Chief Refrigeration Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Location: Rahway, New Jersey (on-site)

Facility Type: New commercial ammonia (R-717) refrigeration plant

Employment Type: Full-Time

Compensation: $35–$50 per hour, commensurate with experience and license grade

Reports To: Chief Engineer / Facility Manager

License Required: Active NJ Blue Seal 2-C Toxic Refrigeration License (minimum); Red Seal 2-B or Gold Seal 2-A also accepted

We are seeking an experienced Ammonia Refrigeration Operator to join our team at a new commercial ammonia refrigeration facility in Rahway, NJ. This is a hands-on operating position requiring an active New Jersey Blue Seal 2-C Toxic Refrigeration license (or higher) as mandated by N.J.A.C. 12:90. You will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of the facility’s ammonia (R-717) refrigeration systems, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, vessels, and all associated aux systems, controls, and safety equipment.

This is a ground-floor opportunity at a new plant. The right candidate brings proven ammonia operating experience, takes safety seriously, understands PSM/RMP compliance requirements, and is comfortable being a key member of a lean operating team.

What You’ll Do

Operate, monitor, and control the ammonia (R-717) refrigeration system, including screw and/or reciprocating compressors, evaporative condensers, evaporators, recirculators, intercoolers, oil pots, purgers, and receiver vessels.

Maintain safe and efficient system operation by monitoring suction and discharge pressures, oil levels and temperatures, superheat, subcooling, condenser performance, and refrigerant levels.

Adjust system parameters to match load demands while optimizing energy consumption and equipment life.

Perform startup, shutdown, and emergency shutdown procedures in accordance with plant operating procedures and ANSI/IIAR standards.

Respond immediately to ammonia alarms, leaks, and emergency conditions; serve as a member of the facility’s ammonia emergency response team.

Remain within sight and/or sound of the refrigeration plant equipment or stationed in a control room with direct intervention capability, as required by N.J.A.C. 12:90-3.10.

Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on ammonia refrigeration equipment, including oil changes, filter replacements, valve inspections, belt and coupling checks, and condenser cleaning.

Troubleshoot system malfunctions including compressor trips, high-pressure cutouts, low-level alarms, oil pressure failures, and control system faults.

Inspect and maintain safety devices including pressure relief valves, emergency ventilation, ammonia detection systems, and emergency shutoff valves.

Coordinate with maintenance technicians and outside contractors on repairs, welding, and piping modifications.

Maintain accurate operating logs including equipment readings, pressures, temperatures, oil levels, ammonia inventory, defrost schedules, and any abnormal conditions per N.J.A.C. 12:90 requirements.

Participate in required safety training including ammonia awareness, emergency response, first aid, respiratory protection, PPE use, confined space entry, and lockout/tagout.

Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work environment in the engine room and throughout the facility.

Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief Engineer or Facility Manager.

Active New Jersey Blue Seal 2-C Toxic Refrigeration Operator license (per N.J.A.C. 12:90-8.8). Red Seal 2-B or Gold Seal 2-A license holders are strongly encouraged to apply.

Minimum 1 year of hands-on operating experience in a facility using ammonia (R-717) as the primary refrigerant.

Working knowledge of ammonia refrigeration system components: screw compressors, reciprocating compressors, evaporative condensers, plate and shell-and-tube evaporators, recirculators, vessels, purgers, and ammonia piping systems.

Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, refrigeration flow diagrams, equipment manuals, and operating procedures in English.

High school diploma or GED.

Valid driver’s license.

Red Seal 2-B or Gold Seal 2-A Toxic Refrigeration license.

New Jersey Black Seal High-Pressure Boiler Operator license.

This is a full-time hourly position paying $35–$50 per hour based on license level, ammonia experience, and qualifications. We offer a comprehensive benefits package and annual performance bonus: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, Paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time), Retirement plan with company contribution, Annual performance-based bonus, Overtime opportunities

Professional development support, including license upgrade training and continuing education

This position supports a facility that operates on a scheduled basis; shift work (5-man) including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required. Emergency call-in availability is expected. The physical demands include:

Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.