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Refrigeration Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Sysco

Refrigeration Technician II

Memphis, TN

$36.15/hr

The ideal candidate will have HVAC/R schooling, RETA Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator (CIRO) certification, universal EPA, and at least four years' experience with service/maintenance of ...

Sysco Corporation

Refrigeration Technician II

Memphis, TN · On-site

$32 - $36.15/hr

The ideal candidate will have HVAC/R schooling, RETA Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator (CIRO) certification, universal EPA, and at least four years' experience with service/maintenance of ...

Sysco

Refrigeration Tech II

Memphis, TN · On-site

$32 - $36.15/hr

The ideal candidate will have HVAC/R schooling, RETA Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator (CIRO) certification, universal EPA, and at least four years' experience with service/maintenance of ...

Sysco

Facility Technician II

Memphis, TN · On-site

$26/hr

Responsible for daily refrigeration operator duties including ePSM inspections and logs. * Participate in departmental on-call program, as designated. * Maintain all tools and equipment in a clean ...

The Pictsweet Company

Refrigeration Engineer

Bells, TN · On-site

Family owned and operated for over 80 years, Pictsweet is a frozen vegetable producer with agricultural roots. We are looking for a Refrigeration Engineer who will exercise oversight of industrial ...

The Pictsweet Company

Refrigeration Engineer

Bells, TN · On-site

Family owned and operated for over 80 years, Pictsweet is a frozen vegetable producer with agricultural roots. We are looking for a Refrigeration Engineer who will exercise oversight of industrial ...

RICH PRODUCTS

Refrigeration Tech 3rd Shift

Arlington, TN · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Ensures that all Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) are followed and the highest standards for ... Ability to use a multimeter and refrigeration gauges. Familiarity with PSM programs, preferred.

Food City

Refrigeration Service Technician II

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

Conduct periodic checks and perform preventive maintenance on refrigeration units, isolated heating and ventilating units, including boilers, gas, and electrically operated air conditioning equipment ...

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All JobsRefrigeration Operator JobsRefrigeration Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Refrigeration Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$13

$23

$28

How much do refrigeration operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for refrigeration operator in Tennessee is $23.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Refrigeration Operator vs HVAC Technician?

AspectRefrigeration OperatorHVAC Technician
CertificationsRefrigeration certification, safety trainingHVAC certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial refrigeration, cold storage, food processingHeating, ventilation, air conditioning systems in buildings
Industry UsageFood, beverage, cold storage, manufacturingCommercial, residential, industrial buildings

Refrigeration Operators and HVAC Technicians share certifications and safety training, but they work in different environments. Refrigeration Operators focus on industrial refrigeration systems in food processing and storage, while HVAC Technicians handle heating and cooling systems in buildings. Both roles are essential in their industries, but they serve distinct purposes and environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refrigeration operator?

To thrive as a Refrigeration Operator, you need a solid understanding of refrigeration systems, troubleshooting skills, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification such as RETA or EPA certification. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), ammonia or Freon-based equipment, and maintenance management software is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help ensure safe and efficient operation. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining system reliability, preventing hazards, and supporting facility operations.

What is a refrigeration operator?

Refrigeration operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining refrigeration systems in facilities such as food processing plants, cold storage warehouses, and manufacturing sites. Their duties include starting and stopping equipment, performing routine inspections, identifying and troubleshooting malfunctions, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of refrigeration units. They also maintain records, follow safety protocols, and may assist with repairs or system upgrades. Refrigeration operators play a critical role in ensuring that temperature-sensitive products are stored safely and equipment runs smoothly.

What are some common challenges refrigeration operators face in maintaining system efficiency and how can they address them?

Refrigeration Operators often encounter challenges such as fluctuating system pressures, unexpected equipment malfunctions, and maintaining optimal energy efficiency. Addressing these issues typically involves regular system monitoring, performing preventive maintenance, and promptly troubleshooting alarms or irregularities. Operators also collaborate closely with maintenance teams and facility managers to ensure repairs are conducted swiftly and to implement energy-saving measures. Staying updated with industry best practices and participating in ongoing training can further help mitigate these challenges and maintain smooth operations.

Is refrigeration operator a good career?

Refrigeration operators install, maintain, and repair refrigeration and HVAC systems, often working in industrial, commercial, or food service environments. The job typically requires technical skills, certifications, and adherence to safety standards, with employment prospects generally stable due to ongoing demand for refrigeration maintenance. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in technical work and problem-solving.

What are popular job titles related to Refrigeration Operator jobs in Tennessee?

For Refrigeration Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refrigeration Operator jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Refrigeration Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Refrigeration Operator jobs in TN?

For Refrigeration Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Refrigeration Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refrigeration Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,519 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Ammonia Refrigeration Operator / Technician

OSI Jobs

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$27 - $36/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Ammonia Refrigeration Operator / TechnicianLocation: Knoxville, TNCompensation: $27 $36/hr + overtimeCompany: Nationwide Food ManufacturerSchedule12-hour shifts (6am 6pm or 6pm 6am)2-on / 2-off / 3-on rotating scheduleDay and night shift opportunities availableJob SummaryNationwide food manufacturer seeking Ammonia Refrigeration Operators and Technicians to support operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of industrial ammonia refrigeration systems in a food processing environment. Open to candidates ranging from developing operators to experienced refrigeration technicians.Job Requirements1 6 years of industrial maintenance and/or ammonia refrigeration experienceExperience troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems preferredAbility to read P&IDs and technical diagramsRETA/CARO/CIRO certifications preferred or willingness to obtainExperience with compressors, pumps, valves, boilers, or industrial utilities preferredComfortable working in industrial environments with varying temperatures and physical demandsStrong safety awareness, communication, and teamwork skills
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About OSI Jobs

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OSI Jobs is an executive search firm that specializes in the contingency and retained recruitment of food & beverage and medical device manufacturing professionals across the United States. For over 20 years, OSI Jobs has been particularly successful completing searches with a high-level need. This includes searches that need to be conducted confidentially, that need to be filled rapidly, must be handled sensitively, or are particularly tough to fill, etc. We have the latest in search technology at our fingertips. We conduct our searches rapidly and with the utmost respect and attention to confidentiality. We have a strong commitment to the professional representation of our clients and our candidates. Our recruiting process reflects our high standard for integrity and ethical standards.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Cleveland, OH, US

Year founded

1992

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