HVAC / Refrigeration Project Manager

Kwik Trip, Inc.; La Crosse (WI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Kwik Trip, Inc. is seeking an experienced HVAC / Refrigeration Project Manager to lead mechanical construction and retrofit projects across our retail and support facilities, with a strong emphasis on commercial refrigeration systems, including rack systems, walk-ins, and store-level cooling equipment.

You’ll ensure refrigeration and HVAC systems are installed safely, operate efficiently, and support reliable store operations across a growing network.

Qualifications

• 4–6 years of experience managing HVAC and/or refrigeration projects.
• Strong experience with commercial refrigeration systems (rack systems, piping, or controls preferred)
• Universal EPA 608 Certification (preferred)
• PMP or similar project management certification (preferred)
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical and refrigeration plans
• Knowledge of refrigerants, compliance requirements, and environmental regulations
• Familiarity with building automation systems and mechanical design principles
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines

Responsibilities

• Lead HVAC and refrigeration projects, including remodels, new installations, system replacements, and emergency replacements
• Manage projects involving rack refrigeration systems, walk-in coolers/freezers, and display cases
• Oversee field execution, conduct site visits, and ensure projects stay on schedule and meet safety standards
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction teams on scope, budgets, and timelines
• Serve as the primary contact for refrigeration and HVAC contractors
• Manage bidding, contractor selection, and project scopes of work
• Track project budgets, change orders, RFIs, and documentation
• Evaluate existing systems and develop upgrade or replacement plans
• Coordinate equipment ordering and ensure on-time delivery for projects
• Oversee system startup and commissioning, including performance verification
• Provide technical support to service technicians and facilities teams
• Stay current on refrigerant regulations, compliance standards, and new refrigeration technologies (CO₂, low-GWP systems)

Skills

HVAC project management

Refrigeration systems

Education

Associate degree in HVAC or related field

EPA 608 Certification

PMP certification (preferred)

Job description

Job Type: Full-time

About the Role

Kwik Trip is seeking an experienced HVAC / Refrigeration Project Manager to lead mechanical construction and retrofit projects across our retail and support facilities. This role places a strong emphasis on commercial refrigeration systems, including rack systems, walk-ins, and store-level cooling equipment.

You’ll play a key role in ensuring refrigeration and HVAC systems are installed safely, operate efficiently, and support reliable store operations across a growing network.

What You’ll Do

• Lead HVAC and refrigeration projects, including remodels, new installations, system replacements, and emergency replacements
• Manage projects involving rack refrigeration systems, walk-in coolers/freezers, and display cases
• Oversee field execution, conduct site visits, and ensure projects stay on schedule and meet safety standards
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction teams on scope, budgets, and timelines
• Serve as the primary contact for refrigeration and HVAC contractors
• Manage bidding, contractor selection, and project scopes of work
• Track project budgets, change orders, RFIs, and documentation
• Evaluate existing systems and develop upgrade or replacement plans
• Coordinate equipment ordering and ensure on-time delivery for projects
• Oversee system startup and commissioning, including performance verification
• Provide technical support to service technicians and facilities teams
• Stay current on refrigerant regulations, compliance standards, and new refrigeration technologies (CO₂, low-GWP systems)

What We’re Looking For

• Associate degree in HVAC, Refrigeration, Construction Management, or related field (preferred)
• 4–6 years of experience managing HVAC and/or refrigeration projects
• Strong experience with commercial refrigeration systems (rack systems, piping, or controls preferred)
• Experience coordinating contractors and managing field execution
• Universal EPA 608 Certification (preferred)
• PMP or similar project management certification (preferred)
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical and refrigeration plans
• Knowledge of refrigerants, compliance requirements, and environmental regulations
• Familiarity with building automation systems and mechanical design principles
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines

Physical Requirements

• Lift up to 50 lbs
• Frequent standing, walking, climbing, and working in varied environments
• Exposure to outdoor conditions, temperature extremes, and noise
• Ability to work in confined spaces when needed

Work Schedule

Full-time, Monday through Friday, with travel to job sites as needed