Refrigeration Technician

Role Overview

This position ensures that all refrigeration, air conditioning, and utility systems supporting dairy processing operate reliably and efficiently around the clock. Day to day, the technician inspects, maintains, and repairs cooling equipment to prevent product spoilage and avoid costly production interruptions. The role directly impacts product quality, energy efficiency, and compliance with safety regulations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, inspect, and repair refrigeration units, air conditioning systems, and industrial cooling equipment.
• Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on chillers, cold rooms, ice banks, and water cooling systems.
• Monitor operating parameters and equipment performance to maximise efficiency and identify emerging issues.
• Troubleshoot faults and carry out timely repairs to reduce downtime and maintain continuous operations.
• Conduct routine inspections and condition monitoring, documenting maintenance requirements and work completed.
• Participate in root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence of failures.
• Supervise external contractors during maintenance activities to ensure quality and adherence to standards.
• Support shutdowns, emergency breakdowns, and on-call maintenance rotations as required.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Trade Test in Refrigeration & Air Conditioning plus an Ordinary Diploma and at least five years’ experience in a manufacturing setting; OR a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering with minimum one year of relevant experience.
• Hands-on experience with refrigeration systems, HVAC, and industrial utilities.
• Solid understanding of preventive maintenance techniques and fault diagnosis.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and schematics.
• Working knowledge of Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) regulations.
• Proficient in MS Excel and MS Word for reporting and record-keeping.
• Experience in dairy or food processing environments is highly valued.
• Familiarity with vibration analysis, laser alignment, and equipment balancing is an advantage.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Comfortable working independently and under pressure to meet production targets.