Refrigeration Operator – Ice Maker 3

The University of British Columbia; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of British Columbia is seeking a Refrigeration Operator – Ice Maker 3 to manage ammonia refrigeration operations and maintain ice surfaces at the Arena Facility. The role involves daily maintenance of equipment, building cleanliness, and safety tasks, with shift work including mornings, evenings, and weekends.

Candidates should have a strong background in power engineering and refrigeration, with related certifications and five years of experience, plus a valid BC Class 5 license.

Qualifications

• High school graduation with technical training and trade credentials.
• 5th Class Power Engineering Certification with Refrigeration Operator Certificate.
• Valid Class 5 BC driver's license and related experience.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor ammonia refrigeration plant safely and efficiently.
• Perform routine maintenance on auxiliary vehicles and equipment.
• Maintain ice surface and building conditions per safety and quality standards.
• Assist with custodial tasks, repairs, and safety-related duties as needed.
• Ensure compliance with WorkSafeBC and Technical Safety BC requirements.

Skills

Ice making operations

Safety compliance

Customer service

Education

5th Class Power Engineering Certification

Refrigeration Operator Certificate

Building Service Worker Certificate

Driver's license (Class 5 BC)

Job description

Staff - Union Job Category CUPE 116 Job Profile CUPE 116 Salaried - Refrigeration Operator - Ice Maker 3 Job Title Refrigeration Operator – Ice Maker 3 Department Arena Facility | Athletics and Recreation Compensation Range Posting End Date August 27, 2026

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

Job End Date Ongoing This position is auxiliary. As such, assigned hours and schedules will vary according to operational need.

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.

Job Summary

Under the general direction of the Chief Engineer and Senior Manager, Operations, this position is responsible for ammonia refrigeration plant operations, daily routine maintenance of auxiliary vehicles and equipment, and any duties assigned for maintenance, cleanliness (custodial), setup, and safety of the building. The incumbent will be responsible for all maintenance in the building including minor repairs, emergency glass & board repair, bulb and filter replacements, facility conversions, vehicle maintenance, custodial maintenance, and other related duties as assigned. The incumbent is also responsible for delivering a necessary level of customer service to clients, guests, service partners, and all rink user groups. Shift work is required for this position, including mornings, evenings, and weekends.

Organizational Status

Athletics & Recreation (A&R) is a department within the VP Students portfolio, with a strong focus on creating an exceptional UBC student experience. The A&R Department has a team of approximately 125 employees, and is led by a strong cross-unit management team. It services over 60,000 students through recreational programming, 26 varsity teams, 13 competitive club teams, along with thousands of members of the UBC community.

Work Performed

Knowledge of methods, equipment, materials, and procedures for ice making and refrigeration operations. Ensures ammonia refrigeration plant operations are performed safety and efficiently according to industry standards. On an on-going basis, be up-to-date with; plant conditions by reviewing the operations communication binder, work orders, log book, shift turn over reports, plant control systems, or other communication protocols as directed or required. Ensure that all WorkSafeBC and Technical Safety BC requirements are met and adhere to all operational and safety procedures including wearing PPE when required Knowledge and skill with the methods, equipment, materials, and procedures used in janitorial and building maintenance work. Operates and maintains all vehicles and equipment connected with assigned facilities as per established procedures and standards. Operates and services all vehicles, maintenance tools and equipment involved on the job including the ability to change blades, grease, and check oil and fluid levels. Performs all activities required to prepare for, produce, and maintain ice surface and building conditions as required. Works from instructions (written & verbal), operating requirements, guidelines and procedures; Always works in a safe operating manner. Checks and ensures that the workers work in a safe and correct manner and that all normal safety practices are adhered to. Responsible for regular ammonia refrigeration plant checks. Responsible for keeping washrooms, dressing rooms, hallways, lounges, offices, workspaces, and all public spaces clean, free of debris, and in safe operating condition. Ability to deal tactfully and be assertive with groups and individuals to enforce facility rules and regulations. Coordinates and oversees the work of assigned staff as required. Carries out other related duties as required.

Consequence of Error/Judgement

This position is expected to function by exercising a high degree of maturity and sound judgement. The position also impacts relationships with the community, alumni, and other organizations that are vital for UBC. Poor decisions or lack of tact, diplomacy, or sensitivity could potentially result in missed opportunities, damaged relationships, and significant loss of credibility for the University. This role is required to respond to emergency situations, resolving immediate safety and/or operational concerns to ensure minimal work interruption and safe operations. Responsible for being the on-duty ammonia refrigeration plant operator and, while on shift, is responsible for actively seeking out and identifying potential issues, being the critical incident responder for any issues with the ammonia refrigeration plant or connected systems.

Supervision Received

Works under direction of the Chief Engineer and Senior Manager, Operations.

Supervision Given

None.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school graduation supplemented by related technical training with a minimum 5th Class Power Engineering Certification with a Refrigeration Operators Certificate of Competency and a minimum 5 years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Valid class 5 drivers license.
• Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own
• Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

• REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
• High school completion
• 5th Class Power Engineer Certification or Refrigeration Operator Certificate
• Building Service Worker Certificate
• Fork lift operating ticket is an asset
• Valid Class 5 British Columbia driver’s license
• Experience operating ice resurface machinery and equipment
• Willing to provide a current criminal record check
• Willing to provide a current driver’s abstract
• Willing to obtain CPR and First Aid Certification
• Ability to operate ice making, refrigeration, and resurfacing equipment.
• Previous experience working as a building service or maintenance worker.
• Ability to make independent decisions, solve problems, and exercise good judgement.
• Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills.
• Projects a professional appearance.
• Demonstrates initiative, sound judgement, positive attitude, and responsiveness when dealing with the public, user groups, and staff.
• Ability to be discrete and to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Sufficient physical and mental stamina to perform in emergency situations.
• Computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite.
• Must be able to lift or carry up to 50lbs.

The University of British Columbia is a global centre for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities globally. A large part of what makes us unique is the community of engaged students, faculty, and staff who are collaboratively committed to shaping a better world. Recognized as a leading employer in British Columbia and Canada, UBC supports inspired students, faculty and staff on their journey of discovery, and challenges them to realize their greatest potential. New ideas, changing infrastructure, innovative technology, and fresh approaches are opening up possibilities for the future of research, teaching, and work. Are you ready to embrace the future together?

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, and/or Indigenous person.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If you have any accommodation or accessibility needs during the job application process, please contact the Centre for Workplace Accessibility at [e-mail].