Refrigeration / Aircon Mechanic
Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics help shops, offices, hospitals and factories use less electricity by installing and servicing more efficient cooling, heating and air conditioning systems. In South African trials at supermarkets, a dairy and a hospital, larger cooling systems that run on natural refrigerants, which are cooling gases such as carbon dioxide, used up to 24 per cent less energy.
Jobs in the energy transition
Natural refrigerant technician
You'd install and service newer cooling systems in supermarkets, food factories and hospitals that run on natural refrigerants such as carbon dioxide, ammonia or propane and use less electricity.
Extra training: You'd need extra training in handling these refrigerants safely, like the training given to technicians in South Africa's pilot projects.
Building air conditioning technician
You'd install, adjust and maintain heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems in offices, shopping centres and factories so they keep people comfortable while using less electricity.
How to get there
The qualifications
You'd work towards the Occupational Certificate: Refrigeration Mechanic, which is at NQF Level 4, the same level as Matric.
What you need to start
The official minimum is a Grade 9 pass, or another qualification at the same level, with Mathematics.
These are the official minimum requirements, and colleges can set higher ones.
Where you can study
Data verified June–July 2026 from official college publications and the DHET occupational qualifications register. Spot an error? Suggest a correction.
Your career starts here.
Join the Jobox talent pool and get matched to funded opportunities at growing South African businesses.
You need to be 18 or older to register.