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Ammonia Refrigeration Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Level II Ammonia Operator Certification required. * Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator ... CIRO) preferred. * EPA Proper Refrigerant Usage Certification required. * Valid driver's license.

Refrigeration Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

Ammonia Refrigeration Operator / Technician Location: Knoxville, TN Compensation: $27-$36/hr + overtime Company: Nationwide Food Manufacturer Schedule 12-hour shifts (6am-6pm or 6pm-6am) 2-on / 2-off ...

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Ammonia Refrigeration Operator information

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$15

$25

$31

How much do ammonia refrigeration operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for ammonia refrigeration operator in the United States is $25.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into ammonia refrigeration?

To become an ammonia refrigeration operator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in refrigeration systems and safety protocols. Many employers require certification such as the EPA Section 608 or ammonia refrigeration operator licenses, along with hands-on experience working with refrigeration equipment and controls.

What are the daily responsibilities of an ammonia refrigeration operator?

As an Ammonia Refrigeration Operator, your day will typically involve monitoring and controlling refrigeration equipment, performing preventive maintenance, recording system parameters, and responding to alarms or system irregularities. You will also routinely inspect components for signs of leaks or wear, troubleshoot issues, and liaise with maintenance technicians or facility managers as needed. Operators often work in teams and may rotate shifts to ensure 24/7 system coverage, especially in industries where production is continuous. Staying organized and vigilant is crucial in maintaining system integrity and meeting safety standards.

How do you become an ammonia refrigeration operator certified?

To become a certified ammonia refrigeration operator, individuals typically complete specialized training programs that cover refrigeration systems, safety procedures, and handling of ammonia. They often need to obtain a license or certification from relevant state or industry authorities, which may require passing written and practical exams. Experience working with refrigeration equipment and knowledge of safety standards are also important for certification eligibility.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an ammonia refrigeration operator?

To thrive as an Ammonia Refrigeration Operator, you need solid knowledge of industrial refrigeration systems, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with specialized training in ammonia refrigeration. Certification such as RETA CIRO or CARO, and proficiency in using monitoring systems, gauges, and hand tools, are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding operators apart. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient plant operation and for quickly diagnosing and addressing system issues to prevent costly downtime or hazards.

Is ammonia refrigeration a good career?

Ammonia refrigeration operators manage systems that use ammonia as a refrigerant, often working in industrial or commercial facilities. The role requires technical skills, safety training, and certifications, and offers steady employment with opportunities for advancement in the refrigeration and HVAC industries.

What is an ammonia refrigeration operator?

An Ammonia Refrigeration Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining industrial ammonia refrigeration systems used in food processing, cold storage, and manufacturing facilities. Their duties include performing safety checks, troubleshooting system issues, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. They may also handle emergency response situations related to ammonia leaks or system failures. Operators must have knowledge of refrigeration principles, regulatory guidelines, and proper handling of hazardous materials. Certification and specialized training are often required for this role.

More about Ammonia Refrigeration Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Ammonia Refrigeration Operator jobs? Cities with the most Ammonia Refrigeration Operator job openings:
What states have the most Ammonia Refrigeration Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Ammonia Refrigeration Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ammonia Refrigeration Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ammonia Refrigeration Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Ammonia Refrigeration Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,458 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Ammonia Refrigeration Operator / Technician

OSI Jobs

Knoxville, TN

$27 - $36/hr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Ammonia Refrigeration Operator / TechnicianLocation: Knoxville, TNCompensation: $27 $36/hr + overtimeCompany: Nationwide Food ManufacturerSchedule12-hour shifts (6am 6pm or 6pm 6am)2-on / 2-off / 3-on rotating scheduleDay and night shift opportunities availableJob SummaryNationwide food manufacturer seeking Ammonia Refrigeration Operators and Technicians to support operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of industrial ammonia refrigeration systems in a food processing environment. Open to candidates ranging from developing operators to experienced refrigeration technicians.Job Requirements1 6 years of industrial maintenance and/or ammonia refrigeration experienceExperience troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems preferredAbility to read P&IDs and technical diagramsRETA/CARO/CIRO certifications preferred or willingness to obtainExperience with compressors, pumps, valves, boilers, or industrial utilities preferredComfortable working in industrial environments with varying temperatures and physical demandsStrong safety awareness, communication, and teamwork skills

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About OSI Jobs

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

OSI Jobs is an executive search firm that specializes in the contingency and retained recruitment of food & beverage and medical device manufacturing professionals across the United States. For over 20 years, OSI Jobs has been particularly successful completing searches with a high-level need. This includes searches that need to be conducted confidentially, that need to be filled rapidly, must be handled sensitively, or are particularly tough to fill, etc. We have the latest in search technology at our fingertips. We conduct our searches rapidly and with the utmost respect and attention to confidentiality. We have a strong commitment to the professional representation of our clients and our candidates. Our recruiting process reflects our high standard for integrity and ethical standards.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Cleveland, OH, US

Year founded

1992

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