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Entry Level Refrigeration Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin

Entry Level Refrigeration Engineer information

What does an entry level refrigeration engineer do?

An entry level refrigeration engineer assists in the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of refrigeration systems used in various settings such as supermarkets, industrial facilities, and commercial buildings. Their duties often include conducting inspections, troubleshooting issues, performing preventive maintenance, and ensuring systems operate efficiently and safely. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced engineers and may help with system upgrades or retrofits. Entry level refrigeration engineers also learn to comply with safety standards and environmental regulations related to refrigerants.

What typical projects and responsibilities can an entry level refrigeration engineer expect in their first year on the job?

As an entry level refrigeration engineer, you will often assist in designing, testing, and troubleshooting refrigeration systems under the supervision of senior engineers. Your daily tasks may include preparing technical drawings, conducting site visits, performing calculations, and supporting equipment installation and commissioning. You'll frequently collaborate with project managers, HVAC technicians, and clients to ensure project requirements are met. Early career engineers are usually given manageable tasks to build their technical competence and gradually take on more complex assignments as they gain experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level refrigeration engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Refrigeration Engineer, you need a solid understanding of thermodynamics, mechanical engineering principles, and a relevant engineering degree or certification. Familiarity with CAD software, refrigeration cycle analysis tools, and industry standards such as ASHRAE is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with team members and clients set candidates apart. These skills ensure safe, efficient system design and maintenance, which are critical for meeting client needs and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Entry Level Refrigeration Engineer vs Refrigeration Technician?

AspectEntry Level Refrigeration EngineerRefrigeration Technician
CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, HVAC certificationsHVAC/R certifications, EPA 608
Work EnvironmentDesign, installation, troubleshooting of refrigeration systemsMaintenance, repair, and servicing of refrigeration units
Industry UsageManufacturers, engineering firms, large facilitiesCommercial and residential service providers

While both roles involve refrigeration systems, Entry Level Refrigeration Engineers focus on design, installation, and troubleshooting, often requiring engineering knowledge and certifications. Refrigeration Technicians primarily perform maintenance and repairs, working directly on existing systems. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right entry point in the refrigeration industry.

Are entry level refrigeration engineers in demand?

Entry level refrigeration engineers are in demand due to ongoing needs for HVAC and refrigeration systems across various industries. The role often requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of refrigeration tools, with job growth driven by infrastructure upgrades and maintenance requirements.

How to start a career in refrigeration engineering?

To start a career as a refrigeration engineer, obtain a relevant technical diploma or degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, and gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships or entry-level technician roles. Developing skills in HVAC systems, refrigeration components, and certifications such as EPA 608 can improve job prospects in this field.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level refrigeration engineer?

An entry-level refrigeration engineer typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an associate degree in refrigeration, HVAC, or a related field. Relevant skills include understanding of refrigeration systems, electrical components, and safety procedures; certifications such as EPA 608 are often required or preferred. Practical experience through apprenticeships or internships can also be beneficial for starting in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Refrigeration Engineer jobs in Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Refrigeration Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Refrigeration Engineer jobs in Wisconsin?

For Entry Level Refrigeration Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Refrigeration Engineer jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Refrigeration Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Refrigeration Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Maintenance Technician, HVACR IV, M-F 7:30 am- 4:00 pm

Abbott

Madison, WI • On-site

$20.50 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Abbott rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Position Overview
The Maintenance Technician, HVACR IV is responsible for installing, servicing, repairing, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance on all Exact Sciences' heating, ventilating, air conditioning (HVAC), and refrigeration systems. This position is responsible for a range of equipment, from large-scale commercial-grade HVAC systems to multi-zone systems that incorporate direct digital control (DDC), electronic and/or programmable logic controls, rack refrigeration units, and associated evaporators. This position is also responsible for drawing reviews and plans for HVAC/refrigeration modifications, troubleshooting, and leading the installation of components that require control programming and linkage to the building automation system.
Essential Duties:
Include, but are not limited to, the following:
Install, maintain, operate, and repair all Exact Sciences' HVAC, refrigeration, boiler systems, and associated equipment, including preventive maintenance.
Oversee all system components, including drawings and schematics; understand compliance standards; and know state and local building codes.
Work with engineering or scientific personnel to discuss plans, modifications, and user needs; review available plans, specifications, or mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) drawings; determine equipment size, shape, and location.
Perform system and subsystem diagnostics, schedule and maintain complex electronic environmental systems, and calibrate unique components and controls that provide and monitor precise environmental conditions within Exact Sciences facilities.
Provide expertise and technical assistance for a 24-hour operational environment with limited documentation resources.
Respond to service calls and preventive maintenance inspections.
Track the performance of routine and preventative maintenance to ensure the availability of HVACR systems.
Participate in improvement activities that improve the process and work to make recommendations for enhancing the systems and procedures.
Inspect and test systems to verify system compliance with plans and specifications or to detect and locate malfunctions.
Perform evaporator troubleshooting, defrost, and repair, including orifice and direct expansion style evaporators.
React to loss of HVAC and other utility outages and assist in restoration following weather-related events.
Lead or assist with training other team members and entry-level technicians.
Provide technical support and expertise for automated equipment, building infrastructure, systems, and controls to maintain efficient and reliable operation, including completing accurate and up-to-date good manufacturing practice (GMP) documentation.
Analyze, diagnose, and repair equipment, documenting work as required by the quality management system (QMS).
Monitor, repair, and maintain electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems and equipment or coordinate the services of contractors and/or the landlord.
Conduct building inspections to assess the current operational condition, document findings, and take appropriate follow-up action.
Ensure contractor compliance with environment, health, and safety (EHS) policies and procedures, including hot work and lockout tagout.
Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Understand the operation of commercial, medical, and industrial refrigeration systems.
Maintain compliance with all regulatory standards, including GMP, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (WDATCP), and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Participate in the on-call program for emergency service.
Respond to critical alarms.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Excellent problem-solving skills.
Ability to interface and work effectively with all levels of the organization, vendors, and customers.
Uphold company mission and values through accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.
Support and comply with the company's Quality Management System policies and procedures.
Regular and reliable attendance.
Ability to work a designated schedule.
Ability to work overtime as needed.
Ability to work nights and/or weekends.
Ability to lift to 75 pounds for approximately 5% of a typical working day.
Ability to work on a mobile device, tablet, or in front of a computer screen and/or perform typing for approximately 30% of a typical working day.
Ability to grasp with both hands; pinch with thumb and forefinger; turn with hand/arm; reach above shoulder height.
Ability to comply with any applicable personal protective equipment requirements.
Ability and means to travel between Madison locations.
Ability to travel approximately 10% of the time away from the work location, which may include overnight/weekend travel.
Minimum Qualifications:
Associate's degree in HVACR, Mechanical Maintenance, or related field as outlined in the essential duties; or High School Degree/General Education Degree and successful completion of a formal HVACR apprenticeship program in lieu of an associate degree.
7+ years of experience in commercial, industrial, health care, or similar HVACR role.
5+ years of experience with packaged equipment up to 100 tons, troubleshooting Variable Air Volume (VAV) systems and computer room air conditioning (CRAC) systems.
5+ years of experience working with facility software tools, including, but not limited to, Building Automation Systems (BAS), Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), Computer-Aided Facility Management (CAFM), and environmental monitoring.
Must hold and maintain a valid EPA-608 Certification - Universal Refrigeration License at the time of hire.
Possession of a valid driver's license; no suspended, revoked, surrendered, invalid, etc. allowed.
No more than two moving violations, events, or accidents within the last 36 months.
No alcohol or drug event in which a vehicle was driven by the candidate or employee, including but not limited to Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) failure, refusal to submit to alcohol or drug test, alcohol related suspension, etc. in the last 36 months.
No other results from the Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) check that exposes Exact Sciences to what Exact Sciences deems to be an unacceptable level of liability.
Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Demonstrated ability to perform the Essential Duties of the position with or without accommodation.
Preferred Qualifications:
State of Wisconsin HVAC Qualifier Certificate
7+ years of related experience in facilities departments in regulated environments, including laboratory, bio/pharma, industrial, and health care facilities.
Experience in a GMP and/or ISO 13485 environment.
Experience with OSHA, EPA, and FDA regulations.
Experience in repair and maintenance of automated equipment.
Knowledge of CLIA/CAP regulations.
10 Hour OSHA Certification.
The base pay for this position is
$26.50 - $53.00/hour
In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.
JOB FAMILY:
Facilities & Maintenance
DIVISION:
ONCO Cancer Diagnostics
LOCATION:
United States > Madison : 1 Exact Lane
ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS:
WORK SHIFT:
Standard
TRAVEL:
Yes, 10 % of the Time
MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE:
No
SIGNIFICANT WORK ACTIVITIES:
Awkward/forceful/repetitive (arms above shoulder, bent wrists), Continuous sitting for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Continuous standing for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Driving a personal auto or company car or truck, or a powered piece of material handling equipment, Lift, carry, push or pull weights of more than 20 pounds/9 kilos on a regular/daily basis, Work at heights, e.g. ladders, scaffolds, catwalks, etc., Work requiring repeated bending, stooping, squatting or kneeling
Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Women/Individuals with Disabilities/Protected Veterans.
EEO is the Law link - English: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_English.pdf
EEO is the Law link - Espanol: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_Spanish.pdf

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