to kick-start your career in air conditioning and HVAC engineering while gaining hands‑on experience and a recognised qualification?

We are looking for an Apprentice AC Engineer who is eager to develop practical skills and learn from experienced engineers in a real workplace environment.

This apprenticeship provides an excellent opportunity to build a successful career while working towards industry-recognised qualifications within the rapidly growing HVAC and refrigeration industry.

Job Description

Throughout your apprenticeship journey, you will attend a local college one day per week to develop the theory and practical knowledge required for your qualification.

The remaining four days will be spent applying your learning in the workplace under expert guidance and supervision, gaining valuable experience in air conditioning, refrigeration, ventilation, and HVAC systems while developing the skills needed for a successful career in the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with planned preventative maintenance (PPM) activities on air conditioning, refrigeration, and ventilation systems.


• Support routine servicing tasks, including cleaning filters, coils, condensers, and evaporators to help maintain efficient system performance.


• Help inspect, test, diagnose, and rectify faults on HVAC and refrigeration equipment under supervision.


• Assist with the installation of air conditioning, refrigeration, and ventilation systems, including pipework, ductwork, insulation, and associated components.


• Learn safe refrigerant handling procedures and assist with leak detection activities while working towards relevant industry certifications.


• Follow all health, safety, environmental, and permit-to-work procedures, ensuring work areas remain safe and compliant.


• Attend all college and apprenticeship training sessions while working towards recognised HVAC and refrigeration qualifications and developing technical skills.

Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent), typically including Maths, English, and Science, or Functional Skills Level 2.


• A genuine interest in air conditioning, refrigeration, HVAC systems, and building services engineering.


• Ability to follow instructions and work safely in a technical or live-site environment.


• Good communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to build positive working relationships with colleagues and customers.


• Enthusiasm for practical problem-solving and learning new technical skills.


• Demonstrates resilience under pressure and adapts effectively to changing priorities.


• Effective time management and organisational skills, with the ability to meet deadlines consistently.


• Commitment to delivering high standards of customer service and safe working practices.

Training & Development

As part of your apprenticeship, you will work towards recognised industry qualifications, including:

• Level 3 Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Engineering Technician Apprenticeship


• NVQ Level 3 in Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump (RACHP) Engineering


• F-Gas Certification

You will develop knowledge and experience across modern HVAC technologies, refrigeration systems, controls, energy efficiency, planned maintenance, fault diagnosis, and industry best practices, creating a strong foundation for a successful engineering career.