Ammonia Refrigeration Technician

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Operate, inspect, monitor, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair industrial ammonia refrigeration and wastewater treatment systems.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and record operating parameters for refrigeration and wastewater systems.
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance to maximize equipment reliability and minimize downtime.
• Maintain compressors, pumps, valves, evaporators, condensers, vessels, piping, oil management systems, and associated equipment.
• Adjust and monitor system pressures, temperatures, liquid levels, and operating conditions.
• Respond to refrigeration-related emergencies and equipment failures.
• Perform leak detection, system verification, labeling, and Lockout/Tagout activities.
• Dismantle malfunctioning systems and test electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic components.
• Complete work orders and maintenance documentation using the company's CMMS.
• Support refrigeration contractors during shutdowns, pump-downs, repairs, and installations.
• Assist maintenance personnel with general building, electrical, and mechanical repairs as needed.
• Assist Receiving Dept. with operation and maintenance of vacuum cooling systems.
• Support RMP/PSM compliance, audits, inspections, incident investigations, and corrective actions.
• Train and mentor maintenance personnel on safe operation of ammonia refrigeration equipment.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA, EPA, FDA, GMP, SOPs, IIPP, and all company safety policies.
• Maintain excellent housekeeping throughout mechanical spaces.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience maintaining and troubleshooting industrial ammonia refrigeration systems.
• Ability to read blueprints, P&IDs, electrical schematics, ladder diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Working knowledge of ammonia refrigeration controls, electrical systems, PLC interfaces, and computerized monitoring systems.
• Knowledge of Lockout/Tagout, Fall Protection, OSHA, EPA, FDA, GMP, and industrial safety practices.
• Seasonal travel to Yuma, Arizona and Salinas, California is required.
• Associate Degree in HVAC‐Refrigeration, Trade School Certification, or equivalent a plus.
• Knowledge of PLCs programming and troubleshooting is strongly preferred.
• RETA CIRO or CARO certification a plus.

Essential Abilities

• Diagnose complex mechanical and electrical issues.
• Work independently with minimal supervision.
• Communicate effectively with operations, contractors, and management.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records.
• Demonstrate strong safety awareness and attention to detail.
• Prioritize work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Train and assist other technicians as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged standing.
• Lift up to 50 pounds.
• Climb ladders and work from elevated platforms.
• Hand dexterity and strength.