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Refrigeration Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HKA Enterprises

Facilities Plant Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$22/hr

... or refrigeration mechanics * Demonstrated advanced skills in plant operations with strong ... Experience operating plant PLCs and SCADA systems Additional Information HKA Enterprises is a ...

UF Health

Plant Operator

Saint Johns, FL · On-site

... and power for refrigeration, air conditioning and other services to the facility. #ACDP ... Required Experience:1-2 years - Building maintenance or central plant operations.

UF Health

Plant Operator

Saint Johns, FL · On-site

... and power for refrigeration, air conditioning and other services to the facility. #ACDP ... Required Experience: 1-2 years - Building maintenance or central plant operations.

Uofl

... refrigeration equipment, and the underground tunnel system that distributes steam and chilled water throughout Belknap Campus. This position ensures the safe, reliable, and efficient production and ...

UF Health

Plant Operator

Saint Johns, FL · On-site

... and power for refrigeration, air conditioning and other services to the facility. #ACDP ... Required Experience: 1-2 years - Building maintenance or central plant operations.

Airliquidehr

Plant Technician Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

R10093772 Plant Technician Operator (Open) Location: Chester, VA - ASU How will you CONTRIBUTE and ... Refrigeration - A basic understanding of refrigeration systems is a great asset. * Air Separation ...

Airgas

Plant Technician Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

R10093772 Plant Technician Operator (Open) Location: Chester, VA - ASU How will you CONTRIBUTE and ... Refrigeration - A basic understanding of refrigeration systems is a great asset. * Air Separation ...

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Refrigeration Plant Operator information

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$13

$22

$39

How much do refrigeration plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for refrigeration plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refrigeration plant operator?

Refrigeration plant operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and monitoring industrial refrigeration systems. They ensure that cooling equipment runs efficiently and safely, perform routine inspections, troubleshoot malfunctions, and comply with safety and environmental regulations. Their work is essential in industries such as food processing, cold storage, and manufacturing, where precise temperature control is critical. Operators may also handle refrigerants, record data, and make adjustments to the system to optimize performance.

What are some common challenges refrigeration plant operators face during routine operations?

Refrigeration Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining system efficiency during fluctuating loads, promptly detecting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Operators must closely monitor gauges and sensors, troubleshoot issues under time constraints, and coordinate with maintenance or engineering teams for repairs. Staying up-to-date with evolving refrigerant technologies and best practices is also essential for optimal plant performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refrigeration plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Refrigeration Plant Operator, you need knowledge of refrigeration systems, mechanical aptitude, and typically a relevant trade certification or license. Familiarity with control systems, pressure gauges, and refrigerant handling equipment is essential, along with compliance to safety and environmental regulations. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation and maintenance of refrigeration systems, minimizing downtime and safety risks.

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

AspectRefrigeration Plant OperatorHVAC Technician
CredentialsTypically requires refrigeration licenses or certificationsRequires HVAC certifications, often including EPA 608
Work EnvironmentIndustrial refrigeration plants, cold storage, food processing facilitiesResidential, commercial, and industrial buildings
Industry UsageCommon in food, beverage, and cold storage industriesWidespread across construction, maintenance, and service sectors

Refrigeration Plant Operators and HVAC Technicians share similar certifications and work environments, but Refrigeration Plant Operators focus on industrial refrigeration systems in specialized facilities, while HVAC Technicians handle a broader range of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in various settings.

More about Refrigeration Plant Operator jobs

What states have the most Refrigeration Plant Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Refrigeration Plant Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Refrigeration Plant Operator jobs?

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

Refrigeration Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refrigeration Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Facilities Plant Operator

Tucson, AZ • On-site

HKA Enterprises
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about HKA Enterprisesexternal

$22/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Diagnose operating problems and direct/perform corrective actions during assigned shift

  • Conduct preventive maintenance on Central Utility Plant and Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant systems

  • Operate PLCs and SCADA systems, read gauges and meters, and make process control adjustments

Job description


Plant Operations • Chillers • SCADA • Water Treatment • Tucson, AZ
Night shift: Wed-Sat 8:00PM-6:30AM (4×10-hr shifts). Training: Mon-Fri 7AM-3:30PM for 1-2 months.
Pay: $22.00- $24.00 per hour DOE
We're looking for an experienced Central Utility Plant Operator to perform a variety of tasks in the operation and maintenance of a Central Utility Plant - including equipment maintenance, quality control testing, and day-to-day operations on an assigned shift. You'll diagnose operating problems, conduct preventive maintenance, operate PLCs and SCADA systems, and make independent operating decisions when supervision is absent.
What you'll do
  • Diagnose operating problems and direct/perform corrective action during assigned shift
  • Conduct preventive maintenance on Central Utility Plant and Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant systems
  • Read gauges and meters, operate valves, start/stop equipment, and make process control adjustments
  • Determine and set proper chemical dosage and flow rates; operate PLCs and SCADA systems
  • Collect samples and perform routine laboratory tests and analyses on water treatment
  • Monitor, utilize, and update CMMS system; maintain complete records and plant logs
  • Make operating decisions independently in the absence of supervisory personnel
  • Prepare required reports and attend safety, process control, and training meetings

What you need
  • High school diploma or GED
  • 3+ years of experience in water/wastewater plant operations, utility mechanics, stationary engineering, or refrigeration mechanics
  • Demonstrated advanced skills in plant operations with strong independent judgment
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in environments with noise, confined spaces, chemicals, and outdoor conditions
  • Availability for Wed-Sat night shift 8PM-6:30AM after completing training

Nice to have
  • 3-5 years of Central Utility Plant experience - chillers, compressors, cooling towers, building management systems, emergency generators, fire pumps, and water treatment programs
  • Universal Refrigerant Processing Certificate - or working toward it
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CMMS, and data management systems
  • Experience operating plant PLCs and SCADA systems

Additional Information
HKA Enterprises is a global workforce solutions firm. If you're seeking a new career opportunity or project experience, our recruiters will work to understand your qualifications, experience, and personal goals. At HKA, we recognize the importance of matching employee goals with those of the employer. We strive to seek credibility, satisfaction, and endorsement from all of our applicants. We invite you to take time and search for your next career experience with us! HKA is an EEO Employer who participates in the US Citizenship and Immigration Services E-Verify Program.
Meet Your Recruiter
Matthew Alexander
HKA Enterprises is a global workforce solutions firm. If you're seeking a new career opportunity or project experience, our recruiters will work to understand your qualifications, experience, and personal goals. At HKA, we recognize the importance of matching employee goals with those of the employer. We strive to seek credibility, satisfaction, and endorsement from all of our applicants. We invite you to take time and search for your next career experience with us! HKA is an EEO Employer who participates in the US Citizenship and Immigration Services E-Verify Program.
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About HKA Enterprises

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fingerville, SC, US

Year founded

1977

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