Refrigeration Engineer

Purpose of Job

The Refrigeration Product Engineer is responsible for leading the development of new refrigeration system designs from early research to development of proof of concept to Production. The role includes the application of design for manufacturing tools to create differentiating products for new and existing market segments.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end development of innovative refrigeration systems for self-contained and remote refrigerated display cases, including new products, features, and enhancements that improve temperature performance, energy efficiency, and total cost of ownership (TCO).
• Apply principles of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and airflow analysis to design robust, efficient systems using refrigerants such as R290 and emerging low-GWP options.
• Collaborate with Product Managers, cross-functional engineering teams, manufacturing, and leadership to define and execute DFM/DFMA strategies that support high-quality production, short lead times, and standardization.
• Conduct research, trend analysis, competitive benchmarking, and internal idea gathering to identify opportunities for innovation, standardization, and continuous improvement in the NPD pipeline.
• Develop and test rapid prototypes, proof-of-concept, and functional prototypes using internal resources (e.g., certified R&D labs, refrigeration assembly, sheet metal, and final testing capabilities).
• Perform simulations, testing, and validation to ensure systems meet performance, safety, regulatory (e.g., DOE, NSF, UL), and sustainability requirements.
• Provide technical leadership on refrigeration-related aspects of large transformational projects and step-change improvements.
• Drive deep expertise in relevant business systems (e.g., ERP) to optimize processes, document standards/best practices, and support organization-wide efficiency.
• Work collaboratively across the Hoshizaki Alliance ecosystem to leverage shared capabilities and deliver integrated solutions.
• Support manufacturing scale-up, troubleshooting, and ongoing product improvements to maintain our reputation for reliability and merchandising excellence.
• Perform other duties as necessary to support business objectives. This description guides the role but encourages creativity and initiative beyond listed responsibilities.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, HVACR, or a closely related field
• 5+ years of relevant experience in the design and development of refrigeration systems, preferably for commercial refrigerated display cases, merchandisers, or similar foodservice/retail equipment.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, airflow analysis, and refrigeration components (compressors, evaporators, condensers, controls, etc.).
• Hands-on experience with self-contained and remote refrigeration systems, including hydrocarbon refrigerants (e.g., R290).
• Proven ability to apply DFM, DFMEA, DVP&R, and other product development tools (e.g., phase-gate or APQP processes).
• Experience leading mid-to-large scope projects with minimal oversight and effectively guiding cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in relevant CAD tools for modeling and simulation, preferably Solidworks.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on innovation, quality, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Excellent project management skills: demonstrated ability to organize and manage complex projects simultaneously to meet key deadlines is essential as is the ability to bring projects to successful completion.

Preferred:

• Experience in the commercial refrigeration or food display industry
• Knowledge of energy efficiency standards, sustainable refrigerants, and regulatory compliance.
• Background in rapid prototyping, lab testing, and design validation.
• Familiarity with vertical integration in manufacturing (sheet metal, assembly, powder coating, etc.).