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Entry Level Refrigeration Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Refrigeration Technician

Fresno, CA · On-site

$24 - $35/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLETechnician for refrigeration department with ability to handle most of the needs ... Entry-level knowledge and ability to perform and understand electrical work.Ability to read ...

... entry-level refrigeration tasks such as completing refrigeration logs under supervision, provided appropriate training and certifications have been completed. The Job Specifics: • Location and ...

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Learn more about our projects and company at: www.jaxmechanicalboilers.com Position Overview JAX Mechanical is seeking motivated Entry-Level and Experienced Commercial Boiler & HVAC/R Service ...

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Entry Level Refrigeration information

See California salary details

$15

$28

$41

How much do entry level refrigeration jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level refrigeration in California is $28.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $32.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level refrigeration?

An Entry Level Refrigeration job involves assisting in the installation, maintenance, and repair of refrigeration systems under the guidance of experienced technicians. Responsibilities may include troubleshooting issues, cleaning components, and ensuring proper system performance. This role provides hands-on experience and training in the refrigeration industry, often leading to certifications and career advancement opportunities.

What does an entry level refrigeration do?

A typical day for an entry-level refrigeration technician often involves assisting with installing, maintaining, and repairing refrigeration units, including freezers, coolers, and air conditioning systems. You may work alongside more experienced technicians, helping with tasks such as checking system pressures, cleaning components, and replacing basic parts. Safety is a key focus, so following proper procedures and using protective equipment is important. The role usually involves travel to job sites or customer locations and requires good communication with customers and team members. Over time, you’ll gain more responsibilities and may have opportunities to advance to higher-level technician roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in entry level refrigeration?

Entry Level Refrigeration professionals need a basic understanding of refrigeration principles, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with basic hand tools, digital gauges, and EPA Section 608 certification for refrigerant handling is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and willingness to learn from experienced technicians help individuals excel in this field. These competencies ensure safety, efficiency, and proper service when installing, maintaining, or repairing refrigeration systems.

How to start a career in entry level refrigeration?

To start a career in entry level refrigeration, gain basic knowledge of HVAC systems and refrigeration principles through technical training or community college programs. Obtain relevant certifications such as EPA 608 and develop hands-on experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions to build practical skills. Strong problem-solving abilities and familiarity with tools are also important for success in this field.

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

The most popular types of Refrigeration jobs in California are:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Refrigeration jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Refrigeration job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Refrigeration job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,477 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Entry Level Refrigeration Tradesman (Union) - Commercial & Industrial

CoolSys

San Jose, CA

$23 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


CoolSys rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 281 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview

With over 150 years of experience, CoolSys is the market-leading indoor environment solutions company. Our full spectrum of best-in-class services includes HVAC & refrigeration installations, remodels, service & maintenance; and energy solutions, including controls and lighting. CoolSys serves customers in the retail, commercial, food service, educational, healthcare, and industrial markets. Headquartered in Southern California, CoolSys has more than 2,000 highly trained, field-based service and installation experts, serving more than 45,000 customer locations across North America daily.
WHAT WE OFFER
We are a large company serving many unique customers – because of this, we provide job stability and long-term opportunities for career growth. We invest in our technicians by offering:

  • Competitive Compensation: Hourly UNION pay $23-$26hr
  • Ongoing Education & Training: Access to state-of-the-art facilities and paid online training.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: UNION Benefits
  • Year-Round, Diverse Work: Stay engaged with consistent, interesting projects throughout the year, working across various industries and systems to keep learning and growing.

Join us and advance your career while working with top-tier clients in the HVAC and refrigeration industry!


Responsibilities

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible to assist in the repair and overhaul equipment, refrigeration, heating and ventilation equipment to ensure customer needs are met efficiently, accurately and on-time.

Install equipment, in accordance with project requirements and under direction of a senior technician:

o Apprentice 1–HVAC: air handler drains, piping for split systems, overhead duct hangers and duct work, etc.

o Apprentice 1–Refrigeration: display case drains, walk in box drains, overhead hangers and piping, etc.

· Perform all assigned work in a safe and responsible manner. Use power and hand tools, powered vehicles, machinery, and PPE as directed and required by Source, customer, and contract policy.

· Escalate problems and concerns (safety, quality of work, etc.) to on-site senior technicians or project managers promptly.

· Maintain clean and professional jobsites/work areas at all time. Properly store, disassemble, or remove all spare and waste materials created on assigned jobsites.

· Provide assistance and support to senior technician/s on a job.

· Carry out all responsibilities in an honest, ethical and professional manner.

· Perform other duties as assigned.


Qualifications

· Education or experience equivalent to a High school diploma, GED, or completion from trade program or technical school.

· 1+ years of experience in the construction, refrigeration, HVAC, or other related industry/trade preferred.

· Ability to operate a scissor lift or forklift preferred.

· Knowledge of jobsite safety, ability to perform work in accordance with safe work practices and rules.

· Ability to use basic power and hand tools including drills, fuel gas tools, electrical meters, measurement tools, etc.

· Ability to be punctual and dependable.

· Ability to work in a variety of working conditions, including scaling ladders to various heights, outdoors in hot/cold temperatures, in noisy environments, etc.

· Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations including fractional addition/subtraction, multiplication, division, and measurements.

· Ability to read, write and communicate timely, clearly and concisely.

· Ability to work constructively in a team environment and follow instructions from senior technician.

· Ability to understand and follow all company policies and procedures and all applicable State and Federal laws.

· Good driving record.


What CoolSys employees say

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