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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Kitchen Hood Installer

💰 $45,000 - $75,000 annually, based on experience and certifications

Skilled TradesConstructionHVACInstallation Services

🎯 Role Definition

A Kitchen Hood Installer is a specialized skilled trades professional responsible for the installation, fabrication, and commissioning of commercial kitchen ventilation and fire suppression systems. This role is fundamental to ensuring the safety, compliance, and operational efficiency of commercial kitchens in restaurants, hospitals, schools, and other food service establishments. Working at the intersection of HVAC, sheet metal fabrication, and electrical work, the installer ensures that all components—from the exhaust hood itself to the rooftop fan—are installed according to precise technical specifications, building codes, and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards. This position demands a high level of technical proficiency, physical capability, and a steadfast commitment to safety and quality craftsmanship.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Apprentice Installer or Helper
  • HVAC Technician Trainee
  • Sheet Metal Worker or Fabricator
  • General Construction Laborer with mechanical aptitude

Advancement To:

  • Lead Kitchen Hood Installer
  • Field Supervisor or Foreman
  • Installation Project Manager
  • Fire Suppression System Inspector/Technician

Lateral Moves:

  • Commercial HVAC Service Technician
  • Commercial Kitchen Equipment Technician
  • Building Maintenance Supervisor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Execute the complete, end-to-end installation of commercial kitchen ventilation systems, including exhaust hoods, makeup air units, ductwork, and fans, in strict accordance with project blueprints and specifications.
  • Perform precise on-site field measurements and layout work to ensure proper alignment, fit, and secure mounting of all ventilation components.
  • Skillfully fabricate and install sheet metal ductwork, including measuring, cutting, bending, and assembling sections to create a seamless and efficient exhaust path.
  • Perform welding, typically stainless steel, to create liquid-tight seams and secure connections on hoods and ductwork as required by NFPA 96 standards.
  • Safely rig, lift, and mount heavy equipment, such as large exhaust hoods and rooftop exhaust fans, using appropriate lifting equipment and techniques.
  • Install and connect pre-piped fire suppression systems within the hood, ensuring proper nozzle placement and linkage to the activation mechanism.
  • Perform basic electrical wiring for hood lights, exhaust and supply fans, and control panels, ensuring all connections are safe and compliant with electrical codes.
  • Thoroughly seal all ductwork joints and seams with high-temperature sealant or by welding to prevent grease leakage and ensure system integrity.
  • Penetrate roofs, ceilings, and walls to run ductwork, properly flashing and weatherproofing all openings to prevent water intrusion.
  • Conduct final system testing and commissioning, including balancing airflow, verifying fan operation, and testing the fire suppression system's mechanical activation.
  • Interpret complex blueprints, schematics, and manufacturer installation manuals to guide the installation process and ensure all requirements are met.
  • Ensure all installations strictly adhere to local, state, and federal building codes, as well as industry-specific standards like NFPA 96, UL 300, and IMC.

Secondary Functions

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment on all job sites, strictly adhering to company and OSHA safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Communicate professionally and effectively with general contractors, clients, project managers, and other tradespeople to coordinate installation timelines and resolve on-site challenges.
  • Accurately complete all necessary job-related paperwork, including daily work orders, progress logs, time sheets, and final inspection reports.
  • Proactively troubleshoot and resolve unforeseen installation issues, such as structural obstructions or discrepancies between plans and field conditions.
    s- Manage on-site inventory of materials, tools, and equipment, ensuring all necessary items are available to complete the job efficiently.
  • Provide clear and concise updates on job progress to a Field Supervisor or Project Manager, highlighting any potential delays or issues.
  • Operate company vehicles in a safe and responsible manner while transporting materials and equipment to various job sites.
  • Mentor and provide on-the-job training to apprentice installers, sharing technical knowledge and reinforcing safety best practices.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Blueprint & Schematic Interpretation: Deep proficiency in reading and interpreting architectural and mechanical blueprints, technical drawings, and installation manuals.
  • Sheet Metal Fabrication: Demonstrated skill in cutting, bending, shaping, and joining sheet metal to fabricate ductwork and fittings.
  • Welding: Competency in TIG and/or MIG welding, particularly with stainless steel, to create liquid-tight, code-compliant welds.
  • Mechanical & Electrical Aptitude: Solid understanding of mechanical systems, fan mechanics, and basic electrical wiring for motors, lights, and controls.
  • Knowledge of Codes & Standards: Strong working knowledge of NFPA 96, International Mechanical Code (IMC), and local fire and building codes relevant to commercial kitchen ventilation.
  • Tool Proficiency: Expert use of a wide range of hand and power tools, including drills, grinders, saws, levels, and specialized sheet metal tools.
  • Safe Rigging & Lifting: Knowledge of proper techniques and equipment for safely lifting and moving heavy and oversized equipment.

Soft Skills

  • Problem-Solving: The ability to critically assess on-site challenges, identify the root cause of a problem, and implement effective, practical solutions.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in all aspects of work, from measurements and cuts to final sealing and cleanup, ensuring a high-quality, compliant installation.
  • Physical Stamina & Dexterity: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting heavy objects (50-75 lbs), working at heights on ladders or lifts, and operating in tight spaces.
  • Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication with team members, supervisors, clients, and other contractors to ensure smooth project coordination.
  • Time Management: Excellent organizational skills to manage tasks efficiently, prioritize work, and meet project deadlines.
  • Safety Consciousness: A constant and proactive focus on personal and team safety, with a commitment to following all safety procedures without compromise.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate or Diploma from a vocational or technical school in HVAC, Welding, or Sheet Metal Technology.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • HVAC Systems & Technology
  • Sheet Metal Fabrication
  • Welding Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-5 years of direct, hands-on experience in commercial kitchen hood installation, commercial HVAC installation, or a closely related sheet metal trade.

Preferred:

  • Prior experience as a lead installer or in a role with demonstrated responsibility for project completion. Possession of relevant certifications, such as OSHA 10/30, welding certifications (AWS), or manufacturer-specific installation training, is highly desirable. A valid driver's license and clean driving record are typically required.
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