3E1X1 AFSC HVAC/R — Civilian Career Guide
Installs, maintains, and repairs heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems on Air Force installations worldwide.
CAREER PATHS
4
TOP SALARY
$100,830.00
AVG SALARY
$70,108.00
Civilian Career Matches
Based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Salaries are national medians — your area may vary.
HVAC Technician
SOC 49-9021
$57,300.00
median/yr
Refrigeration Mechanic
SOC 49-9021
$57,300.00
median/yr
HVAC Engineer
SOC 17-2141
$100,830.00
median/yr
Building Automation Specialist
SOC 49-9021
$65,000.00
median/yr
What's your next step?
You've got the civilian career picture. Now: pick what to tackle next. Most 3E1X1 HVAC/R veterans separating in the next 12 months should start here.
Do this first
Start your VA disability claim
File before separation. Every day = back-pay you can't recover. Free claims tracker covers 110+ conditions.
Where to settle
Compare 50 states for veterans
Property tax exemptions, no-state-income-tax states, healthcare access. Side-by-side comparisons.
12-month roadmap
Build your transition timeline
TAP class, VA enrollment, terminal leave, TSP, SkillBridge — all the deadlines no one tells you.
Quick calculator
Estimate your VA combined rating
The VA doesn't add ratings — they use a specific formula. See your combined rating in 30 seconds.
Skills That Transfer
Recommended Certifications
These certifications can increase your salary by 10-25% and make you more competitive for civilian roles.
Translate Your 3E1X1 Experience to a Civilian Resume
Use our free resume builder to convert your HVAC/R skills and experience into language civilian employers understand. Built specifically for Air Force veterans.
More Air Force Career Guides
3E1X1 Jobs by State
Explore 3E1X1 HVAC/R career opportunities by state.