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Refrigeration Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TerraTherm, Inc.

Boiler Operator

Newport, RI

Any refrigeration machinery * Steam or hot water boilers * Diesel generator * Air conditioning machinery * Hydraulics system * Gas generator * Steam turbine * A boiler operator or stationary engineer ...

Standex International

Machine Operator

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... refrigeration. We work with our customers to advance progress through innovation. From inventing ... The Machine Operator may be involved in many aspects of the production process, including: assembly ...

Standex International

Machine Operator

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... refrigeration. We work with our customers to advance progress through innovation. From inventing ... The Machine Operator may be involved in many aspects of the production process, including: assembly ...

Standex International

Machine Operator

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... refrigeration. We work with our customers to advance progress through innovation. From inventing ... The Machine Operator may be involved in many aspects of the production process, including: assembly ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Duncansville, PA

$19.44 - $25.79/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... The Machine Operator will be responsible for . This role is located in Duncansville, PA and will be ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Duncansville, PA

$24.28 - $25.79/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... The Machine Operator will be responsible for . This role is located in Duncansville, PA and will be ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Duncansville, PA

$24.28 - $25.79/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine Operator will be responsible for operating ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Duncansville, PA

$19.44 - $25.79/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine Operator will be responsible for operating ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Duncansville, PA · On-site

$24.28 - $25.79/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine Operator will be responsible for operating ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Duncansville, PA · On-site

$24.28 - $25.79/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... The Machine Operator will be responsible for . This role is located in Duncansville, PA and will be ...

WIELAND

Machine Operator

Duncansville, PA

$20.61/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine Operator will be responsible for operating ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Pine Hall, NC

$18 - $20/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine operator is to perform various semi-skilled ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Pine Hall, NC

$18 - $20/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine operator is to perform various semi-skilled ...

WIELAND

Machine Operator

Pine Hall, NC

$20/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine operator is to perform various semi-skilled ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Pine Hall, NC

$18.36 - $20.40/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine operator is to perform various semi-skilled ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Pine Hall, NC

$18.36 - $20.40/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine operator is to perform various semi-skilled ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Pine Hall, NC · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine operator is to perform various semi-skilled ...

Wieland

Machine Operator

Pine Hall, NC · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Wieland is hiring a Machine Operator. The Machine operator is to perform various semi-skilled ...

Standex International

Machine Operator

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... refrigeration. We work with our customers to advance progress through innovation. From inventing ... The Machine Operator may be involved in many aspects of the production process, including: assembly ...

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All JobsRefrigeration Machine Operator Jobs

Refrigeration Machine Operator information

See salary details

$15

$25

$31

How much do refrigeration machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for refrigeration machine operator in the United States is $25.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Refrigeration Machine Operators, and how can they be managed?

Refrigeration Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent system performance, troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, and responding quickly to alarms or system failures. Managing these challenges typically involves adhering to a strict preventive maintenance schedule, staying updated on equipment manuals and safety protocols, and working closely with maintenance and engineering teams. Strong communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for minimizing downtime and ensuring the safe, efficient operation of refrigeration systems.

What is the difference between Refrigeration Machine Operator vs HVAC Technician?

AspectRefrigeration Machine OperatorHVAC Technician
CredentialsTypically requires refrigeration certifications and on-the-job trainingRequires HVAC certifications, including EPA 608
Work EnvironmentFactories, cold storage, food processing plantsResidential, commercial, and industrial buildings
Industry UsageFood, beverage, cold storage industriesHeating, ventilation, air conditioning services

Refrigeration Machine Operators focus on maintaining and operating refrigeration systems primarily in industrial settings, while HVAC Technicians handle a broader range of heating and cooling systems in various environments. Both roles require specialized certifications and are essential in their respective industries, but they differ in scope and work environment.

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

To thrive as a Refrigeration Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of refrigeration principles, and often a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with control systems, refrigerant handling tools, and certifications such as EPA Section 608 are typically expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators excel in preventing equipment failures and ensuring safety. These competencies are vital for maintaining efficient refrigeration systems, minimizing downtime, and adhering to safety and environmental regulations.

Is refrigeration a good career?

Refrigeration machine operators play a key role in maintaining and repairing refrigeration systems in various industries, often requiring technical skills and certifications. The job offers steady employment opportunities, especially in sectors like food service, manufacturing, and HVAC, with a typical work environment involving physical tasks and adherence to safety standards.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

Refrigeration machine operators with specialized skills, such as those working in industrial or manufacturing settings, tend to earn higher salaries, especially if they hold certifications or operate complex, high-demand equipment. Generally, roles in large facilities or with additional technical responsibilities offer the highest pay within the machine operator field.

What are Refrigeration Machine Operators?

Refrigeration Machine Operators are skilled technicians responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining industrial refrigeration systems. They ensure that cooling equipment such as compressors, condensers, and evaporators function efficiently and safely. Their duties often include routine inspections, troubleshooting, performing minor repairs, and following safety protocols to prevent equipment failure or hazards. These operators are crucial in industries like food processing, cold storage, and manufacturing, where temperature control is essential.

What are the duties of a refrigeration operator?

A refrigeration machine operator is responsible for monitoring and maintaining refrigeration systems, ensuring they operate efficiently and safely. This includes inspecting equipment, troubleshooting issues, performing repairs, and maintaining records. Operators often use tools like gauges and control systems and may need certifications in refrigeration technology.
More about Refrigeration Machine Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Refrigeration Machine Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Refrigeration Machine Operator jobs are:
Refrigeration Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refrigeration Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,458 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Commercial Refrigeration Technician

INTERACTION 24 LLC

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$35 - $42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Dental insurance

Job Title: Commercial Refrigeration Technician - Day shift!
Location: Brooklyn NY
About the Company
Join a fast-growing, well-funded nationwide meal delivery company that is transforming the way people eat. With 20+ facilities across the United States and $250M in recent funding, this company is scaling fast and building the team that will take them there. Their Brooklyn facility is a high-volume commercial kitchen operation producing chef-made, ready-to-eat meals at scale. This is a company with real momentum, a strong maintenance culture, and a genuine path to becoming a direct employee. This role is contract-to-hire — perform well and you convert directly onto their team.
Overview
We're seeking an experienced Commercial Refrigeration Technician to join the facilities/maintenance team at our Brooklyn facility. This role is core to keeping commercial refrigeration systems running reliably across a high-volume, fast-paced kitchen operation. You'll be joining a collaborative, cross-trained team that takes pride in their work and keeps a world-class food production operation running at peak performance.
Schedule
Day shift, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Tuesday–Saturday. 
Responsibilities
  • Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain commercial refrigeration equipment including rooftop units (RTUs), chillers, condensers, evaporators, and walk-in refrigeration boxes
  • Diagnose and repair issues with compressors, motors, belts, and pulleys
  • Respond to refrigeration breakdowns quickly to minimize downtime in a fast-paced kitchen environment
  • Maintain accurate records of service, parts usage, and equipment status
  • Adhere to all safety protocols and regulations while on site
  • Partner with the broader facilities/maintenance team on cross-functional repairs as needed — a plus, not required
Requirements
  • EPA Universal certification required
  • Proven hands-on experience repairing commercial refrigeration systems — 3+ years
  • Strong troubleshooting ability across compressors, motors, electrical/mechanical components
  • Ability to read technical manuals, schematics, and diagrams
  • Prior experience in a food production, commercial kitchen, or industrial/manufacturing environment strongly preferred
  • Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in a physically demanding environment
  • Team-oriented, proactive, responsive — strong culture fit
  • Reliable commute to Brooklyn, NY
Nice to Have
  • Interest/aptitude in learning conveyor systems and general kitchen equipment/appliance repair
  • RMO License (Refrigeration Machine Operator) or in progress