Ammonia Refrigeration Technician

Position Summary

Reporting to the Maintenance Managers, the Refrigeration Technician (Ammonia) is responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of ammonia refrigeration systems and plant utilities.

This includes ammonia refrigeration systems, boilers, compressed air systems, and water supply. The role focuses on daily and weekly preventive maintenance, system inspections, and coordination with third-party providers for advanced maintenance and repairs.

This is a cross-functional role supporting production operations and broader maintenance activities. The position also ensures compliance with food safety and quality standards, including SQF, HACCP, GMP, and Process Safety Management (PSM).

Reporting Relationships

• Reports to: Maintenance Managers
• Direct Reports: None
• Backup Support: Refrigeration Technician, Maintenance Manager, Building & Grounds

What You'll Do Every Day

• Perform preventive maintenance (PMs) on ammonia refrigeration systems and identify additional PM needs
• Conduct routine inspections and support mechanical integrity programs
• Perform minor repairs on ammonia system equipment
• Troubleshoot and resolve electro-mechanical issues
• Support development and implementation of electronic PM systems
• Partner with third-party vendors for specialized system maintenance
• Assist with plant utility systems (boilers, compressed air, water systems)
• Collaborate with maintenance team on cross-functional projects and plant improvements
• Ensure compliance with regulatory programs, including Risk Management Program (RMP)
• Support project work related to plant utility systems
• Follow all safety, food safety, and quality standards
• Immediately report any food safety or quality concerns

What We're Looking For

• 1–3 years of hands-on experience with:
  • Ammonia refrigeration systems
  • Natural gas-fired boilers
  • Compressed air systems
• Working knowledge of Process Safety Management (PSM)
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings
• Familiarity with PLCs, process instrumentation, and process systems
• Experience writing or following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams
• Adaptability in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Intermediate computer skills (MS Office, Outlook, etc.)
• Must be able to read, write, and speak English (Spanish is a plus)

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, and twisting
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Regular hand use for grasping, pushing/pulling, and fine manipulation
• Occasional overhead reaching (approximately 20% of time)
• Work environment includes exposure to:
  • Moving mechanical parts
  • Fumes or airborne particles
  • Heat, gas, and electrical systems
• May work in high or precarious places and varying environmental conditions
• Use of appropriate PPE required