HVAC / Refrigeration Project Manager

Kwik Trip, Inc.; La Crosse (WI); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Kwik Trip, Inc. in Wisconsin is seeking an experienced HVAC and refrigeration Project Manager to lead mechanical construction and retrofit projects across our retail and support facilities.

You will oversee rack refrigeration systems, walk-ins, display cases, and central cooling equipment to ensure safe installation and reliable store operations. The role requires 4–6 years of project leadership, coordination of contractors, budgeting, scheduling, and staying current with refrigerant regulations

Qualifications

• 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.

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

Contractor coordination

Read/interpret plans

Safety compliance

EPA 608 Certification

PMP certification

Education

Associate degree in HVAC

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