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Refrigeration Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Boiler Plant Operator

Boston, MA · On-site

$34.79 - $43.49/hr

... refrigeration, HVAC systems including high pressure steam boilers, chillers, compressors, pumps ... assigned Boiler Plant Operator; performs training as required. 8. Enters operating data in ...

Plant Operator

Batavia, IL · On-site

$28.30 - $34.51/hr

What your day-to-day as a Plant Operator at Fermilab will look like: * You will operate and ... Knowledge of cryogenics and the refrigeration process is desirable. Physical Activity and Work ...

Plant Operator

Batavia, NY · On-site

$28.30 - $34.51/hr

What your day-to-day as a Plant Operator at Fermilab will look like: * You will operate and ... Knowledge of cryogenics and the refrigeration process is desirable. Physical Activity and Work ...

$34.79 - $43.49/hr

... refrigeration, HVAC systems including high pressure steam boilers, chillers, compressors, pumps ... assigned Boiler Plant Operator; performs training as required. 8. Enters operating data in ...

Wastewater Plant Operator I

Salina, KS · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

WASTEWATER PLANT OPERATOR I City of Salina, Kansas Utilities Department On the Job Video The ... Installation & repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems, & refrigeration systems ...

Showing results 41-60

Refrigeration Plant Operator information

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$13

$22

$39

How much do refrigeration plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 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:

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.

Plant Technician Operator

Chester, VA

Airliquidehr
Chemical Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$26 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Contribute to the operation and stewardship of equipment used in air separation, vacuum swing absorption, and carbon dioxide plants.

  • Commit to the routine care, troubleshooting, and maintenance of plant mechanical, instrumentation, and electrical devices and equipment.

  • Facilitate the operation of various processing plants to support facility startups, team training, and coverage for fellow production team members.


Air Liquide rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

R10093772 Plant Technician Operator (Open)

Location:

Chester, VA - ASUHow will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW?We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the unique perspectives of our employees, our customers, patients, community stakeholders, and cultures across the world. We believe that a variety of backgrounds makes our team stronger and more innovative.At Airgas, we RESPECT, HONOR and VALUE diversity.Airgas is Hiring for a Plant Operator in Chester, VA!We are looking for you!
  • Pay: $26-$30 / HR (DOE)

  • Schedule: 12 hour rotating Day/Night

  • Comprehensive Family Benefits:Airgas offers a full benefits package designed to support your whole life, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, and Disability Insurance.

  • Support for Parents:We offer a 14-week paid child birth benefit to support growing families.

  • Future Security:401(k) Retirement Plan with company match, Tuition Assistance, Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick time.

  • Early Access:Your benefits start after just 30 days of employment

Recruiter: Ladedra Walthall ladedra.walthall@airliquide.com | 6789856735

Airgas is seeking a dedicated Production Plant Operator to join our team at one of our Merchant Gas production facilities. In this role, you will contribute to the total operation of the facility. All operators are expected to ensure optimal plant production, maintain strict regulatory compliance, and prioritize a safe working environment.

  • Operations & Stewardship: Contribute to the operation and stewardship of equipment used in air separation, vacuum swing absorption, and carbon dioxide plants.

  • Maintenance & Care: Commit to the routine care, troubleshooting, and maintenance of plant mechanical, instrumentation, and electrical devices and equipment.

  • Operational Support: Facilitate the operation of various processing plants to support facility startups, team training, and coverage for fellow production team members.

  • Safety & Compliance: Adhere to all safety protocols and regulatory standards to ensure a safe, efficient, and compliant workplace.

________________________Are you a MATCH?

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma

  • 2 - 3 years of industrial plant / cryogenic plant experience preferred.

  • Understanding of control valve functions and systems used to control flows & pressures on industrial tanks

  • Experience troubleshooting equipment in a plant environment

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Air Separation Plant or related industrial experience would be a valuable addition to the team.

  • Water Treatment - an understanding of water treatment principles and equipment is welcomed.

  • Refrigeration - A basic understanding of refrigeration systems is a great asset.

  • Air Separation - A basic understanding of air separation and associated technologies is highly regarded.

  • Electrical/Instrumentation experience or interest is a plus.

________________________

Benefits

We care about and support our Airgas Families. This is evident not only through our competitive compensation but also through a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision plans, short-term and long-term disability, life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), pre-tax commuter transportation benefit, parental leave, vacation, sick time, floating holidays, jury duty and funeral/bereavement leave, and paid holidays for all eligible full-time employees.

Additionally, we offer our eligible employees a 401k plan with company matching funds, tuition reimbursement, discounted college tuition for eligible employees' dependents, and an Airgas Scholarship Program for dependent children.

Associates who are members of collective bargaining units should review their bargaining agreement to determine whether they are eligible for some or all of the benefits described here and to see any special terms or conditions for eligibility.

_________________________

Your DIFFERENCES enhance our PERFORMANCE

At Airgas, we are committed to building a workplace that embraces the diversity of our employees, our customers, patients, community stakeholders and cultures across the world.

We welcome and consider applications from all qualified applicants, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability or any other protected characteristic. We strongly believe a diverse organization opens up opportunities for people to express their talent, both individually and collectively and it helps foster our ability to innovate by living our fundamentals, acting for our success and creating an engaging environment in a changing world.

_________________________

About Airgas

Airgas, an Air Liquide company, is a leading U.S. supplier of industrial, medical and specialty gases, as well as hardgoods and related products; one of the largest U.S. suppliers of safety products; and a leading U.S. supplier of ammonia products and process chemicals. Through the passion and diversity of its 18,000 associates, Airgas fosters a culture of safety, customer success, sustainability and innovation. Airgas associates are empowered to share ideas, take initiative and make decisions.

Airgas is a subsidiary of Air Liquide, a world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and healthcare. Present in 60 countries with approximately 66,500 employees, Air Liquide serves more than 4 million customers and patients.

Join us for a stimulating experience: At Airgas, you matter and so does the work you do. As a member of our team, you play an important role in the success of your team, making sure our products are created sustainably and delivered safely and efficiently. In turn, you'll find a welcoming workplace where you're valued for who you are and where you can fill your potential while growing a fulfilling career - whatever path you choose.

_________________________

Equal Employment Opportunity Information

We are an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

Airgas, an Air Liquide Company is a Government contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Airgas does not discriminate against qualified applicants with disabilities, and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to the known disabilities of such individuals so as to ensure equal access to benefits and privileges of employment. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact us by email at us-accommodationrequest@airgas.com.

_________________________

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