Position Summary

The Refrigeration Technician completes the day-to-day activities of the Refrigeration Department to ensure meeting the department and overall plant goals of safety and quality. Maintain PSM (Process Safety Management) program of the facility. Responsible for coverage of all shifts as needed. Additionally, this position will provide training programs to the refrigeration department staff, as well as understanding interpretations of construction and safety codes as related to operating an ammonia system in a safe efficient manner.

• Oversee and manage Anhydrous Ammonia Refrigeration Systems including monitoring and trending, troubleshooting and repairs (Compressors, condensers, fans, microprocessors, frequency drives, etc.).
• Operate and maintain the Process Safety Management and Risk Management Plan.
• Perform system responsibilities that include plant processes in a GMP environment. The system includes Blast Freezing Equipment along with temperature-controlled environments for food storage.
• Monitor, maintain, and/or improve continuously all aspects of refrigeration department, including specifications, sampling, procedures, methods, deviations, equipment, supplies, records, books, files,
• Participate in Ammonia system operations as necessary.
• Assist in developing, organizing, scheduling, and conducting training programs for the refrigeration system, hazmat team, confined space entry and rescue team.
• Review the SOP’s for the refrigeration system, ensure that all piping is labeled and valve numbers are in place and accurate.
• Maintain all PSM documentation and training records that pertain to the PSM program. Organize, schedule, and conduct PSM meetings, compile and maintain PSM action logs, assist in completing items on action item log.
• Inspect and maintain the HazMat equipment in accordance with 29CFR 1910.119.
• Maintain and perform the facility environmental testing program to assure compliance with all customer and regulatory requirements.
• Work closely with production, maintenance, and warehouse personnel to effectively resolve and eliminate plant and process problems.
• Communicate daily all pertinent information regarding system operation and maintenance to department management.
• Work in conjunction with maintenance and other refrigeration technicians to cross train on system maintenance to obtain adequate coverage across all shifts.
• Assist management in developing standard operating procedures, daily work schedules and duty cycles for all repairs and maintenance, relating to refrigeration equipment.
• Interpret and understand plans and specifications, schematics, operating and maintenance manuals for applicable systems.
• Maintain plant boiler and hot water systems.
• Participate in the Plant Safety Committee when applicable.
• Perform all other duties, responsibilities, and special projects as assigned.

Education/Training

Required:

• High School diploma

Preferred:

• Technical College/RETA Ammonia Refrigeration Operator certification
• Knowledge of PSM programs

Required:

• Technical knowledge of ammonia refrigeration systems.
• Ability to stand on feet in a plant environment for up to 12 hours.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds on a regular basis, and occasionally more pounds inside and outside of the facility.
• Ability to stand, twist, reach, and bend on a regular basis.
• Ability to cover day shift and night shift as needed.

Preferred:

• Experience in a food manufacturing and packaging environment.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Slip resistant footwear
• Apron or smock or uniform
• Company supplied gloves
• Hairnet/beard net
• Ear, eye, and head protection gear
• Other PPE such as protective eyewear or gloves may be required depending on task.

Employees Supervised: None

Work Environment: Typical food manufacturing environment with regular exposure to heat and cold environments depending on the area assigned.

Equipment Used: Electrical meters and maintenance tools

Safety Sensitive Position: Yes