As of 2026, Quebec City, QC remains a solid market for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians. With Quebec’s cold winters and ongoing construction activity, skilled HVAC professionals are in demand — offering competitive wages and opportunities for career growth. This detailed, SEO-friendly guide breaks down salary ranges, key factors influencing pay, experience tiers, job market trends, certifications, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in Quebec City, QC
HVAC technicians in Quebec City typically earn competitive wages compared to provincial averages, though rates can vary by employer, experience, and specialization.
Annual and Hourly Compensation
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Hourly Wage (Quebec City) | ~$32.90 per hour (average reported) |
| Typical Annual Range Estimate | ~$50,000 – $80,000+ CAD (based on hourly rate × full year) |
| Provincial Median Hourly (Quebec) | ~35.00 CAD/hr median |
💡 Based on provincial wage data, most HVAC technicians in Quebec earn somewhere between $24.00 and $48.00 per hour depending on experience and role.
💡 Broader Canadian data suggests an average HVAC salary around 66,000 CAD annually, which provides useful context for comparison with Quebec City.
Salary by Experience
Experience is one of the strongest factors affecting HVAC technician earnings in Quebec. As technicians gain skills, their earning potential increases significantly.
Experience-Based Earnings
| Experience Level | Typical Hourly | Estimated Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | ~26–28 CAD/hr | $45,000–$55,000 |
| Mid-Level (3–6 yrs) | ~30–36 CAD/hr | $55,000–$70,000 |
| Senior (7+ yrs) | ~38–45 CAD/hr+ | $70,000–$85,000+ |
These figures are based on provincial wage distributions and local salary reports, adjusted for Quebec City market trends.
Technicians with extensive experience and advanced skills (such as commercial HVAC or complex refrigeration systems) may command higher pay.
Factors That Influence HVAC Earnings in Quebec City
Several key factors influence how much you can earn as an HVAC professional in Quebec City:
1. Experience & Skills
More skilled technicians naturally command higher wages, especially those who can troubleshoot complex systems or specialize in high-end installations.
2. Certifications
Certifications and trade credentials boost credibility and pay. These include:
Provincial refrigeration and HVAC certificates
Technical diplomas from CEGEP or trade schools
Safety and code compliance certifications
3. Type of Work
Residential HVAC generally pays less than commercial or industrial work.
Commercial/industrial HVAC often involves higher complexity and higher pay.
4. Shift Work & On-Call Pay
Technicians who take on on-call shifts or emergency service roles may earn overtime premiums.
Job Market Trends in Quebec City (2026)
The HVAC job market in Quebec City continues to show steady demand due to:
Harsh seasonal climates driving need for heating maintenance
Growth in residential and commercial construction
Increasing emphasis on energy-efficient HVAC systems
Retrofit and maintenance work on aging buildings
Technicians who stay current with energy-efficient technologies, smart HVAC systems, and sustainable HVAC practices are especially sought after.
Benefits of Being an HVAC Technician
Beyond salary, HVAC technicians often enjoy additional career benefits:
✔ Job stability in a trade with ongoing demand
✔ Opportunity for overtime and shift premiums
✔ Health and retirement benefits (depending on employer)
✔ Skill diversification (refrigeration, controls, automation)
✔ Growth into supervisory or project management roles
Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
Education and certifications separate good technicians from top earners. In Quebec, valuable credentials include:
High-Value Qualifications
Professional HVAC Technician Diploma (CEGEP/trade school)
Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Certificate
Safety and Code Compliance Certifications
Controls/automation and energy-efficiency training
Education and Salary Impact
| Education Level | Likely Impact |
|---|---|
| High School + Apprenticeship | Entry level |
| Technical Diploma/CEGEP | +10–20% |
| Advanced/ Specialized Certifications | +15–30% |
Advanced credentials often open doors to commercial or industrial HVAC jobs with higher pay.
Quebec City vs Nearby Cities: HVAC Salary Comparison
Here’s how HVAC salaries in Quebec City compare to other major cities in Quebec:
| City | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| Montreal, QC | ~$33.03/hr (slightly higher) |
| Quebec City, QC | ~$32.90/hr |
| Quebec Province Avg. | ~$31.10/hr |
| Higher paying nearby (e.g., Mont-Royal) | ~$44.53/hr |
Insight: Quebec City’s pay is competitive within the province but slightly below larger urban hubs like Montreal. However, living costs in Quebec City can be lower than in Montreal, which may balance income differences.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in 2026
The HVAC profession in Quebec City is projected to remain stable through 2026 and beyond. Continued demand arises from:
Regular maintenance needs in residential and commercial properties
Climate-driven demand for heating systems
Growth in construction and renovation sectors
Focus on energy efficiency and green building solutions
With roughly balanced supply and demand, qualified technicians have good employment prospects and opportunities for career growth.
How to Increase Your HVAC Salary
Here are actionable ways HVAC technicians can boost earnings:
Earn advanced certifications early in your career
Gain hands-on experience with commercial systems
Specialize in energy-efficient and smart HVAC technologies
Take on-call or overtime shifts when possible
Stay current with building codes and safety regulations
Example Career Path & Salary Progression
| Career Stage | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Apprentice / Entry | ~$45,000–$55,000 |
| Certified Technician | ~$60,000–$72,000 |
| Senior/Lead Technician | ~$75,000–$90,000+ |
This highlights potential salary increases as skills and experience grow.
Final Thoughts
The HVAC technician salary in Quebec City, QC for 2026 shows a healthy and competitive compensation environment within the trades sector. Whether you’re just starting or advancing into senior roles, Quebec City offers solid pay, stable demand, and opportunities to grow your career — especially if you invest in certifications and specialized skills. Skilled HVAC technicians remain essential to everyday comfort and infrastructure resilience in the region, making this a rewarding and sustainable career choice.