Job Description
Position Summary
The Refrigeration Technician is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, and repair of the plant’s industrial refrigeration systems, with a strong focus on Ammonia (NH3) systems used in food manufacturing. This role ensures all refrigeration, HVAC, and related utility systems operate efficiently and in compliance with PSM/RMP, safety standards, and food-manufacturing requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Refrigeration & Ammonia System Maintenance
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Operate, monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain ammonia refrigeration systems, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, vessels, valves, and controls.
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Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on all refrigeration equipment.
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Identify and repair leaks, faulty components, or system inefficiencies.
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Maintain proper documentation of system logs, readings, and any corrective actions.
Safety & Compliance
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Follow all PSM (Process Safety Management) and EPA/RMP guidelines for ammonia systems.
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Ensure compliance with OSHA, FDA, USDA, GMPs, and company safety policies.
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Support PSM documentation: SOPs, MOC (Management of Change), incident investigations, and training records.
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Participate in emergency response procedures related to ammonia and other utilities.
Utilities & Facility Support
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Maintain and troubleshoot HVAC systems, boilers, air compressors, chillers, water systems, and supporting utilities.
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Respond to equipment failures and urgency calls to minimize production downtime.
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Assist in system startups, shutdowns, calibrations, and seasonal transitions.
Documentation & Reporting
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Maintain accurate work orders, PM records, parts usage, and system logs.
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Report deviations, safety concerns, and equipment failures to leadership.
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Assist with audits, inspections, and regulatory reporting as needed.
Qualifications
Required
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2–5 years experience working with industrial ammonia refrigeration (food or cold-storage preferred).
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Knowledge of retail or industrial refrigeration systems: screw compressors, reciprocating compressors, evaporators, condensers, VFDs, and PLC-based controls.
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Understanding of PSM/RMP regulations and ammonia safety practices.
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Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals.
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Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to work independently.
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Ability to work in cold/wet/hot environments and lift up to 50 lbs.
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Availability for on-call, weekends, or overtime as required.
Preferred
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CARO or CIRO certification (IIAR).
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RETA training or certification.
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Experience in food manufacturing, dairy, ice cream, or beverage processing.
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Knowledge of PLCs, automation, and control systems.
Core Competencies
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Strong mechanical and technical aptitude
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Commitment to safety and regulatory compliance
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Problem-solving and troubleshooting
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Attention to detail and documentation accuracy
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Teamwork and communication
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Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment
Work Environment
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Exposure to cold environments, ammonia, chemicals, loud noise, and manufacturing equipment.
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Use of PPE including respirators, goggles, gloves, and hearing protection.