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First Class Refrigeration Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position is a swing shift role, so the position will rotate between first, second, and third ... Maintains current permit to operate with the City of Milwaukee Maintains current 2nd Class ...

This position is a swing shift role, so the position will rotate between first, second, and third ... Maintains current 2nd Class licensing, with the National Institute of The Uniform Licensing of ...

This position is a swing shift role, so the position will rotate between first, second, and third ... Maintains current 2nd Class licensing, with the National Institute of The Uniform Licensing of ...

This position is a swing shift role, so the position will rotate between first, second, and third ... Maintains current 2nd Class licensing, with the National Institute of The Uniform Licensing of ...

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First Class Refrigeration Operator information

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$15

$25

$31

How much do first class refrigeration operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for first class 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.

What is the difference between First Class Refrigeration Operator vs Refrigeration Technician?

AspectFirst Class Refrigeration OperatorRefrigeration Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a First Class Refrigeration Operator license or certificationOften requires a Refrigeration Technician certification or license
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, commercial refrigeration systems, often in large facilities or plantsMaintenance and repair of refrigeration systems across various settings
Employer & IndustryUsed in industries like food processing, cold storage, and manufacturingEmployed in HVAC/R service companies, industrial facilities, and maintenance

While both roles involve refrigeration systems, a First Class Refrigeration Operator primarily focuses on operating and monitoring large-scale refrigeration equipment, often requiring specific licensing. Refrigeration Technicians tend to perform repairs and maintenance across a broader range of systems. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but their primary responsibilities differ.

More about First Class Refrigeration Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for First Class Refrigeration Operator jobs? Cities with the most First Class Refrigeration Operator job openings:
What states have the most First Class Refrigeration Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for First Class Refrigeration Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching First Class Refrigeration Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Class Refrigeration Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various First Class Refrigeration Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,458 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Refrigerator Equipment Operator 1st Class (Demolition Department)

Refrigerator Equipment Operator 1st Class (Demolition Department)

City of Detroit

Detroit, MI

$54K - $58K/yr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


City Of Detroit rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

510th of 643 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION DEPARTMENT Refrigerator Equipment Operator 1st Class Under general supervision, responsible for operating and maintaining refrigeration and air-conditioning systems, including auxiliary equipment requiring possession of a Refrigeration Operator License. Examples of Duties Operates and adjusts refrigeration equipment. Balances, adjusts, and sets controls including but not limited to, expansion valves; hydrostatic and electric regulators, and various switches to maintain humidity and temperature levels.

Operates and maintains a refrigeration compressor room, including, but not limited to, condensing, chilled water pumping, and circulatory apparatus. Operates and maintains air washing, mixing, and conditioning units. Performs inspections to check operating performance of equipment.

Maintains required readings of refrigerant, including but not limited to, other pressures, dry and wet bulb temperatures, humidity and other readings in activity log records. Inspects and lubricates bearings and housing. Changes parts on motors, fans, compressors, pumps, and other equipment.

Checks and replaces worn belts on belt-driven equipment. Assists in making major repairs and overhauls to refrigeration and air-conditioning units. Minimum Qualifications Completion of High School Diploma or G.E.D

Two years of experience in the operation and maintenance of refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment and their auxiliaries requiring possession of a license indicated by the title of the class. Licenses, Certifications, and Other Special Requirements: Valid First Class Refrigeration Operator's License or Greater. Valid State of Michigan Operator License required.

Equivalency Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis. Supplemental Information Evaluation Plan Interview: 70% Evaluation of Training, Experience & Personal Qualifications: 30% Total of Interview and Evaluation T.E.P: 100% Additional points may be awarded for: Veteran Points: 0 - 15 points Detroit Residency Credit: 15 points LRD: 8/14/2024 Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of operating details and characteristics of a variety of types of refrigeration and air-conditioning, ice making, water cooling, and other similar equipment and systems. Knowledge of applicable safety codes, regulations, and ordinances

Skill in working with the tools and materials commonly employed in the operation and maintenance of such equipment. Skill in physical strength and manual dexterity. Ability to maintain operation and maintenance activity logs.

Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot operating conditions. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to read and understand wiring diagrams, operating and repair instructions, and manuals Physical Demands The employee generally remains in a stationary position for an extended period of time operating standard office equipment which may include computers, telephones, photocopiers, and fax machines.

The employee is expected to move about to accomplish tasks such as opening file cabinets and moving files. Must be able to lift, push, pull, and carry up to (25) pounds. Work Environment Work is performed primarily in an office environment.

Some work requires travel to meetings, conferences, and other work sites with exposure to seasonal weather conditions Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position. The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to the class. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.

Specific job duties may vary from position to position. The City of Detroit is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No applicant for employment shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other criteria prohibited by City, State, or Federal law.


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