Refrigeration Design Engineer

WR HVAC | MEP; Southampton; On-site; GBP 51,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Design Engineer – Refrigeration to enhance their design and pre-construction function. This senior position offers a unique opportunity for long-term career growth. Responsibilities include supporting the design department with costing and specifications for industrial refrigeration projects, producing detailed technical drawings, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in refrigeration design and good commercial awareness. A competitive salary and benefits package are provided.

Benefits

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Private healthcare

Pension scheme after 6 months

Qualifications

• Strong background in refrigeration design or large-scale refrigeration / HVAC engineering.
• Solid understanding of refrigeration principles and components.
• Confident in reading and producing technical drawings.

Responsibilities

• Support design department with costing and specification of projects.
• Prepare specifications and compile design briefs.
• Collaborate with project managers and ensure compliance.

Skills

Refrigeration design

Technical drawings

Stakeholder management

Feasibility assessment

Job description

Design Engineer – Refrigeration

Our client is looking to appoint a Design Engineer to strengthen their refrigeration design and pre‑construction function. This vacancy has arisen due to an upcoming retirement, offering a rare opportunity to step into a senior, influential role with long‑term progression.

The position focuses on supporting the design department with the costing, scoping and specification of industrial refrigeration projects. Once the pre‑construction phase is completed, projects are handed over to a dedicated Project Manager, with continued input from the technical and costing teams throughout the delivery process. Projects are nationwide, with a strong concentration in the South.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the design department with the costing, scoping and specification of industrial refrigeration projects.
• Prepare initial specifications, assess requirements and compile accurate design briefs.
• Work closely with the design team to produce detailed technical drawings and system specifications.
• Assist in preparing tender and quotation documentation.
• Collaborate with project managers, suppliers and subcontractors to ensure designed solutions are compliant, deliverable and commercially viable.
• Provide technical oversight to ensure design packages meet industry standards, safety requirements and best practices.
• Support commissioning documentation and handover packages, including O&M manuals and compliance information.
• Offer technical input during project execution when required, liaising with site teams and providing design clarification.

Requirements

• Strong background in refrigeration design or large‑scale refrigeration / HVAC engineering.
• Solid understanding of refrigeration principles, components and refrigerants (HFC / CO₂ / Ammonia).
• Confident in reading and producing technical drawings and engineering specifications.
• Good commercial awareness with the ability to cost jobs accurately and assess feasibility.
• Strong communication, documentation and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Self‑motivated, organised and comfortable working both independently and within cross‑functional teams.
• Full UK driving licence.

Package & Benefits

• Salary : £60,000 (negotiable depending on experience)
• Vehicle : Electric or hybrid company car, or car allowance + fuel card
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Private healthcare
• Pension scheme (after 6 months)