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Refrigeration Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Refrigeration Consultant

Clayton, CA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Refrigeration Consultant Remote/home based position Perform preventive maintenance, troubleshooting ... Engineers can authorize purchases Create and maintain assessment reports to corporate regarding ...

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Ammonia Refrigeration Technician A growing commercial refrigeration construction/service company is ... engineering to completed construction.

Founded in 1977, C&L Refrigeration has established itself as a leader providing the highest quality maintenance, engineering and construction service in the commercial and industrial air conditioning ...

Refrigeration Technician

Fresno, CA · On-site

$24 - $35/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLETechnician for refrigeration department with ability to handle most of the needs ... Ability to read schematics or other engineering drawings.Intermediate ability to assess issues ...

Refrigeration Technician

Fresno, CA · On-site

$24 - $35/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLE Technician for refrigeration department with ability to handle most of the needs ... Ability to read schematics or other engineering drawings. * Intermediate ability to assess issues ...

Refrigeration Technician

Fresno, CA

$24.75 - $34/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLE Technician for refrigeration department with ability to handle most of the needs ... Ability to read schematics or other engineering drawings. * Intermediate ability to assess issues ...

Biomedical Refrigeration Specialist

Sonora, CA · On-site

$27.75 - $36.75/hr

As a Biomedical Refrigeration Specialist, you'll work on ultra-low temperature freezers, biomedical ... biomedical engineering standards. Uses specialized diagnostic tools (e.g., data loggers ...

Showing results 21-40

Refrigeration Engineer information

See California salary details

$42.4K

$86.5K

$123.4K

How much do refrigeration engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for refrigeration engineer in California is $86,539.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,600.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refrigeration engineer?

Refrigeration Engineers are professionals who design, install, maintain, and repair refrigeration systems used in a variety of settings, such as supermarkets, factories, cold storage facilities, and air conditioning units. They work with complex mechanical and electrical components to ensure that cooling systems operate efficiently and safely. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting faults, performing regular inspections, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Refrigeration Engineers play a crucial role in industries that require precise temperature control to preserve products and maintain safe environments.

What does a refrigeration engineer do?

A refrigeration engineer specializes in the design and installation of refrigeration systems. As a refrigeration engineer, your responsibilities include planning and managing the phases of installing complex refrigeration systems for restaurants, medical facilities, warehouses, trucks, and trailers. You must determine what cooling system is needed and how best to design and implement that system to meet your customer's needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refrigeration engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Refrigeration Engineer, you need a solid understanding of thermodynamics, HVAC systems, and mechanical engineering, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree or vocational qualification. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, refrigeration diagnostic equipment, and industry certifications like EPA Section 608 are highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with teams or clients. These skills ensure safe, efficient system design and maintenance, minimizing downtime and ensuring regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges refrigeration engineers face when working on-site, and how can they be managed?

Refrigeration Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex system malfunctions, working in confined or temperature-sensitive environments, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Effective communication with clients and team members is crucial for accurately diagnosing issues and implementing solutions. Staying up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and industry standards also helps in managing these challenges, ensuring both system efficiency and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Refrigeration Engineer vs HVAC Technician?

AspectRefrigeration EngineerHVAC Technician
CertificationsRefrigeration certifications, HVAC licensesHVAC licenses, refrigeration certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, commercial refrigeration systemsResidential and commercial HVAC systems
Industry UsageFood storage, cold storage, industrial refrigerationHeating, ventilation, air conditioning in buildings

Refrigeration Engineers focus on designing, installing, and maintaining refrigeration systems used in industrial and commercial settings, while HVAC Technicians primarily work on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in residential and commercial buildings. Both roles require similar certifications and often overlap in work environments, but their primary focus and applications differ.

Are refrigeration engineers in demand?

Refrigeration engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for maintenance, installation, and repair of cooling systems across various industries such as food service, healthcare, and manufacturing. The profession often requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of HVAC systems, and job growth is expected to be steady as these systems remain essential for operational efficiency.

How much do refrigeration engineers make?

Refrigeration engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled technicians with certifications like EPA or HVAC licenses may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or commercial settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Refrigeration Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Refrigeration Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Refrigeration Engineer jobs in California?

For Refrigeration Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refrigeration Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Refrigeration Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Refrigeration Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Refrigeration Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Refrigeration Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,539 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Raley's EMS Refrigeration Control Specialist - Expression of Interest

Bashas'

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$81K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Bashas' rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 124 rated grocery stores


Job description


Expression of Interest: We are always interested to hear from talented professionals who are looking for a new opportunity to join our team. Start your journey with Raley's by submitting your resume for future consideration.
Who We Are
The Raley's Companies is a private, family-owned, and purpose-driven retail company headquartered in West Sacramento, CA. Since our founding in 1935, our store operations have grown to include more than 235 locations across four states and four Tribal Nations under eight well-known banners: Raley's, Bel Air, Nob Hill Foods, Raley's O-N-E Market, Bashas', Food City, AJ's Fine Foods and Bashas' Diné Market. In addition, The Raley's Companies bridges the divide between the physical and digital retail experiences through the operation of Apium Logistics, Fieldera and FieldTRUE. Built on a higher purpose, the organization and our over 21,000 employees are committed to quality offerings, exceptional service and doing right by our team members, communities, and planet.
Position Purpose
The Refrigeration Control Specialist - EMS (Energy Management Systems) provides technical service and consultation for installation, programming, monitoring and maintenance of refrigeration, HVAC, and lighting control systems. Employees in this job classification provide support to the maintenance staff, project coordinators, outside contractors and engineers, governmental agencies and various equipment and computer manufacturers. This job classification requires strong knowledge of refrigeration and associated computer programming skills, electronics, regulatory and other building requirements, and the ability to provide technical and consulting services to others.
Perks & Benefits
  • Competitive compensation, paid weekly
  • Eligible for annual incentive bonus
  • Retirement Savings Plan - 401(k) including company contributions and matching funds
  • Tuition Reimbursement for qualified courses
  • Scholarship opportunities for continued education
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance for yourself and eligible dependents
  • Paid time off
  • Family leave and time off
  • Life insurance
  • Wellness Programs (Raley's Healthy Lifestyles)
  • Flexible Spending Account (pre-tax - commuter, childcare, and medical expenses)
  • Health Savings Account
  • Corporate store and discount programs (10% off groceries, free items)
  • Discounts to amusement parks, gym memberships, mobile phone plans, etc.
  • Employee Assistance Program (free financial, legal, and mental health services)
  • Charitable contribution opportunity and volunteer time off and community events

Responsibilities
  • Performs advanced technical diagnostics, consultation and services related to the implementation and maintenance of refrigeration, HVAC, and lighting control systems.
  • Troubleshoots refrigeration computer components for possible manufacturer or installation problems.
  • Programs and monitors refrigeration, HVAC, and lighting computer control system(s) to include setting alarm parameters, maintaining efficient levels of operation, and maintaining the lighting and air conditioning loads to achieve economical, safe, and comfortable operation in compliance with governmental regulations.
  • Adjusts control systems when refrigeration is added or moved in stores and when lighting or HVAC cadence needs to be changed.
  • Develops testing procedures and verifies system operating efficiencies prior to and during installation.
  • Coordinates the upgrade of existing computer equipment to achieve and maintain reliability of the system(s); partners with I.T. when performing system overlay projects.
  • Assists in the design of advanced refrigeration systems which meet evolving governmental regulations and aggressive energy and sustainability goals; interacts with staff and outside vendors to develop project details.
  • Reviews, tests, consults on, and oversees the installation of refrigeration, HVAC, and lighting computer systems for retrofit, remodel and new store construction.
  • Defines, researches, and develops refrigeration, HVAC, and lighting parameters for new and remodeled stores.
  • Gives technical information and guidance to installation crews.
  • Interprets mechanical and construction diagrams for various portions of the refrigeration, HVAC and lighting system(s) and related components.
  • Provides information to update construction plans with more detailed information.
  • Provides on-the-job training to Refrigeration Technicians through teaching classes on CPC controllers, demonstrating simple troubleshooting processes and by describing parameters.

Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D.; some college or technical education preferred.
  • Completion of apprentice refrigeration training normally acquired in four years.
  • Experience in a journeyman refrigeration position normally acquired within five years.
  • Experience and training in the use and programming of refrigeration control programs to include, but not limited to, Emerson CPC E2, Altech, Comtrol, and Danfoss.
  • Or the equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Required Knowledge
  • Intermediate to advanced knowledge of computer system hardware and electrical wiring.
  • Knowledge of local, state, and federal guidelines and regulations relating to electrical, refrigeration, HVAC, and lighting.

Skills/Abilities
  • Ability to program, service, and troubleshoot various manufacturers' VFDs and Softstarts, including but not limited to Toshiba, Cutler Hammer, Siemens, Allen Bradley, and Fincor.
  • Ability to troubleshoot circuit boards and replace computer chips.
  • Ability to operate a computer and associated software programs to include word processing and spreadsheet applications.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Demonstrated ability in attention to detail.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects and meet timelines.
  • Customer service, prioritization, and organizational skills.

Certifications Required
  • Universal refrigerant HFC Certification

Note For Current Raley's Employees:
  1. You must apply through the internal portal
  2. No disciplinary action during the past 6 months
  3. Your current leader must recommend that you apply for this position and provide an endorsement

Compensation: The range displayed reflects the range the company reasonably expects to pay for the position. The actual compensation offered to the selected individual(s) will depend on their relevant education, training, or experience, among other bona fide factors.

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