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Wondering What A TAB Career Looks Like?
Hear It Firsthand.

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Meet TAB - Where No Two Buildings, and No Two Days Are the Same.

Ever wonder who makes buildings actually work? It’s not just about construction – it’s about precision, performance, and people who know how to bring it all together. That’s where Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing (TAB) comes in. 

TAB professionals are the behind-the-scenes problem solvers making sure HVAC systems deliver just the right airflow, pressure, and comfort in every space – whether it’s a hospital, school, office, or high-rise. No two buildings are the same, and neither are your days on the job. 

If you like working with your hands, thinking on your feet, and making a real impact, a career in TAB might be exactly what you’re looking for. 

Here, you’ll find everything you need to know to get started – what the job looks like, the skills you’ll need, salary expectations, union vs. non-union options, and more. 

Test and Balance Technician Salary

State

Arizona

Texas

Maryland

Ohio

North Carolina

Florida

Average Salary

$92,186

$88,400

$70,000

$50,331

$50,723

$58,500

Test and Balance Engineer Salary

Region

West

Midwest

South

East

Average Salary

$106,000

$90,000

$85,000

$85,000

Test and Balance Technician In-Training

Region

West

Midwest

South

East

Average Salary

$65,000

$55,000

$52,000

$60,000

Sources: Google, Glassdoor, Talent.com, ERI, and Indeed.

Union or No Union? Learn the Difference.

Union:

Being in a union as a TAB technician or engineer provides structured wages, strong benefits like healthcare and pensions, and job protection through negotiated contracts. It also includes formal training and certifications but comes with dues and less flexibility in choosing projects or employers.

Non-Union:

Non-union TAB roles offer more freedom to pick employers, negotiate pay, and advance based on merit. However, they often come with lower starting wages, fewer benefits, and less job security, with training usually being self-funded or informal.

AABC Recruitment Project Scholarship Info

Scholarship Opportunities

Working in the TAB field doesn’t just offer a steady career – it also opens doors to valuable opportunities like scholarships, discounted certifications, and chances to attend industry conferences. These programs are designed to support your growth, whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your skills.

While requirements may vary, here are some general things scholarship programs often look for:

  • Enrollment in a Relevant Program
    – Must be enrolled or accepted into a technical school, community college, or trade program focused on HVAC, TAB, or mechanical systems.
  •  
  • Minimum GPA
    – A minimum GPA is often required (usually 2.5 or higher), although some scholarships focus more on skills or need than academics.
  •  
  • Personal Statement or Essay
    – Most applications require a brief essay outlining your career goals, background, and interest in the HVAC/TAB field.
  •  
  • Letters of Recommendation
    – At least one recommendation from an instructor, employer, or mentor is often requested.
  •  
  • Resume or Proof of Experience
    – Especially for professional development grants or industry-specific scholarships, showing related experience or a resume is beneficial.
  •  
  • Career Commitment
    – Applicants should express a clear intention to pursue a career in HVAC/TAB or building systems.

Sample Job Descriptions

TAB Engineer

TAB Technician

TAB Tech in Training

State Average Salary
Arizona
$92,186
Texas
$88,400
Maryland
$70,000
Ohio
$50,331
North Carolina
$50,723
Florida
$58,500

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Contact Information

  • AABC Headquarters;
    1015 18th St. NW
    Suite 603
    Washington, D.C. 20036
  • Phone: 202-737-0202
  • Fax: 202-315-0285
  • [email protected]

Contact Us

PLEASE NOTE: If you have questions about becoming  AABC certified, please visit https://www.aabc.com/join-aabc and read the information there prior to submitting a question using this form.

  • Suggested Drawing Specification

    An independent Testing and Balancing Agency certified by the AABC shall be engaged to Test and Balance the HVAC systems. Systems shall be balanced to plus/minus 10% of design requirements. The contractor shall place all systems and equipment into full operation for Testing and Balancing. One copy of the final Test and Balance report with the AABC National Performance Guaranty shall be sent directly to the engineer of record. Provide five (5) additional copies to the contractor.

  • AIA-Format LONG-FORM SPECIFICATION

    Section 230593 – TESTING, ADJUSTING AND BALANCING FOR HVAC

  • AIA-Format SHORT – FORM SPECIFICATION

    Section 230593 – TESTING, ADJUSTING AND BALANCING FOR HVAC

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