Appliance & Refrigeration Technology
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Potential Positions
Major appliance and residential refrigeration program graduates have become successful technicians, service managers and business owners. Opportunities exist for rewarding careers in fields such as refrigeration technology, major appliance technology, vending machine maintenance, parts distribution and environmental salvage.
Employment Outlook
Nationally, employment is expected to grow more slowly (6%) than the average for all occupations through the year 2012. Prospects, however should continue to be good for well-trained service technicians, particularly those with a strong background in electronics. Within 9 months after graduation, the estimated employment rate for the Appliance & Refrigeration Technology program is 85%. The graduate starting median wage is $13.05 with a wage potential of $26.23.
*Graduate wages and placement obtained from SBCTC/WA unemployment files from 2004-05. Wage potential is based out of Whatcom County and obtained from LMEA. For further information, contact the Counseling & Career Center at 360-752-8450.
Typical Tasks
Specific tasks typically required of a major appliance technician, often called service technician, include:
Fixing home appliances such as ovens, washers, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, and microwaves;
Inspecting appliances to check for unusual noises, excessive vibration, fluid leaks, or loose parts to determine why they fail to operate properly;
Consulting service manuals and troubleshooting guides to diagnose difficult problems,
Disassembling appliances to examine their internal parts for signs of wear or corrosion;
Following wiring diagrams and using testing devices, such as ammeters, voltmeters, and wattmeters to check electrical systems for shorts and faulty connections;
Replacing and repairing defective belts, motors, heating elements, switches, gears, or other items;
Tightening, aligning, cleaning, and lubricating parts as necessary;
Answering customers’ questions about the care and use of appliances; and
Writing up estimates of the cost of repairs for customers, keeping records of parts used and hours worked, preparing bills, and collecting payments.
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This program typically starts in Fall, Winter and Spring Quarters
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