Refrigeration Mechanic - 2nd Shift

Smithfield Fresh Meats Corp; Virginia; On-site; USD 37,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Retirement Benefits

Education benefit

Job summary

Smithfield Fresh Meats Corp in Virginia seeks an Industrial Maintenance Technician to support critical equipment repairs and inspections in a fast-paced meat production facility.

Role emphasizes RETA standards, ammonia refrigeration knowledge, and safety-first teamwork, with the ability to handle unplanned requests and food-safety practices. Full-time hourly with multi-shift options, strong benefits, and ongoing training.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with 1+ years in industrial mechanical maintenance or related field.
• Experience in RETA, ammonia refrigeration, engine/boiler systems and controls.
• Knowledge of PLC, instrumentation, electrical and motor controls.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with strong safety practices.
• Willingness to work all shifts, including extended hours and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct equipment repairs with a focus on safety and efficiency.
• Perform routine audits and inspections of plant equipment.
• Respond to unplanned work requests promptly and effectively.
• Maintain open communication with operations and follow food safety practices.
• Demonstrate troubleshooting abilities and support continuous improvement.

Skills

RETA Certification

Ammonia Refrigeration

Engine & Boiler systems

Electricity & motor controls

Controls & instrumentation

PLC/software & hardware

Pneumatics & Hydraulics

Mechanical systems

Maintenance Planning

Troubleshooting

Tools

Pipefitting & welding

Machining

Metal fabrication

Job description

Company Culture

Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special – a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact.

Compensation & Benefits

Your Opportunity Our team members receive industry-competitive salaries and are eligible for great benefits packages:

• Hourly Maintenance Competitive Starting Pay: $27.00/hr - $39.00/hr
• $1.00/hr shift differential for 2nd & 3rd shift
• Comprehensive Health Insurance, Retirement Benefits and More
• Education benefit available to full and part-time Smithfield team members upon meeting eligibility requirements

Core Responsibilities

• Have or be able to attain RETA certification
• Demonstrate strong safety leadership skills and follow safe work practices
• Work as part of a team to plan and conduct equipment repairs
• Conduct routine audits and equipment inspections
• Demonstrate troubleshooting abilities
• Maintain open and professional line of communication with operations
• Respond to unplanned/emergency work requests in a timely & effective manner
• Follow food safety and good manufacturing practices
• Be highly motivated and able to work independently

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and 1+ years of related experience and/or training in an industrial mechanical maintenance or food manufacturing environment; or 4 years’ direct experience in an industrial mechanical maintenance or food manufacturing maintenance environment. Industrial maintenance experience should include comprehensive knowledge in three or more of the following areas: RETA Certification, Ammonia Refrigeration, Engine & Boiler systems, Electricity & motor controls, Controls & instrumentation, PLC/software & hardware, Pneumatics & Hydraulics, Mechanical systems, Predictive/Predictive maintenance, Maintenance Planning, Site utilities, System analysis & troubleshooting, Pipefitting & welding, Machining, Metal fabrication, Basic computer skills and the ability to work independently are also required for this position. Preference will be given to candidates with a certification or degree in mechanical, electrical or industrial maintenance and/or related college or technical level coursework. This is a full time hourly position; all applicants should be willing to work all shifts (days/evenings/overnights), extended hours and weekends.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals. Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud when in the production area. Occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. Regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds utilizing the buddy system or specifically designed lifting devices. Specific vision includes close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus. Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, and talk or hear.

Relocation Package

IndSPR-M/E Relocation Package Available

Equal Opportunity & Accommodations

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

Additional Benefits & Programs

Smithfield is proud to offer robust, flexible and affordable benefit plans and programs to support our team members and their loved ones, and with out-of-pocket costs, on average, 20 percent less than plans offered by other employers. Beyond our medical plans, our Be Well programs offer tools and resources to enhance your quality of life, at no additional cost. These programs are uniquely tailored to our Smithfield team and provide support for elective surgeries, weight loss, mental health, cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, smoking cessation, asthma, maternity management and more. Our company invests in your future. We offer comprehensive training and professional development programs designed to help you reach your full potential. Through LinkedIn Learning, employees can access on‑demand courses, professional certificates, and skill‑based training to build capabilities aligned with career and business needs. Our partnership with Guild supports your continuing education with tuition assistance covering English language learning, high school completion, and degree programs, while our leadership development initiatives nurture high‑potential talent.

We also offer unique benefits like our Smithfield Scholarship Program for employees’ children.

Company Background

Headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, since 1936, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is an American food company with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products. With a diverse brand portfolio and strong relationships with U.S. farmers and customers, we responsibly meet demand for quality protein around the world. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com. We believe in the power of protein to end food insecurity and have donated hundreds of millions of food servings to our communities. Smithfield boasts a portfolio of high-quality iconic brands, such as Smithfield®, Eckrich® and Nathan's Famous®, among many others. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com and connect with us on Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.