Stationary Ammonia Operator

About the Role

The Stationary Ammonia Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and code-compliant operation of industrial ammonia refrigeration systems at a distribution center or ammonia plant in the State of Texas. This position requires comprehensive knowledge of ammonia refrigeration mechanics and full compliance with relevant federal and state regulations.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree in HVAC/R, Mechanical Technology, or related field preferred
• EPA Section 608 Universal Certification
• RETA CARO (Certified Assistant Refrigeration Operator) or CIRO (Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator) preferred
• OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour General Industry certification preferred
• TDLR ACR Contractor License (Class A — Process Cooling) preferred or verification of industrial-operation exemption
• Hazardous Materials First Responder — Operations Level or higher
• Valid Texas driver’s license
• If working within the City of Houston: Stationary Engineer’s License (applicable grade)

Experience

• Minimum 2–5 years of experience operating industrial ammonia refrigeration systems
• Experience in cold storage, food processing, or distribution center environment preferred
• Demonstrated working knowledge of OSHA PSM (29 CFR 1910.119) and EPA RMP (40 CFR Part 68) compliance
• Familiarity with TCEQ permit requirements under 30 TAC Chapter 106 preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Thorough understanding of the anhydrous ammonia refrigeration cycle, thermodynamics, and system components
• Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, mechanical drawings, equipment manuals, and TCEQ permit documents
• Proficiency with CMMS and digital log-keeping
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and on-call as required
• Physical ability to wear full PPE and perform confined space entry

General Duties & Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and control all ammonia refrigeration equipment
• Maintain system pressures, temperatures, and refrigerant charge within design specifications
• Monitor and respond to system alarms and emergency conditions
• Maintain accurate operator logs and inspection records compliant with regulations
• Adhere to PSM/RMP Management of Change (MOC) procedures
• Coordinate with contractors and vendors
• Participate in emergency response planning and incident investigation
• Support EHS programs and promptly report ammonia releases

Daily Inspection & Maintenance Duties

• Record compressor suction/discharge pressures, temperatures, oil levels, and amp draws
• Inspect compressors, condensers, evaporators, and auxiliary systems
• Verify ammonia gas detection/alarm systems are operational
• Perform portable gas detector sweep of engine room
• Document all readings, observations, and corrective actions
• Inspect refrigerated dock doors, coolers, freezers, and floor drains

Weekly Inspection & Maintenance Duties

• Test operation of high-pressure and low-pressure cutouts
• Inspect and exercise manual shut-off valves
• Lubricate compressor components
• Inspect condenser coil cleanliness and cooling tower water treatment
• Test battery backup and UPS systems
• Calibrate ammonia detector sensors

Monthly Inspection & Maintenance Duties

• Perform full compressor oil analysis and change oil as needed
• Inspect and clean compressor oil coolers
• Megger test compressor motors
• Calibrate ammonia gas detectors
• Test emergency shutdown systems
• Inspect pressure gauges, thermometers, and insulation
• Review and update Process Safety Information (PSI) documents

Quarterly Inspection & Maintenance Duties

• Perform full preventive maintenance on compressors
• Inspect valve plates, piston rings, and cylinder walls
• Test and certify pressure relief valves
• Perform vibration analysis on rotating equipment
• Conduct Mechanical Integrity inspection of piping systems
• Review and update P&IDs and PSM/RMP documentation

Semi-Annual Inspection & Maintenance Duties

• Comprehensive inspection of pressure piping systems
• Ultrasonic thickness testing on high-priority piping