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First Class Refrigeration Operator Jobs in Illinois

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First Class Refrigeration Operator information

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.

How to start a career in First Class Refrigeration Operator?

To start a career as a First Class Refrigeration Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a refrigeration apprenticeship or technical training program. Obtaining relevant certifications, such as a refrigeration license or certification from a recognized authority, is often required, along with gaining practical experience in refrigeration systems and safety procedures.

Is a First Class Refrigeration Operator job a hard job?

A First Class Refrigeration Operator job involves managing and maintaining refrigeration systems, which requires technical knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to work in potentially challenging environments. The job can be physically demanding and may involve shift work, but it is generally considered manageable with proper training and experience.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for First Class Refrigeration Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most First Class Refrigeration Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various First Class Refrigeration Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

Refrigeration Tech - Up to $7.5k Sign-On Bonus

Sysco

Crystal Lake, IL • On-site

$34/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Perform inspections and preventive maintenance of refrigeration storage equipment, including checking, draining, filling oil levels, and replacing belts.

  • Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain refrigeration, electrical, and HVAC systems, including compressors, condensers, fans, and control systems.

  • Document maintenance activities, monitor system operation, and communicate system status to management and maintenance teams.


Sysco rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 326 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

119th of 366 rated logistics


Job description

Sysco is Now Hiring Refrigeration Techs Lvl. II in Des Plaines, IL! Earn $34.00 per Hour* Plus an Annual Boot & Tool Allowance Outstanding Benefits - Up To $7,500 Sign-On Bonus*

We offer our colleagues the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, to contribute to the success of a dynamic organization, and serve others in a manner that exceeds their expectations. We’re looking for talented, hard-working individuals to join our team. Come grow with us and let us show you why Sysco is at the heart of food and service.


Benefits:
  • Earn $34.00 per Hour*
  • up to $7,500 sign-on bonus*
  • Annual boot & tool allowance
  • Outstanding benefits
  • Excellent full time career with a stable and growing company
  • Move your career FORWARD with SYSCO FOODS!

(*Depending on experience)


Shift:
  • 1st, 2nd shift and 3rd shift available
  • 2nd shift: 40+ hours, Monday - Friday 2:30 PM - 11:00 PM
  • $2.00 per hour shift differential for 2nd shift


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Responsibilities:
  • Perform required inspections and preventive maintenance of refrigeration storage equipment ranging from 50 HP to 3,000 HP
  • Use working knowledge of screw and reciprocal compressors, electrical troubleshooting all common types of ammonia central systems, & control/alarm systems to perform inspections and preventative maintenance as required
  • Knowledge of controls and electric (high and low voltage)
  • Knowledge of PC (personal computer) & PLC (programming logic controller) based master refrigeration control systems
  • Maintains the freezer and cooler ammonia system through scheduled preventative maintenance activities includes the areas listed below to ensure the full functioning of all refrigeration units
  • Checking, draining and filling oil levels as needed
  • Oil analysis
  • Filter changes
  • Checking, adjusting, or replacing all belts as needed
  • Checking for ammonia leaks on the roof above freezers or around the units themselves
  • Checking compressors and cycle operation of each
  • Checking condensers and cycle operations of each unit
  • Responsible for logging time and materials into the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) on a daily basis in the form of work orders, P.M.s, etc.
  • Checking, changing or filling water treatment chemical levels
  • Oversee and manage Refrigeration, Electrical, and HVAC systems including monitoring and trending, troubleshooting and repairs (Compressors, condensers, fans, heating, cooling, contactors, motors, microprocessors, frequency drives, etc.), leak detection, conducting required inspections and reporting, glycol underfloor warming system knowledge, evaluating and implementing energy management strategies,
  • Ensure product integrity is maintained through temperature monitoring & control
  • Evaluating and reporting equipment condition
  • Completes small electrical repairs and welding projects as needed, to reduce contract or purchase of needed services
  • Responsible for daily communication of all pertinent information regarding system operation and maintenance to departmental management and maintenance teams
  • Responsible for housekeeping and cleanup of refrigeration machine rooms, refrigeration maintenance areas, and all project areas on a daily basis
  • Required to interpret and understand plans and specifications, schematics, operating and maintenance manuals, etc. for systems being overseen
  • Conducts audits ensuring all required inspections and documentation are completed accurately (including but not limited to food safety documentation, ePSM, PSM, etc.)
  • Checking condition of the freezer and cooler curtains
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot problems with HVAC equipment.
  • Repair or replace defective equipment, components, or wiring in HVAC equipment's
  • Carry out preventative maintenance tasks and inspections on HVAC equipment
  • Suggests efficiency ideas, cost reduction measures and assists with the implementation of changes within the facility maintenance department
  • Works require exposure to extreme cold and heat and working around ammonia, noise, dirt, dust, paint, grease and high voltage wires
  • Performs all other duties as assigned, including non-refrigeration tasks like facility, light carpentry, painting, light plumbing, changing of light bulbs, and repair of minor electrical devices, fleet, MHE, grounds maintenance
  • Demonstrate an understanding and adherence to all work safety policies, procedures, and governing requirements
  • Participate in departmental on-call program, as designated
  • Utilize computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) on a daily basis to order necessary parts, devices, etc. to properly repair or complete assigned work orders, following department procedures
  • Maintain all tools and equipment in clean, safe, working order
  • Maintain adequate inventory of related parts to perform assigned duties
  • Maintain technical skills and required certifications to perform job duties
  • Adhere to all safety requirements and wear the proper Personal Protective Equipment required by the job
  • Respond to emergency situations to ensure employee and facility safety
  • Champion overall safety in the department
  • Comply with OSHA, and other local, state and federal regulations
  • Cooperate and collaborate with the Organization's leadership to champion and meet the strategic goals of the Organization's system
  • Adhere to Organization and the Facilities Department policies and procedures including appropriate attire, grooming, and attendance
  • Serve on departmental and/or organizational committees or focus groups as requested and needed
  • Interact effectively, build relationships, and demonstrate a high level of cooperation


Qualifications:
  • Education:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • HVAC / R tech school preferred
  • Experience:
  • Four years of industrial HVAC / R experience; or equivalent combination of education and related experience
  • Preferred experience with anhydrous ammonia (R717)
  • Certifications, Licenses, and Registrations:
  • Must possess a valid state Driver's License and provide proof of liability coverage meeting company standards
  • Complete a Sysco approved defensive driving program.
  • Obtain a Powered Industrial Equipment Certification from Sysco within 3 months
  • HAZWOPER 24 hrs. Training required/Respirator Fit Test/Physical
  • Universal EPA certification
  • RETA Certified Assistant Refrigeration Operator (CARO) certification
  • Obtain RETA Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator (CIRO) certification within 6 months of employment.
  • This is a prerequisite to advance to Refrigeration Operator III / Service Tech (Master)
Sysco is an Equal Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.*The pay range provided is not indicative of Sysco’s actual pay range but is merely algorithmic and provided for generalized comparison. Factors that may be used to determine the rate of pay include specific skills, work location, work experience, and other individualized factors

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