Refrigeration and Utilities Technician I - 2nd shift

Perdue; Prince George (VA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Rx

401(k) with employer match after 1 yr

Dental

Vision

Life insurance

Short/Long-term disability

Flexible spending accounts

Paid time off

Job summary

Perdue Foods is seeking a Refrigeration and Utilities Technician I for the 2nd shift to support industrial ammonia refrigeration and utilities systems, ensuring safe, reliable plant operations.

You will work with a dedicated team, gain hands-on training, and have access to refrigeration/utilities certifications to advance your skills. The role offers a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 0-3 years experience in Industrial maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs on mechanical and electrical equipment.
• Beginner proficiency in hydraulics, mechanics, electrical concepts, and refrigeration/utilities systems.
• Commitment to continuous learning and safety training (OSHA Hazardous Materials).

Responsibilities

• Assist with maintaining industrial ammonia refrigeration/utilities equipment (boilers, compressed air, cryogenics systems).
• Perform basic troubleshooting, repairs, and maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment related to refrigeration/utilities systems.
• Respond to equipment/system breakdowns in a timely manner.
• Comply with safety standards and quality protocols to ensure production standards are met.

Skills

Industrial maintenance

Troubleshooting

Electrical concepts

Refrigeration systems

Hydraulics

Safety training

Computer literacy

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

2-year Technical Degree

Job description

Refrigeration and Utilities Technician I - 2nd shift

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth‑generation, family‑owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward‑thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work‑life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary

Build a strong technical foundation while supporting critical plant systems. As a Refrigeration and Utilities Technician I, you’ll work alongside a dedicated and diverse team to operate and support our industrial ammonia refrigeration and utilities systems, helping ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations. You’ll play a role in identifying opportunities for continuous improvement while gaining hands on experience through job training. This role offers clear growth potential, with access to additional maintenance certifications along with refrigeration and utilities specific training and certifications to help you advance your skills and career.

This position has a target wage of $21 - $31.50 per hour, based on shift, experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance). Overtime may be available.

In addition to hourly wages, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short‑term and long‑term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.

Schedule: Sun, Mon, Tue and every other Wednesday 6:00pm - 6:00am. Saturdays/ Weekends as business needs dictate.

• Associates in the Refrigeration/Utilities Technician I classification receive on‑the‑job training and entry level experience in operating industrial ammonia refrigeration/Utilities systems and maintenance pertaining to the refrigeration and utilities systems.
• Must be able to demonstrate/achieve and maintain Refrigeration/Utilities Technician I proficiency within 10 months of hire.
• Assists with maintaining industrial ammonia refrigeration/utilities equipment (i.e. boilers, compressed air, cryogenics systems, troubleshooting issues, and performing routine routes and inspections). Must be able to perform all SOPs as they pertain to the refrigeration/utilities system (i.e. startups, shutdowns, and defrost procedures on refrigeration systems).
• Performs basic troubleshooting, repairs, and maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment as it pertains to refrigeration/utilities systems.
• May assist other Refrigeration/Utilities Technicians or management in routes, maintenance as well as system start‑ups or shutdowns.
• Responds to equipment/system breakdowns in a timely manner.
• Understands and follows all safety standards and quality protocols to ensure production exceeds the standards.
• Collaborates well with production or maintenance associates to solve problems with reliability within refrigeration/utilities systems with urgency.
• Recognizes and reports about unusual, inefficient, or dangerous mechanical, electrical, refrigeration or utilities situations.
• Utilizes appropriate safety precautions, methods, and apparatuses to minimize and withstand exposure to chemicals, dust, and mechanical and electrical hazards.
• Learn and observe all safety precautions as required by Perdue.
• Maintains work records and prepares clear and concise oral and written reports.
• Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Works all required work schedules.
• Comply with all federal, state and company safety requirements related to ammonia, confined space training, i.e., CPR/FA.

Minimum Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or Equivalent and Equivalent Experience.
• 0-3 Years experience in Industrial maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs on Mechanical and Electrical Equipment, and/or Equivalent Military Experience.
• Beginner proficiency in Hydraulics, Mechanics, Electrical concepts, and refrigeration/utilities systems.
• Commitment to Continuous Learning to achieve increasing levels of expertise.
• Beginner proficiency in computers and web‑based applications.
• Safety and Hazard Training (OSHA Hazardous Material Technician).

Preferred Education and Experience

• 2‑year Technical Degree in Engineering or Industrial Maintenance.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

• Sitting, standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, reaching overhead and/or at shoulder level, lifting (50 lbs.) and/or repetitive tasks throughout the day.
• Position requires occasional moving to other offices or buildings.
• Day travel to nearby locations is sometimes required.

When in a plant environment:

• Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.
• May be exposed to temperatures of 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with both ambient and 100% humidity.
• May handle products from 25 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
• May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 db to 110 db.
• May be exposed to all chemicals used in poultry, food, and processing plants.
• May need to access files, supplies, and equipment.
• Must wear and use protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company.
• Must be able to pass a physical test, pulmonary test, SCBA fit test, and meet the requirements of a HAZMAT Team Member annually.
• There are periodic Checks: Associates may be required to participate in regular fit tests when respirators are necessary.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.