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Refrigeration Helper Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Refrigeration Service Technician II

Abingdon, VA · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

JOB SUMMARY: The Refrigeration Technician II is responsible for the support of the retail ... Conceive and help develop procedures and strategies that can be adopted companywide for improved ...

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Refrigeration Helper information

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$18

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How much do refrigeration helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for refrigeration helper in Virginia is $18.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is refrigeration helper a hard job?

Refrigeration helper is a physically demanding job that involves lifting heavy equipment, working in confined spaces, and standing for long periods. It requires attention to safety protocols and basic knowledge of refrigeration systems, but it generally does not require advanced technical skills or certifications. The job can be challenging but is manageable with proper training and experience.

What is a refrigeration helper?

Refrigeration Helpers assist refrigeration technicians and mechanics with installing, repairing, and maintaining refrigeration systems such as coolers, freezers, and air conditioning units. Their duties often include handling tools, preparing materials, cleaning work areas, and performing basic maintenance tasks under supervision. This entry-level role requires a willingness to learn about refrigeration systems, good physical stamina, and the ability to follow safety procedures. Refrigeration Helpers play a key support role in ensuring that cooling systems operate efficiently and safely.

What are common challenges faced by a refrigeration helper during installations or repairs?

As a Refrigeration Helper, you may often work in confined or awkward spaces, sometimes in environments with extreme temperatures. Another challenge involves safely handling refrigerants and tools while following strict safety protocols. You'll also need to adapt quickly to the lead technician’s instructions and learn to troubleshoot basic issues on-the-job. Collaboration and communication are essential since you'll frequently assist experienced technicians and coordinate with other trades on-site.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a refrigeration helper?

To thrive as a Refrigeration Helper, you need basic knowledge of HVAC systems, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as safety protocols, is essential, and OSHA safety certifications can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication skills help in supporting technicians and ensuring efficient teamwork. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, supporting technicians, and ensuring smooth installation and repair processes in refrigeration operations.

What is the difference between Refrigeration Helper vs HVAC Assistant?

AspectRefrigeration HelperHVAC Assistant
CertificationsBasic technical training, OSHA safetyBasic technical training, OSHA safety
Work EnvironmentRefrigeration systems, cold storage facilitiesHeating, ventilation, air conditioning systems
Industry UsageCommercial and industrial refrigerationResidential and commercial HVAC
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with refrigeration system installation and maintenanceAssist with HVAC system installation and maintenance

Refrigeration Helper and HVAC Assistant roles share similar entry-level requirements and work environments, often overlapping in technical training and safety standards. The main difference lies in their focus: Refrigeration Helper specializes in refrigeration systems, while HVAC Assistant works with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Both roles support technicians and are essential in their respective industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Refrigeration jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Refrigeration jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Refrigeration Helper jobs in Virginia? For Refrigeration Helper jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refrigeration Helper jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Refrigeration Helper jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Refrigeration Helper jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Refrigeration Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Refrigeration Helper job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,531 per year, or $18 per hour.

Refrigeration Service Technician II

Food City

Abingdon, VA • On-site

$24 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Food City rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 659 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 122 rated grocery stores


Job description

JOB SUMMARY: The Refrigeration Technician II is responsible for the support of the retail operations through maintenance, installation, and repair of refrigeration, heating, and ventilation equipment. Responsible for processing and completing work orders, installing new refrigeration systems, troubleshooting mechanical failures, and performing equipment maintenance under the direction of the Divisional Refrigeration Manager.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Take ownership of the refrigeration systems and become a proactive partner of the stores/facilities in his/her assigned division.
  • Inspect, repair, modify, and install HVAC equipment including refrigeration and air conditioning compressors, receivers, condensers, chillers, water cooling towers, forced air converter units, pumps, automatic and hand valves, expansion valves, and capillary tubes.
  • Conduct periodic checks and perform preventive maintenance on refrigeration units, isolated heating and ventilating units, including boilers, gas, and electrically operated air conditioning equipment, and make necessary adjustments or repairs.
  • Diagnose and maintain all mechanical, electrical, and control aspects of the supermarket refrigeration systems through repair or replacement of defective parts in units and equipment and their controls, including thermostats, automatic switches, fan controls, log switches, damper motors, louvers, replays, filters, controls, belts, compressors, heat exchangers, high-limit controls, pressure controls, safety valves, and automatic gas valves.
  • Installation and removal of equipment as needed for remodel and upgrades.
  • Conceive and help develop procedures and strategies that can be adopted companywide for improved performance, reduced downtime, and cost reduction
  • Maintenance of all regulatory records necessary for government adherence and company policies.
  • Responsible for attending on-site work during scheduled shifts to adhere to company time and attendance policies
  • Ensure efficient and courteous customer service to store locations in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!"

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Minimum of 1 years' experience in refrigeration maintenance and completion of an accredited training program on the principals of refrigeration, or 3 years' experience in refrigeration maintenance.
  • Experience with single and parallel refrigeration compressor systems and the ability to troubleshoot and maintain these systems independently with moderate supervision.
  • Competence with electronic refrigeration control systems.
  • Valid refrigerant certification.
  • Valid U.S. driver's license.
  • U.S. citizen or valid work permit.
  • Must pass physical exam and drug screen.
  • Experience with Danfoss controllers.
  • Experience with secondary or chilled water systems.
  • Experience with Carlyle screw compressors.
  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and/or written instructions, perform routine and repetitive tasks and have constant contact/interaction with various levels of individuals daily
  • Ability to attend on-site work during scheduled shifts to adhere to company time and attendance policies.

Benefits of working for Food City:
401(k) with company match, Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Weekly Pay Checks with Direct Deposit, Company paid Life and Disability Insurance, Medical Plan with wellness benefits, Dental Plan, Paid Holidays, Paid Vacations, Associate Offers, and so much more!
About Food City:
Food City is a privately held, family-owned company with a driving mission to 'run the best store in town.' Dedicated to giving back to the communities we serve, we encourage our associates to get involved with their local civic organizations.
We consider our associates to be our greatest asset. Over 13% of the company is currently owned by our associates through our employee stock ownership plan, promoting tremendous pride in the services and products we provide.
Whether your passion is baking, accounting, or trucking, Food City has a promising career opportunity for you. We offer flexible schedules to ensure our associates have ample time to spend with family and friends. Many of our part-time associates are students still pursuing their education, who ultimately go on to work full-time for our company in various roles after graduation.
If you're looking for a great career or the opportunity to try something different, consider becoming part of the Food City family.

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