Refrigeration Foreman - Commercial & Industrial

MalaceHR is seeking an experienced Refrigeration Foreman – Commercial & Industrial to lead supermarket refrigeration installation projects while remaining actively involved in field work. This is a hands-on leadership position responsible for supervising installation crews, coordinating project activities, ensuring quality workmanship, and completing installations safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience with supermarket refrigeration systems, copper brazing, underground and above-ground piping and wiring, and is comfortable leading crews while working alongside them in the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the lead technical resource for assigned commercial and industrial refrigeration installation projects.
• Lead, train, mentor, and supervise installation crews consisting of approximately 5–7 technicians .
• Remain hands-on throughout the project, assisting with refrigeration system installations, copper brazing, piping, and related mechanical work.
• Perform and oversee supermarket refrigeration installations, including underground and above-ground piping and wiring.
• Prioritize and delegate daily work assignments to maximize productivity and meet project deadlines.
• Track project schedules and ensure work is completed accurately, safely, and on time.
• Monitor project performance and provide regular status updates to management.
• Control labor hours and assist with project cost management.
• Identify project changes and communicate the need for change orders when appropriate.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with customers, general contractors, subcontractors, vendors, and internal teams.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, company safety policies, PPE requirements, and safe vehicle operation.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, labor tracking, timekeeping, and reporting.
• Oversee third-party contractors when assigned.
• Ensure installations meet project specifications, quality standards, and customer expectations.
• Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Completion of a trade school or technical training program preferred.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in commercial refrigeration, mechanical construction, or a related skilled trade.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on supermarket refrigeration installation experience is required.
• Extensive experience performing supermarket refrigeration installations.
• Hands-on experience with copper brazing .
• Experience installing and working with underground and above-ground refrigeration piping and wiring systems .
• Previous leadership or foreman experience supervising field crews preferred.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

Required Skills

• Strong technical knowledge of commercial and industrial refrigeration systems.
• Extensive experience with supermarket refrigeration installation methods and best practices.
• Proficiency in copper brazing, refrigeration piping, and mechanical installations.
• Strong understanding of construction principles and efficient labor utilization.
• Proven leadership, mentoring, and crew management abilities.
• Excellent organizational and project coordination skills.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to effectively prioritize work and delegate responsibilities.
• Excellent communication skills with customers, contractors, and project teams.
• Ability to manage labor hours and support change order documentation.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment and enforcing all safety policies.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), work order and dispatch software, ERP systems, and other business applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification.
• Experience leading large commercial refrigeration installation projects.
• Experience coordinating multiple subcontractors and construction trades.
• Knowledge of project scheduling and construction management software.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in commercial construction, supermarket, and industrial environments.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, kneel, crouch, crawl, and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, brazing equipment, and refrigeration installation equipment.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions and construction environments.