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Entry Level Refrigeration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Refrigeration information

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How much do entry level refrigeration jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level refrigeration in the United States is $28.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level Refrigeration job?

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.

Can HVAC make $100,000 a year?

Entry level refrigeration technicians and HVAC installers typically earn lower starting salaries, but experienced professionals with certifications, specialized skills, and overtime can reach or exceed $100,000 annually. Achieving this income often requires years of experience, advanced training, and working in high-demand or commercial environments.

Is 27 too late to start HVAC?

Entry level refrigeration technicians can start at age 27, as the industry values skills, certifications, and training over age. Many pursue technical programs or apprenticeships to gain experience and certifications like EPA or HVAC licenses, making age less of a barrier to entering the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Refrigeration position, and why are they important?

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 can I get into refrigeration?

To start a career in refrigeration, gaining technical knowledge through vocational training or an apprenticeship is essential. Many entry-level positions require a high school diploma and basic understanding of electrical systems, with certifications like EPA 608 often required for handling refrigerants. Hands-on experience with refrigeration systems and familiarity with tools are valuable for advancing in this field.

Can I be a HVAC tech without going to school?

Becoming an entry-level refrigeration or HVAC technician typically requires technical training or an apprenticeship, as these jobs involve working with complex systems and safety protocols. While formal education is not always mandatory, most employers prefer candidates with some training or certification, such as EPA certification, to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge.

What does a typical day look like for someone in an entry-level refrigeration role?

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.

More about Entry Level Refrigeration jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Refrigeration jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Refrigeration job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Refrigeration jobs? The most popular types of Refrigeration jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Refrigeration jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Refrigeration jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Refrigeration job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,266 per year, or $29 per hour.
MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN - AMMONIA REFRIGERATION

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN - AMMONIA REFRIGERATION

United Dairy Farmers

Norwood, OH

$24 - $33/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


United Dairy Farmers rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 48 rated convenience stores


Job description

UDF is seeking a Maintenance Technician - Ammonia Refrigeration. This position is responsible for providing maintenance to refrigeration related equipment, tools and machinery for UDF manufacturing maintenance specific to overall refrigeration operations (Ammonia and Glycol). Role helps in supporting refrigeration operations of one 70,000 S.F. ice cream manufacturing facility located in Norwood Ohio, food production operations are primarily performed in Norwood.  Ammonia Refrigeration experience. This is a full-time position, hours 7am - 3:20pm.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Visually inspect, test and clean machinery and equipment
  • Detect any malfunction of equipment, troubleshoot and diagnose problems, performing the repair to ensure high reliability
  • Conducting daily rounds to observe and record temperatures.
  • Disassemble defective machinery and equipment, install new or repaired parts
  • Perform regular and preventive maintenance, repairs, improvements and related project work on production equipment, facility and utility systems in accordance with maintenance standards, keeping a safe and sanitary work environment
  • Work in conjunction with maintenance manager/Supervisor and team members, operations and sanitation supervisors to identify and correct any safety or equipment issues in order to facilitate a safe and problem free environment.
  • Perform work that helps maintain plant quality performance standards, assuring compliance with all HACCP, FMSA standards in alignment with maintenance practices.
  • Provide on- and off-hour emergency response to major equipment issues & damage control
  • Will follow established programs, policies and practices to produce safe quality foods that meet regulatory and company requirements. Will support the development, implementation, maintenance and ongoing improvement of the SQF 2000 Food Safety System.
  • Working knowledge of International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration Standards, particularly IIAR 9 related inspection, maintenance, and Mechanical integrity
  • Ability to perform work at heights, including climbing ladders, accessing roof mounted equipment and working on elevated platforms.
  • Technicians primary work location will be Norwood, Ohio. Technician may be requested to assist at company facilities in Kentucky for projects, maintenance support and other Operational task as needed. Travel time and mileage will be compensated
  • Ability to assist with the operation and basic maintenance of the companies Wastewater treatment system
  • Ability to troubleshoot and perform minor maintenance of the company’s two Va Power Steam Generators
  • Ability to troubleshoot and service industrial air compressors ( Sullair LS 100’s)
  • May be eligible to be trained and qualified as an emergency first responder for ammonia

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

  • High School Diploma or Trade school study in Machinery, Industrial Machinery Mechanics, HVAC Mechanics, Ammonia, Glycol, etc. preferred
  • 5+ years of experience as a maintenance mechanic or an equivalent combination of education and experience which would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the assigned work
  • Experience with preventative and predictive maintenance programs.
  • Ammonia Refrigeration experience.
  • 3 years’ experience in electrical and welding (Not Essential, can be discussed in place of)
  • Prior experience in a manufacturing / food manufacturing environment preferred,

 Competencies & Capabilities: 

  • Willingness to work off shifts, overtime, weekends and holidays as needed and in emergency situations
  • Mechanically inclined, have knowledge of machine shop tools and food safety regulations
  • Self-motivated, quick learner who likes solving problems and fixing things with a positive attitude
  • Ability to interpret schematic drawings of motor control circuit diagrams, PLC control programs, hardware relay logic diagrams and pneumatic loops
  • Knowledge of basic electrical, refrigeration, plumbing welding and fabrication and food processing equipment (Highly preferred) function and maintenance
  • Understanding of SOP's (Standard Operation Procedures) as they are written for the maintenance department and follow them
  • Must be capable of following written and verbal instructions in order to perform assigned maintenance tasks
  • Stellar verified knowledge of maintaining and operating industrial refrigeration systems “Certification”
  • Working from requests to repair and perform predictive and preventative maintenance procedures on ammonia and Freon refrigeration systems including, but not limited to compressors, pumps, fans, heat exchangers, glycol systems, various industrial utility systems, motors, and power distribution systems “Certification”
  • Handling or training of entry level refrigeration technicians including, but not limited to day-to-day operations, inspections and inspection techniques, basic repairs and repair techniques, and conformance to all state, local, and UDF regulations and policies
  • Participating in improvement activities that include improving the process, improving the work, and making recommendations for enhancing the systems by prioritizing work and minimizing down time to our HVAC and refrigeration systems.-
  • Other duties as assigned.

Work Environment / Physical requirements

  • Position will operate in manufacturing, office, refrigerated and frozen environments
  • Must be capable of walking on wet and uneven surfaces and climb stairs frequently and climb ladders occasionally.
  • Must be capable of standing and walking up to 50% of a workday
  • Must be capable of lifting up to twenty-five pounds occasionally
  • Must be capable of grasping objects with either full hand and manipulate small objects with fingers
  • Must be capable of speaking, reading, writing, and hearing English
  • Must be capable of donning a fully encapsulating chemical suit or entering confined spaces occasionally without experiencing claustrophobia
  • Must be capable of occasionally climbing to a height of ninety feet using a permanently installed series of ladders on the outside of a building
  • Must be capable of wearing a full-face respirator and achieving a gas tight seal

 


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About United Dairy Farmers

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

United Dairy Farmers (UDF) is a renowned name in the convenience store industry based in Cincinnati, Ohio, US. Founded in 1940, UDF spearheaded the concept of the “convenience store” by introducing an array of products beyond dairy staples. While the company's cornerstone product is its homemade ice cream, UDF also provides a variety of offerings like coffee, donuts, milk, and gasoline. Preserving family values at its core, UDF strives to provide friendly, personal service often missing from modern, impersonal businesses. The company’s mission is to make their every customer’s day a little easier and a lot nicer, asserting their forward-thinking vision while cherishing their well-rooted heritage.

Industry

Retail

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

Year founded

1940

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