Refrigeration/HVAC Maintenance Technician 4 - Ripon

Job Summary

Serve as a highly skilled technical expert responsible for the safe, efficient operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of industrial ammonia refrigeration systems and HVAC equipment used for precise wine and juice temperature control, as well as facility climate management.

Essential Functions

• Expertly operate, monitor, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain industrial ammonia refrigeration systems, ensuring optimal performance for wine/juice temperature control while adhering to Process Safety Management (PSM) and Risk Management Program (RMP) requirements.

• Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, electrical, and control issues in ammonia systems (e.g., screw/reciprocal compressors, evaporative condensers, glycol/brine loops) and HVAC systems (e.g., package units, split systems, chilled water loops).

• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance, including inspections, oil analysis, vibration monitoring, leak detection/repair, valve overhauls, pump-outs, and system pump-downs/restarts, following all mandated safety procedures.

• Complete accurate documentation, including logs, maintenance records, work orders, PSM checklists, and regulatory compliance reports.

• Demonstrate strong leadership: train and mentor team members on refrigeration/HVAC processes, safety protocols, and SOPs; assign workloads and evaluate performance when acting in a supervisory capacity.

• Analyze operational data to identify inefficiencies, recommend improvements (e.g., energy-saving upgrades, process optimizations), and proactively address potential issues to prevent downtime or quality impacts.

• Interact effectively with management, vendors, contractors, and cross-functional teams; communicate technical information clearly in verbal and written form.

• Ensure full compliance with all company policies, safety standards, GMPs, OSHA/EPA regulations, and winery-specific protocols for hazardous chemical handling (including ammonia).

Other Functions

• Support emergency response and participate in incident investigations related to refrigeration/HVAC systems.

• Assist with system installations, modifications, or upgrades as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 - 5 + years of hands-on experience with industrial ammonia refrigeration systems (preferred in food/beverage/winery environments) and demonstrated expertise in HVAC maintenance/repair.

• Proven advanced knowledge of ammonia refrigeration principles, components, and troubleshooting (e.g., screw/reciprocating compressors, electrical controls, PLCs, alarm systems).

• Experience with HVAC systems, including chillers, air conditioning units, ventilation, and related utilities.

• Strong understanding of PSM/RMP programs, RETA (Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association) standards, and relevant certifications (e.g., CARO, CIRO, or equivalent ammonia operator certification preferred; willingness to obtain if not held).

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical/vocational training or associate degree in refrigeration/HVAC/mechanical systems strongly preferred.

• Excellent computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook; familiarity with CMMS or refrigeration monitoring software a plus).

• Demonstrated leadership, problem-solving, and initiative in fast-paced environments.

• Superior attention to detail, safety record, attendance, and work performance history.

• Must be 18+ years old, pass pre-employment physical, drug screen, and any required testing/certifications (e.g., First Aid/CPR/AED, Emergency Responder).

• Ability to embrace and demonstrate The Wine Group Core Values: Long-Term Sustainable Value Creation, Relentlessly Entrepreneurial, Empowered People who are Responsible and Trustworthy.

Physical Demands

• Lift and carry up to 55 lbs. repeatedly.
• Climb stairs, vertical tank ladders (up to 60’+), enter confined spaces/manholes, and perform work at heights while using appropriate fall protection.
• Work with hazardous chemicals (including ammonia) and wear required PPE (respirators, face masks, chemical suits, etc.).
• Perform tasks involving bending, stooping, kneeling, lifting, pulling, pushing, and working in varying temperatures/extreme conditions.
• Ability to respond to emergency calls outside regular shifts.

Compensation

$44.30/hr.