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Refrigeration Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

City Facilities Management

RHVAC Technician

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$25.25 - $34.75/hr

Maintain refrigeration and HVAC for a group of retail locations. * Repair equipment, such as ... and any operating deficiency of the mechanical equipment to ensure quality work performance.

City Facilities Management

RHVAC Technician

Crofton, MD

$25.25 - $34.75/hr

Maintain refrigeration and HVAC for a group of retail locations. * Repair equipment, such as ... and any operating deficiency of the mechanical equipment to ensure quality work performance.

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All JobsRefrigeration Operator JobsRefrigeration Operator Jobs in Washington

Refrigeration Operator information

See Washington salary details

$17

$29

$35

How much do refrigeration operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for refrigeration operator in Washington is $29.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.34 and $32.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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 good career for those interested in technical work and problem-solving in a hands-on environment.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Refrigeration Operator jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Refrigeration Operator job openings:

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

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

Refrigeration Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refrigeration Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,546 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Refrigeration Service Technician - Commercial & Industrial

CoolSys

Manassas, VA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

CoolSys rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 281 rated repair and maintenance companies

Job description

Overview

WHY COOLSYS?

At CoolSys, we offer more than just a job—we provide stability, growth, and industry-leading benefits for our employees.

No wonder Newsweek named CoolSys one of America’s Greatest Workplaces!

As a large company serving diverse customers, we invest in our team with:

  • Competitive Compensation: $30-$40 hourly DOE
  • Ongoing Education & Training: Access to state-of-the-art facilities and paid online training.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription coverage, paid vacation/holidays, and 401(K).
  • Year-Round, Diverse Work: Stay engaged with consistent, interesting projects throughout the year, working across various industries and systems to keep learning and growing.
  • Extra Perks: Quarterly bonus plan, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts on vehicles, hotels, theme parks, pet insurance, and more.

Join us and advance your career while working with top-tier clients in the HVAC and refrigeration industry!


Responsibilities

This position is responsible for assisting in the repair and overhaul of equipment, refrigeration, heating, and ventilation equipment to ensure customer needs are met efficiently, accurately, and on time. 

  • Provides service to the customer base by repairing and overhauling equipment, such as compressors, water pumps, air handlers, and electrical and mechanical control devices in a safe, efficient, and timely manner that exceeds customers’ expectations
  • Provides general repair work on refrigeration, heating, and ventilation equipment, such as air conditioning units, evaporative condensers, ice machine equipment, water pumps, gas furnaces, compressors, and electric motors in a safe and timely manner.
  • Provides preventative maintenance activities for customers by diagnosing equipment malfunction and any operating deficiency of the mechanical equipment to ensure quality work performance for the customer base.
  • Test malfunctioning systems and components using electrical and/or mechanical skills.
  • Maintain legible corporate and personal records of work history.
  • Provides department support by processing job tickets, and work orders to the necessary department promptly.
  • Provide support by picking up, delivering, and installing cases.
  • Perform work on minor construction and remodeling projects including startups of new installations.
  • Drives company vehicle in a safe manner.
  • Performs other related duties and projects as assigned by management.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma/GED.
  • EPA certification.
  • Certification from an accredited vocational-technical or trade school is a plus!
  • Minimum 5+ years of commercial refrigeration experience required.
  • Experience working on refrigeration equipment in convenience stores or supermarkets is a strong plus.
  • Familiarity with single systems and rack systems along with previous work on display cases and walk-in boxes is very helpful.
  • Must have a good driving record and be able to work independently.
  • Emergency on-call availability is a basic requirement.
  • Must be able to lift to 60 lbs. with no assistance and also be able to sit and/or stand for several hours at a time.

Join Us

Today, there are 27 different companies that make up the CoolSys family of brands. Our valued employees are at the heart of our continued growth and success. We invite you to be part of that growth! 

Connect with us on Facebook and X.  

CoolSys is an EEO/AA Employer. All qualified individuals - Including all ages, colors, disability, ethnicity, family or marital status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, physical and mental ability, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, and other characteristics are encouraged to apply.  

Pre-employment background screening (criminal and MVR for driving positions) and drug testing arerequiredfor all positions. CoolSys will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with federal law, state law, or local ordinance. 

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma/GED.
  • EPA certification.
  • Certification from an accredited vocational-technical or trade school is a plus!
  • Minimum 5+ years of commercial refrigeration experience required.
  • Experience working on refrigeration equipment in convenience stores or supermarkets is a strong plus.
  • Familiarity with single systems and rack systems along with previous work on display cases and walk-in boxes is very helpful.
  • Must have a good driving record and be able to work independently.
  • Emergency on-call availability is a basic requirement.
  • Must be able to lift to 60 lbs. with no assistance and also be able to sit and/or stand for several hours at a time.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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