First Class Refrigeration Operator Jobs in California

Do you enjoy working hands-on, troubleshooting systems, and keeping critical systems running? Join us as a Refrigeration Mechanic (Ammonia Operator) at our San Jose, CA plant. This is a night shift (6PM-6:30 AM) position, following an alternative work schedule, and you must be flexible with overtime as needed. The pay range for this position is $40.16 - $50.54 per hour. This role operates within a pay-for-skills progression model, where responsibilities and system ownership expand based on demonstrated capability, certifications, and business needs.

You’ll work alongside a skilled and driven team to maintain and operate both production equipment and industrial refrigeration systems that are critical to our operation. This role offers the opportunity to expand your technical capabilities across mechanical systems while continuing to build specialized expertise in ammonia refrigeration.

A Taste of What You’ll Be Doing

 

• Preventative Maintenance & System Reliability – Perform inspections, troubleshooting, repairs, and preventative maintenance on primarily facility systems and ammonia refrigeration systems to ensure safe and reliable operations.
• Refrigeration System Operation – Support the operation and monitoring of ammonia refrigeration systems, including completing system rounds, documenting readings, and responding to system conditions.
• Troubleshooting & Repairs – Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and refrigeration-related issues, replacing components such as motors, pumps, valves, compressors, and other system parts.
• Responding to Breakdowns – Quickly respond to equipment and system issues, including refrigeration and utility systems, to minimize downtime and support production needs.
• Following Best Practices – Understand, follow, and enforce all safety, PSM, food safety, and company policies, procedures, and recognized practices.
• Driving Continuous Improvement – Identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability, system performance, and maintenance processes, and take action to close gaps.

 

We’re Looking for Someone With

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ammonia Operator Level 2 or 3 certification, or equivalent progression within a refrigeration system AND experience working with ammonia refrigeration systems in a PSM-regulated environment.
• Working knowledge of mechanical systems, with exposure to troubleshooting and repairs.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and diagrams.
• Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, lift up to 50 lbs, and perform repetitive physical tasks throughout the day.

What’s Next

After you apply, your application will be reviewed by a real recruiter, so it may take us a few weeks to get back with you by email or phone. If you join our team, you’ll be rewarded for the difference you make. Our comprehensive benefits offer you the support you need through your life events, big or small. All applicants must have permanent legal authorization to work in the United States. Kellanova does not sponsor employment visas for this role.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death & dismemberment insurance, employee assistance program, short-term disability coverage, and long-term disability insurance. Also, voluntary income protection benefits such as supplemental life, accident as well as a 401(k) plan with company contributions is available. Part-time employees may have access to benefits on a pro-rated basis. See KellanovaTotalHealth.com for more information.

Need assistance throughout the application or hiring process? Email USA.Recruitment@kellanova.com.

Get to Know Us

We’ve always been driven to unleash the full potential of our differentiated brands and our passionate people. Our iconic, world-class brands at Kellanova include Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts, MorningStar Farms, Special K, Krave, Zucaritas, Tresor, Crunchy Nut, among others.

Mars, Incorporated has acquired Kellanova in a transaction that brings together iconic brands, storied legacies and outstanding capabilities with a view to shape the future of snacking. You can learn more here, and our hiring teams will be happy to discuss further questions if your application advances in the hiring process.

Let’s shape the future of snacking.

Kellanova is an Equal Opportunity Employer that strives to provide an inclusive work environment, a seat for everyone at the table, and embraces the diverse talent of its people. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding our efforts to advance Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, please visit our website here.