Refrigeration Technician

Refrigeration TechnicianHot JobDivision Street - Madison, WI 53704OverviewSalary Range $35.00 - $45.00 HourlyPosition SummaryThe 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 ResponsibilitiesRefrigeration & Ammonia System MaintenanceOperate, 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.Maintain proper documentation of system logs, readings, and any corrective actions.Safety & ComplianceFollow 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.Participate in emergency response procedures related to ammonia and other utilities.Utilities & Facility SupportMaintain and troubleshoot HVAC systems, boilers, air compressors, chillers, water systems, and supporting utilities.Respond to equipment failures and urgency calls to minimize production downtime.Assist in system startups, shutdowns, calibrations, and seasonal transitions.Documentation & ReportingMaintain 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.QualificationsRequired2–5 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.Availability for on-call, weekends, or overtime as required.PreferredCARO 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 CompetenciesStrong mechanical and technical aptitudeCommitment to safety and regulatory complianceProblem-solving and troubleshootingAttention to detail and documentation accuracyTeamwork and communicationAbility to work effectively in a fast-paced production environmentWork EnvironmentExposure to cold environments, ammonia, chemicals, loud noise, and manufacturing equipment.Use of PPE including respirators, goggles, gloves, and hearing protection.