Refrigeration Technician
11 days ago
Madison
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 • Operate, monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain ammonia refrigeration systems, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, vessels, valves, and controls., • Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on all refrigeration equipment., • Identify and repair leaks, faulty components, or system inefficiencies., • Follow all PSM (Process Safety Management) and EPA/RMP guidelines for ammonia systems., • Ensure compliance with OSHA, FDA, USDA, GMPs, and company safety policies., • Support PSM documentation: SOPs, MOC (Management of Change), incident investigations, and training records., • Maintain and troubleshoot HVAC systems, boilers, air compressors, chillers, water systems, and supporting utilities., • Respond to equipment failures and urgency calls to minimize production downtime., • Maintain accurate work orders, PM records, parts usage, and system logs., • Report deviations, safety concerns, and equipment failures to leadership., • Assist with audits, inspections, and regulatory reporting as needed. Qualifications Required • 2–5 years experience working with industrial ammonia refrigeration (food or cold-storage preferred)., • Knowledge of retail or industrial refrigeration systems: screw compressors, reciprocating compressors, evaporators, condensers, VFDs, and PLC-based controls., • Understanding of PSM/RMP regulations and ammonia safety practices., • Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals., • Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to work independently., • Ability to work in cold/wet/hot environments and lift up to 50 lbs., • CARO or CIRO certification (IIAR)., • RETA training or certification., • Experience in food manufacturing, dairy, ice cream, or beverage processing., • Knowledge of PLCs, automation, and control systems. Core Competencies • Strong mechanical and technical aptitude, • Commitment to safety and regulatory compliance, • Problem-solving and troubleshooting, • Attention to detail and documentation accuracy, • Teamwork and communication, • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment Work Environment • Exposure to cold environments, ammonia, chemicals, loud noise, and manufacturing equipment., • Use of PPE including respirators, goggles, gloves, and hearing protection.