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 Federal OSHA Process Safety Management regulations (29 CFR 1910.119), EPA Risk Management Program requirements (40 CFR Part 68) as administered in Texas by the TCEQ under the Texas Clean Air Act, TCEQ air permit requirements under 30 TAC Chapter 106, ASHRAE Standard 15, and IIAR standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and control all ammonia refrigeration equipment including compressors, condensers, evaporators, pressure vessels, accumulators, pumps, and auxiliary systems
• Maintain system pressures, temperatures, and refrigerant charge within design specifications
• Maintain accurate operator logs and inspection records compliant with OSHA PSM (29 CFR 1910.119), EPA RMP (40 CFR Part 68), and TCEQ 30 TAC106.8 rolling 12-month recordkeeping requirements
• Maintain on-site TCEQ Permit by Rule (PBR) compliance records under 30 TAC106.373 and/or106.477 and make available for immediate inspection upon TCEQ request
• Adhere to PSM/RMP Program Management of Change (MOC) procedures for any system modifications
• Coordinate with contractors and vendors; verify contractor personnel hold required TDLR licenses or qualify under the industrial exemption
• Participate in emergency response planning, drills, and incident investigation
• Promptly report any ammonia releases to the TCEQ as required under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 382 and TCEQ emergency notification rules; notify the National Response Center (NRC) for releases above RQ (100 lbs NH₃) as required under CERCLA
• Complete all required training and maintain current certifications

Requirements

• 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

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree in HVAC/R, Mechanical Technology, or related field preferred
• EPA Section 608 Universal Certification — required by federal law for handling regulated refrigerants
• RETA CARO (Certified Assistant Refrigeration Operator) or CIRO (Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator) preferred
• OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour General Industry certification preferred (Federal OSHA standards apply in Texas)
• TDLR ACR Contractor License (Class A — Process Cooling) preferred if performing maintenance/repair work not covered by the industrial exemption; or verification that the industrial-operation exemption under Texas Occupations Code1302.052 applies to the position
• Valid Texas driver’s license
• If working within the City of Houston: Stationary Engineer’s License (applicable grade) as required by Houston city ordinance

Skills

• 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 (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems) and digital log-keeping
• Strong written and verbal communication for operator logs, TCEQ PBR recordkeeping, and incident reporting
• Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and on-call as required
• Physical ability to wear full PPE including SCBA, Level B chemical suit, and perform confined space entry

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and welfare benefits package
• Flexible work schedule
• Professional development opportunities

Pay

Competitive salary commensurate with experience

Schedule

Rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays as required