Refrigeration Specialist

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Maintenance

• Operate and monitor industrial refrigeration systems, including ammonia (NH₃), Freon, and glycol-based systems .
• Conduct regular inspections of compressors, condensers, evaporators, pumps, valves, and control systems.
• Maintain equipment in compliance with food safety and USDA/FDA standards .
• Optimize system efficiency to maintain required temperature and humidity conditions in production and storage areas.

Troubleshooting & Repairs

• Diagnose equipment malfunctions and perform corrective repairs on refrigeration, HVAC, and related utility systems.
• Respond to emergency breakdowns to minimize production downtime.
• Maintain accurate logs of repairs, system adjustments, and inspections.

Compliance & Safety

• Adhere to Process Safety Management (PSM) and EPA regulations regarding ammonia and other refrigerants.
• Perform safety checks, leak detection, and emergency response procedures.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, HACCP, GMPs, and company-specific food safety policies.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain detailed maintenance and compliance records (temperature logs, service reports, inspections).
• Support audits by regulatory agencies and customer quality teams.
• Assist with preventive maintenance scheduling and continuous improvement initiatives.

Collaboration

• Work closely with production, sanitation, and quality assurance teams to maintain food safety standards.
• Provide technical guidance to operators and maintenance staff as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (Technical certificate or Associate’s degree preferred).
• Minimum 3–5 years experience in industrial refrigeration maintenance (food manufacturing preferred).
• Knowledge of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR certification a plus) .
• EPA Universal Refrigeration Certification required.
• Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills.
• Familiarity with PLC controls, automated systems, and energy management systems .
• Ability to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and on-call rotations.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to work in cold environments (–10°F to 40°F) for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Work around loud machinery, chemical refrigerants, and moving equipment while wearing appropriate PPE .

Preferred Skills

• Industrial maintenance background with exposure to food processing equipment.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, HACCP, and sanitation requirements .
• Experience with boilers, air compressors, and water treatment systems is a plus.