Looking to build a hands-on career you can be proud of? As a Sheet Metal Apprentice, you will dive into the world of commercial HVAC installation, learning real skills that grow with you year after year. From your first day on the job, you will work side-by-side with experienced pros — measuring, cutting, assembling, and installing ductwork that keeps buildings running at their best.
Over four years, you will master everything from reading blueprints to installing equipment and even learning basic welding techniques. Every day brings the opportunity to build something real, take on bigger challenges, and become a vital part of a high-performing team.
We are looking for motivated, dependable individuals who are ready to show up, work hard, and keep raising the bar. If you are someone who loves solving problems, working with your hands, and being part of a team, this is where your future in the trades starts.
New England Air Systems has an in-house apprentice program that takes 4 years to complete with a combination of 8,000 on the job training hours and classes that will teach you building foundations for learning about the sheet metal trade.
Ready to earn while you learn — and set yourself up for a career that lasts a lifetime? Join our team.
In this role, you will be responsible for:
- Measures, cuts, and welds pieces together according to specifications, blueprints, or directions from foreman.
- Identify and assemble common ductwork types.
- Correctly connect, hang, seal, and insulate ductwork.
- Install fire and smoke dampers, as well as access doors.
- Assemble knocked-down ductwork (field assembly).
- Properly use hand tools, electric tools, ladders, and lifts (LK's).
- Keep a clean and organized work area.
Skill Progression Across the Program:
- Year 1: Focus on core skills like tape measure reading (to 1/16”), basic hand tool use, ductwork identification, and assembling/hanging/sealing ductwork.
- Year 2: Develop insulation skills, begin following foreman sketches for duct runs, and interpret HVAC blueprints at a basic level.
- Year 3: Gain proficiency in quickly and accurately assembling all types of duct and fittings. Start reading and understanding blueprints with guidance.
- Year 4: Work independently as directed by the foreman, demonstrate strong measurement skills, begin basic welding knowledge, and accurately install HVAC equipment.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
- Ability to lift, carry, and move materials weighing up to 50 lbs or more.
- Capable of standing, bending, and working on feet for 8+ hours per shift.
- Occasionally required to push, pull, climb, or balance during tasks.
- Maintain and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection and steel-toe boots at all times.
The team you will be joining:
Our Operations Team is a group of a dynamic and collaborative employees that turns plans and drawings into reality. This team is made up of skilled professionals who work together to coordinate installs, solve on-site challenges, and ensure projects are completed to the highest quality standards. With a focus on craftsmanship, teamwork, and precision, the Operations Team takes pride in delivering high-quality systems and meeting deadlines. As a member of this team, you will work alongside hard-working employees who support each other and embrace every challenge with a solution-oriented mindset.
Who we are looking for:
- Ability to make sound decisions and solve problems on the job.
- Strong leadership potential and interpersonal skills.
- Solid verbal, written, and computer communication skills.
- Organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines.
- Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to stay engaged and proactive.
- Commitment to teamwork, professionalism, and customer service.
- The ability to work in a high-paced, sometimes stressful environment.
- Desire to stay busy and continuously seek out opportunities for work.
- Ability to travel to different job sites around VT and NH with a reliable vehicle.
Qualifications
- A clean, valid Vermont driver’s license and reliable transportation.
- Maintains a strong record of attendance and dependability.
- Follow instructions accurately and learn quickly on the job.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
- Ability to lift, carry, and move materials weighing up to 50 lbs or more.
- Capable of standing, bending, and working on feet for 8+ hours per shift.
- Occasionally required to push, pull, climb, or balance during tasks.
- Maintain and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection and steel-toe boots at all times.
- High school diploma or equivalent; trade school certification or technical training is a plus.
- The ability to climb and work from up to a 40-foot ladder.
Who we are
New England Air Systems is proud to serve as the industry leader in comprehensive mechanical systems throughout Vermont, New Hampshire, and upstate New York. We design, build, install, maintain, and service HVAC, refrigeration, and plumbing systems for commercial, industrial, and institutional clients. With a legacy of living our values since 1972, we are committed to customer relationships and building systems that last.
We believe that great work starts with great people. That’s why we foster a culture built on collaboration, growth, and excellence. As one of Vermont’s top employers, we invest in our team through ongoing training and advancement opportunities—ensuring that you are not just doing a job but building a career that lasts a lifetime.
Benefits
The base hourly range for this role is $18.00 to $31.00 per hour based on the level of apprentice that you are in. We determine final compensation based on discussions with applicants and their experience in similar roles.
- A competitive salary
- Medical Insurance with a Health Reimbursement Account
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Life Insurance for employees and their dependents
- 401(k) Plan with Company Match
- Flexible Spending Accounts and Dependent Care Accounts
- Paid Holidays and Vacations
- Paid Parental Leave
- Company-Provided Uniforms for Field Employees
- Company-Supplied Power Tools and Equipment
