Becoming an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technician in Burnaby, British Columbia offers a strong career path with competitive compensation, growth opportunities, and steady demand driven by residential and commercial construction as well as maintenance needs. In this article, we’ll explore the HVAC technician salary in Burnaby for 2026, factors affecting pay, experience-based earnings, job market trends, certifications that boost income, and how Burnaby compares to nearby cities.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in Burnaby, BC (2026)
In Burnaby, HVAC technicians are paid well compared with many Canadian cities, largely due to higher costs of living in the Greater Vancouver area and strong demand for HVAC skills.
Estimated Salary Overview
| Salary Measure | Amount (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Wage | ~$46.10/hr | Reported averages from employee submissions |
| Typical Annual Salary Range | ~$41,000 – $112,000 | Wide range due to experience and role |
| Entry-Level Hourly Range | ~25 – 35/hr | Lower range for apprentices or entry roles |
| Experienced Journeyperson | ~45 – 65+/hr | Based on job postings and regional trends |
Summary: HVAC technicians in Burnaby generally earn higher-than-average wages for trade jobs, with strong variation based on experience and employer.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience heavily influences earnings as technicians gain technical proficiency, certifications, and on-the-job troubleshooting skills.
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
Roles typically include assistive tasks, basic installations, and maintenance support.
Salary: ~$25 – $35 per hour (approx) depending on apprenticeship status and employer.
May include support roles before full certification.
Mid-Level (3–6 Years)
Technicians handle more complex installations, diagnostics, and repairs across residential and light commercial systems.
Salary: ~$40 – $55 per hour.
Many employers prefer Red Seal or equivalent credentials by this stage.
Senior / Journeyperson (7+ Years)
Highly experienced technicians can take lead roles, supervise teams, and service larger commercial or industrial systems.
Salary: ~$55 – $65+ per hour or higher with specialty skills such as automation controls or advanced HVAC/R systems.
Experienced HVAC technicians in Burnaby who take on supervisory tasks or specialized maintenance can see earnings near or above the top of local ranges.
What Influences HVAC Technician Earnings in Burnaby
Several factors affect how much you can earn as an HVAC technician:
1. Certifications & Licensing
Red Seal Endorsement (HVAC/R) – widely respected across Canada and often required for higher pay.
Gas fitting and refrigeration licenses increase earning potential significantly.
Advanced certifications in smart HVAC systems and energy efficiency can add value.
2. Type of Work
Residential installations generally pay less than commercial or industrial systems work.
Maintenance on large buildings, automation control systems, or specialty HVAC setups often earns premiums.
3. Employer & Job Type
Large firms or industrial contractors usually offer higher wages and fuller benefits.
Small service companies sometimes provide performance bonuses or overtime pay.
4. Demand & Seasonality
British Columbia’s varied climate means year-round work: winter heating and summer cooling demand keep technicians consistently busy.
Job Market Trends for HVAC Technicians in Burnaby
Burnaby is part of the Greater Vancouver region, one of Canada’s most active job markets for trades:
Population growth and increased commercial construction fuel demand.
Energy-efficient buildings and retrofitting add steady maintenance work.
Smart building systems and advanced HVAC technologies create new specialization opportunities.
The job outlook remains strong through 2026 and beyond, with employers seeking both experienced technicians and apprentices.
Benefits of Working as an HVAC Technician in Burnaby
Aside from competitive wages, HVAC technicians in Burnaby often enjoy:
Medical, dental, and extended health coverage
Pension or retirement plans
Company vehicles and travel allowances
Paid training and professional development
Overtime and on-call compensation
Many mid-size and large employers also offer structured career growth, moving from technician to supervisory or project lead roles.
Education and Certifications That Impact Salary
The right credentials not only improve pay but also career longevity:
High-Value Certifications
Red Seal HVAC/R – recognized proficiency standard across Canada
Gasfitter Certification (Class A or B)
Refrigeration and HVAC Automation Credentials
Workplace safety certifications (e.g., WHMIS, first aid)
Education Pathways
| Level | Typical Credential | Salary Impact |
|---|---|---|
| High School + Apprenticeship | HVAC foundation training | Entry-level wages |
| College Diploma / Technical Certificate | HVAC/R specialization | +10–15% |
| Certified Journeyperson + Red Seal | Full qualification | +20–30% or more |
Employers often pay a premium for certified technicians because certifications indicate higher competency and reliability on complex jobs.
Comparing Burnaby with Nearby Cities
Burnaby sits within a competitive regional job market in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland:
| City | Average Hourly HVAC Wage |
|---|---|
| Surrey, BC | ~$48.20/hr |
| Vancouver, BC | ~$47.80/hr |
| Burnaby, BC | ~$46.10/hr |
| Victoria, BC | ~$45.97/hr |
| Delta, BC | ~$45.77/hr |
Burnaby’s HVAC technician rates are very close to Vancouver and Surrey, making it competitive for skilled tradespeople in the region.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Burnaby
The demand for qualified HVAC technicians is expected to remain steady to strong through 2026 and beyond due to:
Continued urban development
High HVAC maintenance needs in multi-family and commercial properties
Expansion of energy-efficient and automated HVAC systems
Technicians with advanced credentials and specialized skills will find the most opportunities and higher pay prospects.
Final Thoughts
The HVAC technician salary in Burnaby, BC in 2026 reflects a vibrant job market with competitive compensation, especially for certified and experienced workers. With continued regional growth and investment in modern buildings, HVAC professionals can expect stable career progression, strong wages, and a variety of opportunities in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
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