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Refrigeration Trainee Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Cargill

Maintenance Technician I

Big Lake, MN · On-site

$31.65 - $37.50/hr

... Trainee Program at Cargill * Willingness and ability to complete the following trainings and obtain license or certification: boiler license, forklift license, ammonia specific refrigeration training ...

Cargill

Maintenance Technician I

Foley, MN · On-site

$31.65 - $37.50/hr

... Trainee Program at Cargill * Willingness and ability to complete the following trainings and obtain license or certification: boiler license, forklift license, ammonia specific refrigeration training ...

Cargill

Maintenance Technician I

Big Lake, MN

$31.65 - $37.50/hr

... Trainee Program at Cargill * Willingness and ability to complete the following trainings and obtain license or certification: boiler license, forklift license, ammonia specific refrigeration training ...

Cargill

Maintenance Technician I

Monticello, MN · On-site

$31.65 - $37.50/hr

... Trainee Program at Cargill * Willingness and ability to complete the following trainings and obtain license or certification: boiler license, forklift license, ammonia specific refrigeration training ...

Cargill

Maintenance Technician I

Big Lake, MN · On-site

$31.65 - $37.50/hr

... Trainee Program at Cargill * Willingness and ability to complete the following trainings and obtain license or certification: boiler license, forklift license, ammonia specific refrigeration training ...

Cargill

Maintenance Technician I

Princeton, MN · On-site

$31.65 - $37.50/hr

... Trainee Program at Cargill * Willingness and ability to complete the following trainings and obtain license or certification: boiler license, forklift license, ammonia specific refrigeration training ...

Cargill

Maintenance Technician I

Big Lake, MN · On-site

$31.65 - $37.50/hr

... Trainee Program at Cargill * Willingness and ability to complete the following trainings and obtain license or certification: boiler license, forklift license, ammonia specific refrigeration training ...

Cargill

Maintenance Technician I

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$31.65 - $37.50/hr

... Trainee Program at Cargill * Willingness and ability to complete the following trainings and obtain license or certification: boiler license, forklift license, ammonia specific refrigeration training ...

Cargill

Maintenance Technician I

Elk River, MN · On-site

$31.65 - $37.50/hr

... Trainee Program at Cargill * Willingness and ability to complete the following trainings and obtain license or certification: boiler license, forklift license, ammonia specific refrigeration training ...

All JobsRefrigeration JobsRefrigeration Trainee JobsRefrigeration Trainee Jobs in Minnesota

Refrigeration Trainee information

See Minnesota salary details

$26K

$37.2K

$56.3K

How much do refrigeration trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for refrigeration trainee in Minnesota is $37,186.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29,400.00 and $41,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refrigeration trainee?

Refrigeration Trainees are entry-level workers who are learning the skills needed to install, maintain, and repair refrigeration systems such as those used in commercial refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioning units. They typically work under the supervision of experienced technicians, gaining hands-on experience while also learning about safety standards, mechanical systems, and troubleshooting techniques. The role is ideal for individuals interested in a career in HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) or refrigeration technology, and it often involves both on-the-job training and classroom instruction. As trainees gain experience, they may become certified technicians and take on more complex tasks.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect as a refrigeration trainee in my first year?

As a Refrigeration Trainee, you will frequently assist experienced technicians with installing, maintaining, and repairing refrigeration systems in both commercial and residential settings. Your daily tasks may include handling tools, learning to read blueprints, troubleshooting equipment, and performing routine inspections under supervision. You'll also gain exposure to safety protocols and industry regulations, gradually taking on more responsibility as your skills develop. This hands-on learning environment is designed to build your technical confidence and prepare you for more advanced roles in the field.

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

To thrive as a Refrigeration Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, electrical principles, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often complemented by enrollment in an HVAC/R training program. Familiarity with hand and power tools, refrigerant handling procedures, and safety certifications like EPA Section 608 are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn make candidates stand out in this position. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient installation and maintenance of refrigeration systems while minimizing downtime and errors.

What is the difference between Refrigeration Trainee vs Refrigeration Technician?

AspectRefrigeration TraineeRefrigeration Technician
CertificationsBasic HVAC or refrigeration courses, on-the-job trainingAdvanced certifications like EPA 608, HVAC licenses
Work EnvironmentLearning phase, supervised tasks, entry-level settingsIndependent work, maintenance, installation in commercial/residential settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with repairs, learning system operationsDiagnosing issues, repairing, installing refrigeration systems

The main difference between a Refrigeration Trainee and a Refrigeration Technician is experience and certification level. Trainees are in learning and assisting roles, often with basic certifications, while technicians are fully qualified professionals responsible for repairs and installations. Trainees focus on gaining skills, whereas technicians perform independent work in the refrigeration industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Refrigeration jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Refrigeration jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Refrigeration Trainee jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Refrigeration Trainee job openings:

Refrigeration Trainee jobs near you

Maintenance Technician I

Cargill

Big Lake, MN • On-site

$31.65 - $37.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Cargill rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 225 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 49 rated food wholesalers

Job description

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at careers.cargill.com or text CargillJobs to 60196.
Want to build a stronger, more sustainable future and cultivate your career? Join Cargill's global team of 160,000 employees who are committed to safe, responsible and sustainable ways to nourish the world. This position is in Cargill's protein and salt business, where we provide wholesome, high-quality food products to a wide range of customers, from foodservice operators and grocery stores to manufacturers and exporters.
Job Location: Big Lake, MN
Job Type: Full Time
Shift(s) Available: 3rd
Compensation: $31.65 - $37.50/hr
Benefits Information
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Insurance
  • Health and Wellness Incentives
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) with Cargill Matching Contributions
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Discounts

Principal Accountabilities
  • Accountable for troubleshooting using a variety of hand tools to set up, break down, adjust production line machinery, and performing other duties pertaining to hydraulics and pneumatics, all while making safety the number one priority
  • Accountable for working with electrical systems, refrigeration systems, plumbing, manufacturing equipment, boiler operation, water quality, waste water, and complete projects, preventative maintenance, and water quality inspection procedures testing by making adjustments in a timely manner
  • Complete all paperwork pertaining to work orders, service call reports and purchase requisitions, initiate purchase requisitions for parts and document shift events, problems and repairs or actions taken
  • Maintain adherence to all Corporate Environmental Health and Safety Policies and Procedures
  • Follow and champion personal and food safety policies and procedures as well as reporting any and all concerns or violations to the Leadership Team
  • All job duties may be revised by the supervisor when necessary to accommodate business needs. The descriptions are general guidelines of expectations but may not include all responsibilities of the position

Required Qualifications
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States without visa sponsorship
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • 2 years of Maintenance experience or completion of Maintenance Trainee Program at Cargill
  • Willingness and ability to complete the following trainings and obtain license or certification: boiler license, forklift license, ammonia specific refrigeration training and certification
  • Availability to work outside of normal shift up to including weekend and off shift hours as needed
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous maintenance experience
  • Food manufacturing experience
  • Previous leadership experience
  • Production experience
  • Ability to rebuild and repair pump valve cylinders, gear reducers, self-aligning bearings, and other related components
  • Work history in the last 12 months

Please note that this position does not include relocation reimbursement.
Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet

What Cargill employees say

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About Cargill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cargill was founded in 1865 as a single grain warehouse in Iowa, U.S. Since then, we’ve grown to become a global partner connecting people around the planet. But one thing has remained constant over the years: our purpose of nourishing the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. Cargill is committed to conducting business with integrity, operating responsibly, enriching communities and nourishing the world. In the fiscal year 2021, Cargill provided $110.5 million in total charitable contributions in 56 countries to support our communities. Cargill businesses and employee-led groups partner with local civic, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations on programs and projects that improve food security and nutrition; support human rights, equity and inclusion; strengthen farmer livelihoods; and advance our commitments in the areas of land use, water and climate.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

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