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Refrigeration Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Component design/evaluation for custom projects * Alternative vendor selection/evaluation for ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Refrigeration Engineering * 0-7+ years of relevant experience ...

Refrigeration Engineer

North Prairie, WI · On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

Component design/evaluation for custom projects * Alternative vendor selection/evaluation for ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Refrigeration Engineering * 0-7+ years of relevant experience ...

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Refrigeration Design Engineer information

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$43K

$87.7K

$125K

How much do refrigeration design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for refrigeration design engineer in the United States is $87,687.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Refrigeration Design Engineer do?

A Refrigeration Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing refrigeration systems and components used in various applications, such as commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and transportation. They create detailed schematics and layouts, select appropriate materials and equipment, and ensure the systems meet industry standards for safety and efficiency. These engineers often work closely with clients and other engineers to customize solutions that fit specific needs, and they may also be involved in troubleshooting and improving existing refrigeration systems.

What is the difference between Refrigeration Design Engineer vs HVAC Design Engineer?

AspectRefrigeration Design EngineerHVAC Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, certifications like ASHRAEBachelor's in Mechanical or Civil Engineering, certifications like ASHRAE
Work EnvironmentDesigning refrigeration systems for commercial, industrial, and cold storage facilitiesDesigning heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for buildings
Industry UsageFood processing, cold storage, HVACR industryConstruction, building services, commercial and residential buildings

Refrigeration Design Engineers focus on creating systems for cooling and cold storage, often working in industrial and commercial sectors. HVAC Design Engineers primarily design heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for buildings. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, their applications differ significantly, catering to different industry needs.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Refrigeration Design Engineer, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Refrigeration Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing energy efficiency with cost constraints, ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations, and integrating new technologies into existing systems. Addressing these challenges requires staying updated on industry standards, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like manufacturing and maintenance, and engaging in continuous professional development. Open communication with clients and stakeholders also helps in aligning design specifications with practical requirements and sustainability goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Refrigeration Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Refrigeration Design Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering, thermodynamics, and HVAC principles, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, refrigeration cycle modeling tools, and relevant industry codes such as ASHRAE standards is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with clients and multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and innovative refrigeration solutions that meet technical and regulatory requirements.
More about Refrigeration Design Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Refrigeration Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Refrigeration Design Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Refrigeration Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Refrigeration Design Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Refrigeration Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,687 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Senior Refrigeration Engineer

Emanuelson - Podas Inc

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description:

POSITION SUMMARY

The Senior Refrigeration Engineer leads the design and execution of refrigeration systems while supporting project teams and clients through clear priorities, strong organization, and decisive technical leadership. This role acts as a technical leader and trusted advisor, taking full ownership of refrigeration design efforts across multiple projects and ensuring work is delivered with quality, consistency, and urgency.

This role requires deep expertise in refrigeration systems, the ability to make informed decisions under pressure, and strong coordination with internal teams and external partners. Key responsibilities include system design, quality oversight, client collaboration, mentoring staff, and contributing to the growth of EP’s refrigeration practice.

OVERVIEW OF RESPONSIBILITIES

REFRIGERATION DESIGN AND ENGINEERING

  • Lead the design and development of commercial and industrial refrigeration systems.
  • Perform system selection, load calculations, equipment sizing, and energy analysis.
  • Develop accurate, code-compliant, and coordinated construction documents.
  • Apply current codes, standards, and best practices to all design work.
  • Conduct facility assessments, site verifications, and existing system evaluations.

PROJECT EXECUTION AND QUALITY OVERSIGHT

  • Take ownership of refrigeration scope from initial concept through construction completion.
  • Manage multiple projects and priorities with overlapping schedules.
  • Perform quality assurance reviews to ensure accuracy, consistency, and completeness.
  • Review shop drawings, respond to RFIs, and support construction administration.
  • Ensure designs align with EP standards and client expectations.

TEAM LEADERSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT

  • Set clear expectations and direction for Designers and Engineers, ensuring accountability for quality, coordination, and deadlines.
  • Lead refrigeration efforts across projects, establishing standards and maintaining consistency in design approach and documentation.
  • Mentor and develop staff while reinforcing disciplined work habits and strong engineering fundamentals.

CLIENT RELATIONSHIP AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and industry partners.
  • Support clients in making informed refrigeration system decisions.
  • Lead EP’s refrigeration efforts with key national clients.
  • Identify opportunities to expand services and strengthen client partnerships.
  • Attend key conferences to broaden EP’s client relationships.

PROCESS IMPROVEMENT AND TECHNICAL GROWTH

  • Contribute to improving specifications, standards, and internal processes.
  • Advance EP’s refrigeration capabilities through continuous learning and innovation.
  • Share knowledge and best practices across the organization.

PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY

  • Take ownership of work and maintain a high level of accountability.
  • Communicate clearly and professionally with internal teams and external partners.
  • Manage time and priorities effectively while maintaining responsiveness and urgency.
  • Balance work responsibilities with personal well-being.

KEY COMPETENCIES

  • Highly organized and disciplined, with the ability to bring structure and clarity to complex, fast-moving projects.
  • Self-directed and proactive, consistently taking ownership without the need for close oversight.
  • Comfortable making decisions quickly and adjusting course as needed to maintain progress.
  • Communicate clearly and effectively, translating complex technical concepts into practical guidance for both technical staff and non-technical clients.
  • Provide timely, direct, and constructive feedback to develop staff, reinforcing strong technical fundamentals and disciplined work habit.
Requirements:
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) required.
  • Minimum 5+ years of experience in refrigeration system design.
  • Authorization to work in the US. No visa sponsorship available.

SUCCESS METRICS

  • Projects are organized, prioritized, and progressing on schedule, with clear direction and minimal confusion for the team.
  • Refrigeration designs are technically sound, well-coordinated, and delivered with minimal rework.
  • Team members are supported, developed, and contributing effectively.
  • Client relationships are strong and lead to repeat work and expanded opportunities.
  • Continuous improvement in refrigeration standards, processes, and capabilities.