Refrigeration Maintenance Technician - Bellingham-Lynden, WA

Responsible for the maintenance, repair, and safe & efficient operations of the facility’s refrigeration system, processing machinery, and all associated infrastructure under the guidance of the Maintenance Manager. Ensures compliance with company policies, safety standards, operational requirements, and OSHA PSM requirements for ammonia refrigeration safety.

Responsibilities

• Assist with operation of 1600 HP single-stage ammonia refrigeration system, including compressors, condensers, IQF Freezer tunnels, air units, and controls.
• Maintain and repair processing equipment as required.
• Troubleshoot, test, and repair electrical controls and motors.
• Weld and fabricate, primarily stainless steel (food processing equipment).
• Maintain and document refrigeration system operations, preventative maintenance, and record keeping in accordance with PSM Standards and Practices.
• Participate in the facility Safety team and ongoing improvement initiatives.
• Maintain compressed air system.
• Monitor and maintain incoming water and wastewater outflow systems.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Able to work in a fast-paced production environment up to seven days per week.
• Must be able to work various shift schedules and overtime.
• Able to work with minimal supervision and competent in reporting and logbook documentation.
• Thorough and resourceful when faced with machinery failure and taking action to repair.
• Previous experience with industrial ammonia refrigeration (one year or more); prefer 1 to 2 years’ technical schooling or related work experience.
• Certified or trained at an Operator Level of refrigeration education. Current RETA certification or other notable schooling, or able to attain RETA-CARO level certification within one year. CIRO, CRES & CREST or equivalent are preferred.
• Electrical experience with 24/120/208/240/460-volts, including single-phase and three-phase power supplies.
• Basic understanding of multiple welding processes—Gas, Stick, TIG, MIG.
• Food processing experience a plus.
• Experience with conveyance systems.
• Familiarity with three-phase electric motors, controls, and troubleshooting of failures.
• Familiarity with electric-powered forklifts and pallet jacks a plus.
• Good mechanical aptitude: able to use hand tools, power tools, and electrical multimeters.

Work Environment

• Fast-paced berry-processing facility operating 24 hours per day during harvest season.
• Working around elevated noise levels and fast-moving machinery.
• PPE required: hardhat, hearing, and eye protection.
• Use of full-face air-purifying respirators after successful medical clearance and fit testing.
• Must be able to regularly carry 10 lbs. and occasionally lift and carry 25 to 50 lbs.
• Regularly required to stand and walk for extended periods; may use steps and ladders.
• Duties may include working in low-temperature conditions in cold storage spaces or product coolers down to -50°F.
• Daily interaction with production supervisors, lead staff, and quality assurance department.

Pay

$37.25 – $42.55 per hour, depending on experience.