Question 1

What is a salamander and why is it important to know how to repair it?

Accepted Answer

A salamander is an overhead broiler used in commercial kitchens to finish dishes, melt cheese, and char proteins. They are found in virtually every full-service restaurant and are prone to gas valve, pilot, and burner failures that require fast turnaround.

Question 2

What brands of salamanders are covered in the course?

Accepted Answer

The course covers Vulcan, Southbend, Garland, Imperial, and Montague salamanders and broilers. You will work on both standing-pilot and electronic-ignition models.

Question 3

Will I learn to work on infrared burner systems?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Infrared burner diagnostics and replacement are a dedicated module in the course, including ceramic tile inspection, burner port cleaning, and gas pressure testing.

Question 4

Do I need prior experience to enroll?

Accepted Answer

No prior experience is required. Our courses are designed for complete beginners as well as restaurant staff who want to formalize their skills. The Electrical Fundamentals course is a great starting point if you have no technical background.

Question 5

How much does each course cost?

Accepted Answer

Each individual course is $1,000. The full 12-week training program, which covers all nine equipment types, is $12,000. Financing options are available through partners including Climb Credit, Meritize, Georgia WIOA, and SNAP E&T.

Question 6

How long is each course?

Accepted Answer

Each course runs for one week of intensive, hands-on instruction. Classes meet Monday through Friday at our Atlanta training center at 510 Jones Ave NW.

Question 7

What certification do I receive after completing a course?

Accepted Answer

Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion in Commercial Kitchen Equipment Repair from Metro Star Mechanical Training Center. The 12-week program also prepares students for EPA 608 certification (required for refrigerant handling) and CFESA industry credentials.

Question 8

How many students are in each class?

Accepted Answer

Class sizes are capped at 25 students to ensure every student gets hands-on time with the equipment. Seats fill quickly — we recommend enrolling at least 4 weeks before your target start date.

Question 9

Is financing available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with eight financing partners including Climb Credit, Meritize, Sallie Mae, Earnest, College Ave, Ascent Funding, Georgia WIOA, and SNAP E&T. Visit our Financing page for details and application links.

Question 10

Where are classes held?

Accepted Answer

All courses are held in person at Metro Star Mechanical Training Center, 510 Jones Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30314. We do not currently offer remote or online instruction — hands-on lab time is central to the curriculum.

Question 11

What job can I get after completing the training?

Accepted Answer

Graduates work as commercial kitchen equipment technicians, refrigeration service technicians, HVAC/R technicians, restaurant equipment repair specialists, and preventive maintenance technicians. Starting salaries in the Atlanta metro area typically range from $45,000 to $65,000 per year.

Salamanders Repair Course

What You'll Learn

Course Details

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Resources & Insights

Gas Appliance Safety in Commercial Kitchens

Frequently Asked Questions

Salamanders Repair Course | Metro Star Mechanical Training Center