HVAC Technician Salary in Winnipeg, MB 2026

Winnipeg’s HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technician market remains strong in 2026, with competitive pay, solid job prospects, and opportunities for career growth. Whether you’re just entering the trade, advancing your skillset, or weighing relocation within Canada, understanding the salary landscape in Winnipeg, Manitoba can help you plan your HVAC career with confidence.

Below is a comprehensive breakdown of HVAC technician earnings, influencing factors, career development, and market trends in Winnipeg, MB.

Average HVAC Technician Salary in Winnipeg (2026)

Winnipeg offers strong compensation for HVAC technicians, often above provincial averages due to demand for skilled trades and year‑round climate control needs.

Typical Earnings (2026)

👉 HVAC technicians in Winnipeg typically earn around CA$75,000–$80,000 per year depending on experience and employer size.

Salary Breakdown by Experience

Experience remains one of the biggest determinants of pay across the HVAC trade in Winnipeg.

1. Entry‑Level & Apprentice

• Apprentices often start with structured wages tied to apprenticeship levels.

• Apprentices may earn lower initial pay (often mid‑20s or higher per hour depending on trade standards).

• Post‑secondary HVAC apprentices typically work under supervision while training on the job.

2. Journeyman HVAC Technician

• After completing apprenticeship and certification, technicians usually see a significant jump in earnings.

• Journeymen commonly sit in the CA$60,000–$80,000 range annually.

• Top journeymen with specialized commercial or industrial experience can push above CA$90,000+.

3. Senior / Specialized Tech

• Senior HVAC technicians or those with advanced mechanical certification typically command premium pay.

• Salary assessments for related roles like “HVAC Mechanic III” suggest a median near CA$91,500 or more with experience and senior titles.

Factors That Influence HVAC Technician Earnings in Winnipeg

Several key variables affect how high HVAC techs can earn:

1. Experience & Skill Level

Higher experience correlates with more job responsibility and pay. Journeymen generally earn more than entry‑level apprentices, and senior techs earn above journeymen.

2. Certification & Trade Credentials

• Red Seal Certification in Refrigeration & Air Conditioning — a nationally recognized standard — can increase salary because it signals strong expertise.

• Completion of apprenticeship programs in Manitoba is crucial and usually required.

• Additional safety or gas fitting credentials further enhance value to employers.

3. Type of HVAC Work

• Residential HVAC: good base pay, often with steady hours.

• Commercial / Industrial HVAC: typically pays higher due to technical complexity and facility standards.

• Some job listings in Winnipeg for advanced commercial service techs list higher hourly ranges (~CA$45–$55/hr).

4. Overtime & Seasonal Demand

Winnipeg’s extreme winters and humid summers boost demand for emergency service calls and maintenance work, often translating into overtime pay and higher annual income.

5. Employer Type

Larger mechanical contractors or facilities with institutional contracts often provide higher wage scales and benefits compared with smaller local shops.

Job Market Trends in Winnipeg

Winnipeg’s HVAC market is evolving with steady demand due to:

• Residential and commercial construction projects

• Retrofits of older HVAC systems into energy‑efficient units

• Growing need for refrigeration and commercial HVAC skills

• Provincial regulation of HVAC as a compulsory trade, ensuring formal training pathways

Labor market data shows median wages around CA$35–$47/hour in the broader HVAC technologist category, higher than many other regions in Manitoba.

Benefits of Working as an HVAC Technician in Winnipeg

Beyond salary, HVAC technicians often receive:

• Group health and dental benefits

• Paid vacation and statutory holidays

• Union or contractor‑provided pension plans

• Tool allowances or company vehicle support

• Training reimbursement and certification support

• Overtime and on‑call premiums

These benefits, combined with solid wages, make the trade attractive for long‑term careers.

Certifications and Education That Impact Salary

Investing in credentials can boost earnings:

Key Industry Credentials

• Red Seal endorsement in Refrigeration & Air Conditioning

• Apprenticeship certification through Manitoba

• Safety training (WHMIS, OHS)

• Gas fitting or HVAC controls certification

Education Pathways

Salary Comparison: Nearby Canadian Cities

(Note: exact figures for other cities vary by market and cost of living; Winnipeg remains competitive within the Prairie provinces.)

Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Winnipeg

The future remains positive for HVAC technicians in Winnipeg:

• Aging building stock fuels maintenance and replacement projects

• Residential growth continues pace with new construction

• Energy‑efficient retrofits and government incentives support steady hiring

The role remains in demand, especially for certified journeymen and specialized technicians.

Tips to Maximize HVAC Earnings in Winnipeg

• Complete apprenticeship training early

• Pursue Red Seal certification

• Specialize in commercial or industrial systems

• Gain experience with smart HVAC and automation controls

• Take on on‑call and emergency service work when possible

• Build strong customer‑service skills for repeat contracts

Conclusion

The HVAC technician salary in Winnipeg, MB for 2026 provides attractive earning potential, especially for those who invest in certification and skill development. With strong demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, HVAC remains a solid career choice with opportunities for growth, competitive pay, and long‑term stability in the Canadian skilled trades market.