Ammonia/Industrial Refrigeration Mechanic

Ammonia/Industrial Refrigeration Mechanic

We are seeking an experienced Ammonia/Industrial Refrigeration Mechanic to lead our refrigeration team and oversee the operation and maintenance of one of our three locations with ammonia refrigeration systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial refrigeration and ammonia systems, ensuring compliance with safety regulations while optimizing system performance and efficiency. You will play a key role in maintaining operational excellence and driving continuous improvement initiatives within the facilities.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Manage the operation and maintenance of ammonia and industrial refrigeration systems, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
• Oversee the installation, repair, and troubleshooting of refrigeration equipment, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, and related controls.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards, regulations, and environmental guidelines regarding ammonia handling and refrigeration operations.
• Develop and implement maintenance schedules and best practices to minimize downtime and extend equipment life.
• Conduct regular inspections and assessments of refrigeration systems to identify potential issues and recommend improvements.
• Train and mentor staff on refrigeration system operation, safety protocols, and best maintenance practices.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to support process improvements and equipment upgrades.
• Maintain accurate records of system performance, maintenance activities, and compliance documentation.
• Manage budgeting and cost control for refrigeration operations, including inventory management for spare parts and supplies.
• Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical and electrical principles.
• Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
• Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
• Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
• Servicing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines.
• Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Performing General Physical Activities
• Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
• Operating vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, snorkel lifts, manlifts and/or passenger vehicles.
• Braze or solder parts to repair defective joints and leaks.
• Open and close CA Rooms as directed following SOP protocols.
• Observe and test system operation, using gauges and instruments.
• Test lines, components, and connections for leaks.
• Dismantle malfunctioning systems and test components, using electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic testing equipment.
• Adjust or replace worn or defective mechanisms and parts, and reassemble repaired systems.
• Read blueprints to determine location, size, capacity, and type of components needed to build refrigeration system.
• Install wiring to connect components to an electric power source.
• Perform mechanical overhauls and refrigerant reclaiming.
• Cut, bend, thread, and connect pipe to functional components and water, power, or refrigeration system
• Monitor refrigeration process control systems
• Respond to refrigeration alarms to identify, diagnose and correct system malfunctions and deficiencies.
• Other plant maintenance may be required of a general nature not specifically related to refrigeration duties.
• The certification and use of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) required.

• Adhere to good manufacturing practices, personal and work area hygiene & food safety standards and requirements.
• Comply with all OSHA laws governing workplace safety and health
• Follow all Plant Safety requirements and adhere to the Company Handbook.
• Other Duties as assigned.

Work Environment/Physical Requirements:

• RETA or IIAR Certifications strongly preferred.
• Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
• Work in controlled atmosphere storage rooms.
• Exposed to indoor and outdoor work environment ranging from hot to cold temperatures.
• Exposed to confined spaces and moderate amounts of ammonia and/or other chemical hazards.
• Must have good communication skills oral and written.
• Must be flexible and adaptable to constantly changing schedules.
• Excellent physical ability.
• Ability to lift, pull, and push.
• Ability to lift overhead.
• Good time management.
• Ability to work well with others
• Ability to give and receive direction
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of changing situations
• Ability to work overtime as needed
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Good problems solving and organizational skills

Experience/Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Refrigeration Technology, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• 5+ years of experience in ammonia and industrial refrigeration management or a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of ammonia refrigeration systems, industrial cooling processes, and related safety protocols.
• Familiarity with relevant regulations, including OSHA, EPA, and state/local safety requirements.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage a team effectively.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Certification in ammonia refrigeration (e.g., IIAR Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator).
• Experience with automated control systems and refrigeration management software.
• Knowledge of energy efficiency practices and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.

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