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Refrigeration Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator I

Madison, GA

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

DFR is part of the Refrigeration and Food Equipment segment of the Dover Corporation (NYSE: DOV ... Machine Operator I Location: Madison, GA What we're looking for: We are looking for a Machine ...

Machine Operator I

Madison, GA

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

DFR is part of the Refrigeration and Food Equipment segment of the Dover Corporation ® (NYSE: DOV ... Machine Operator I Location: Madison, GA What we're looking for: We are looking for a Machine ...

Machine Operator I

Madison, GA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

DFR is part of the Refrigeration and Food Equipment segment of the Dover Corporation ® (NYSE: DOV ... Machine Operator I Location: Madison, GA What we're looking for: We are looking for a Machine ...

Machine Operator I

Madison, GA

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

DFR is part of the Refrigeration and Food Equipment segment of the Dover Corporation (NYSE: DOV ... Machine Operator I Location: Madison, GA What we're looking for: We are looking for a Machine ...

Machine Operator

Erie, PA

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Would be operating CNC machines such as lathes and mills, etc. Would be reading and making parts ... defense, energy, HVAC & refrigeration, in-plant & industrial equipment, off-highway and ...

Machine Operator I

Madison, GA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

DFR is part of the Refrigeration and Food Equipment segment of the Dover Corporation ® (NYSE: DOV ... Machine Operator I Location: Madison, GA What we're looking for: We are looking for a Machine ...

Machine Operator I

Madison, GA

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

DFR is part of the Refrigeration and Food Equipment segment of the Dover Corporation ® (NYSE: DOV ... Machine Operator I Location: Madison, GA What we're looking for: We are looking for a Machine ...

Machine Operator II - Glass

Courtland, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

DFR is part of the Refrigeration and Food Equipment segment of the Dover Corporation ® (NYSE: DOV ... Machine Operator II - Glass Work Schedule: 1st shift Location: P2 - Richmond, VA What we're looking ...

Machine Operator II - Glass

Richmond, VA

$16.75 - $20/hr

DFR is part of the Refrigeration and Food Equipment segment of the Dover Corporation ® (NYSE: DOV ... Machine Operator II - Glass Work Schedule: 1st shift Location: P2 - Richmond, VA What we're looking ...

Machine Operator II - Glass

Courtland, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

DFR is part of the Refrigeration and Food Equipment segment of the Dover Corporation (NYSE: DOV ... Machine Operator II - Glass Work Schedule: 1st shift Location: P2 - Richmond, VA What we're looking ...

Quanex is seeking a dedicated Skilled Machine Operator to join our team in Wahpeton, North Dakota ... refrigeration and outdoor products markets. We are A Part of Something Bigger by improving the ...

Machine Operator I

South Chesterfield, VA

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

DFR is part of the Refrigeration and Food Equipment segment of the Dover Corporation ® (NYSE: DOV ... Machine Operator I Location: South Chesterfield, VA What we're looking for: We are looking for a ...

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... The Machine Operator will be responsible for working from shop drawing, procedures and/or other ...

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... The Machine Operator will be responsible for working from shop drawing, procedures and/or other ...

... refrigeration, electronics and many other industries. To us, metal is more than material. Wieland ... Operate CNC machines (mills, lathes, routers, etc.) to produce parts according to blueprints and ...

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Refrigeration Machine Operator information

See salary details

$15

$25

$31

How much do refrigeration machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 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 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.

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 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 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.

More about Refrigeration Machine Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Refrigeration Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 75% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,458 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

$50.05/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Port Authority Of New York And New Jersey rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

185th of 638 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

About the Role

As a Watch Engineer at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, you will play a crucial role in maintaining and overseeing the operation of our critical infrastructure systems. Watch Engineers act as the Port Authority’s leaders for the safe and efficient operation of utility systems and auxiliary equipment and further our mission to provide best-in-class services to our patrons. We are hiring for locations at various facilities located in New York and New Jersey.

Responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain heating and cooling systems for Port Authority facilities
  • Install, maintain, repair, and diagnose issues involving high/low-pressure heating and HVAC systems
  • Install, maintain, repair, and diagnose issues involving fire protection life safety systems
  • Various locations, rotating shifts and need to work 24/7, holidays, weekends, and potential of overtime

Minimum Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED from an accredited institution
  • Three years of full-time paid work experience in the HVAC/Utility Systems handling high pressure boilers, steam, and refrigeration equipment
  • Possess a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued Refrigerant Technician's Certificate (RTC)
  • Valid Driver’s License

Depending on the facility you are assigned to, one of the following licenses is required either at the time of appointment or within a specified amount of time upon employment:

  • High-Pressure Steam Boiler Operators License issued by New York City OR New Jersey Blue Seal Steam Boiler Operator’s License (Blue Seal - Class I, Grade C or above) issued by the State of New Jersey (at the time of hire) OR a facility that does not operate a high pressure plant may accept a New York City S12 City Wide Sprinkler Systems certificate or a New York City S13 City Wide Standpipe Systems certificate or a New Jersey Black Seal Boiler Operator’s License instead
  • New York City Refrigeration Machine Operator's License OR Blue Seal Refrigeration Machine Operator's License (Class II) issued by the State of New Jersey (at the time of hire)
  • Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with the Air Brakes endorsement or higher Applicants without a Class B CDL must obtain a Class B CDL Permit with endorsement before their first day of work and will be required to obtain a Class B CDL with endorsement within three months of employment.

Applicants should refer to the following websites for further information on obtaining a CDL and medical clearance for CDL Licensing:

  • New Jersey - http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/drivertopics/cdl.htm OR
  • New York - https://dmv.ny.gov/org/get-cdl

At the Port Authority of NY & NJ, our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace is unwavering. We recognize that not every candidate may meet every single desired qualification outlined in the position description. We also welcome applications from military veterans and their spouses and will review resumes for related experiences. If you are interested in this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with all qualifications, we still encourage you to apply.

Selection Process

Qualified candidates will be assessed via a written exam and a practical exam or interview. For this position, the following skills will be assessed:

Written exam:

  • High-Pressure and Low-Pressure Heating
  • Heating Systems
  • A/C and Refrigeration Systems
  • Auxiliary Equipment; Pumps and Controls
  • Fire Protection, Fire Safety and Sprinkler Systems
  • HVAC Electrical Systems

Practical exam:

  • Working at heights
  • Troubleshooting a rooftop furnace unit
  • Installation of heating zones
  • Installation of HVAC controls
  • Creating a steel pipe & copper loop
  • Demonstrate proficiency in central heating and refrigeration plant operation

Selected candidates who are made a conditional job offer will be asked to undergo a background check. Only applicants under consideration will be contacted.

Compensation & Benefits

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers an outstanding benefits package and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.

The starting salary for the Watch Engineer position is: $50.05 per hour. This salary is subject to the collective bargaining agreement for this position.

Click here for more information about benefits, our culture, and career development opportunities.

Employment Type: Full-Time Regular

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