Industrial Refrigeration Technician

Industrial Refrigeration Technician

Overview
The Industrial Refrigeration Technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of industrial refrigeration systems, with a primary focus on ammonia (NH₃) systems used in cold storage, food processing, and industrial facilities. This role is highly hands-on and requires strong mechanical and electrical aptitude, a safety-first mindset, and the ability to work in demanding environments.

The Technician plays a critical role in ensuring refrigeration systems operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulatory standards, minimizing downtime and protecting product integrity.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Duties

• Operate, maintain, and repair industrial refrigeration systems, including ammonia (NH₃), Freon, and CO₂ systems.
• Monitor system performance, pressures, temperatures, and controls to ensure proper operation and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues involving compressors, evaporators, condensers, pumps, valves, piping, and control systems.
• Perform preventative maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, leak detection, and system inspections.
• Identify and resolve ammonia system issues, including leaks, pressure imbalances, and mechanical failures.
• Support system startups, shutdowns, and defrost cycles in accordance with operational procedures.
• Assist with installation and commissioning of new refrigeration equipment and system upgrades.
• Read and interpret P&IDs, electrical schematics, and mechanical drawings.
• Ensure all work complies with safety standards, including OSHA, EPA, and IIAR guidelines.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all ammonia safety procedures, including proper PPE usage, lockout/tagout (LOTO), and emergency response protocols.
• Participate in Process Safety Management (PSM) programs and adhere to Risk Management Plan (RMP) requirements where applicable.
• Respond to refrigeration alarms and emergency situations, including ammonia leak events.
• Maintain accurate logs of system readings, maintenance activities, and compliance documentation.

Operations & Field Support

• Respond to service calls, work orders, and emergency maintenance requests in a timely manner.
• Coordinate with operations, maintenance teams, and supervisors to minimize system downtime.
• Communicate system status, issues, and repair recommendations clearly to internal teams and management.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in a clean and safe condition.

Customer & Team Interaction

• Work collaboratively with plant personnel, contractors, and other technicians.
• Provide clear updates on system performance, repairs, and preventative measures.
• Support a team-oriented environment focused on safety, reliability, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Required: Hands-on experience working with ammonia (NH₃) refrigeration systems in an industrial environment.
• 2+ years of experience in industrial refrigeration, HVAC/R, or related mechanical field.
• RETA certification (CARO/CIRO) or equivalent ammonia refrigeration training preferred.
• Strong understanding of refrigeration principles, including pressure-temperature relationships and system operations.
• Working knowledge of electrical systems, motors, controls, and instrumentation.
• Experience with compressors (reciprocating, screw), vessels, and control systems.
• Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, schematics, and technical manuals.
• Familiarity with PSM/RMP programs and industrial safety standards.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to work flexible hours, including on-call or emergency response.

Core Competencies

• Strong troubleshooting and mechanical aptitude with the ability to quickly diagnose complex system issues.
• Safety-focused mindset, especially when working with ammonia and high-pressure systems.
• Good listener who can gather details, ask the right questions, and identify root causes before acting.
• Clear and professional communicator with team members and supervisors.
• Dependable, self-motivated, and capable of working independently in industrial environments.
• Organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities, tasks, and system demands.

Pay: $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Experience:

• NH3 Refrigeration: 1 year (Preferred)
• Industrial Refrigeration: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person