Refrigeration Superintendent - 1st Shift

Perdue Farms; Georgetown (DE); On-site; USD 101,000 - 151,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401(k) with match

Dental and vision

Life insurance

Disability protection

Paid time off

Job summary

Perdue Foods in Georgetown, DE is seeking a Refrigeration Superintendent to lead critical refrigeration operations that support safe, efficient production across the facility. You will supervise maintenance teams, guide daily operations, and drive a high performing work environment through continuous improvement and team‑based leadership.

The role requires 3–5 years in an industrial setting, a high school diploma or equivalent, and preferred coursework in electrical, hydraulics, and ammonia

Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent required.
• 3–5 years’ experience in an industrial environment.
• Strong reading, writing, math, and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Supervise general associates including hiring, training, and developing to meet production goals.
• Provide timely, accurate reports on safety, production, and costs.
• Maintain safe work environment and ensure quality and plant safety.

Skills

Leadership

Team development

Operations management

Safety compliance

Analytical skills

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Bachelor’s or Associate degree

Job description

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

Lead critical refrigeration operations that support safe, efficient, and reliable production across the facility. As a Refrigeration Superintendent, you will oversee maintenance team performance, guide daily operations, and drive a high performing work environment through continuous improvement and team-based leadership. You will ensure systems meet production demands while upholding safety, quality, and operational standards. This role is ideal for a strategic, hands-on leader who excels at developing teams, improving processes, and delivering dependable performance that supports overall plant success.

The salary range for this position is $101,000 - $151,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).
In addition to the base salary, 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

Monday through Friday 7:00am-4:00pm

• Manages and supervises general associates including hiring, training, and developing associates to ensure production requirements and goals are met at least cost.
• Provides timely, accurate, and consistent reports, i.e., safety, production, cost administrative, etc. to ensure production requirements and goals are met at least cost.
• Provides a safety work environment for all associates, eliminating unsafe acts or conditions.
• Ensures the Quality Improvement Process and team management concept are employed within areas of responsibility.
• Controls costs and assets managed within established goals.
• Manages the installation of new equipment; maintains a chain efficiency of 98% while maintaining quality and ensuring associated and plant safety.

Minimum Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• 3 - 5 years’ experience in an industrial environment.
• Strong reading, writing, math, and analytical skills required.
• Requires some travel to remote facilities and plants for meetings.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree or Associate's degree. Equivalent experience will be considered in lieu of degree.
• Technical courses in electrical, hydraulics, and ammonia refrigeration.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

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 dust, feathers and all chemicals used in poultry, food, processing facility.
• Must wear and use protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company.
• Occasional exposure to carbon dioxide vapors 10ppm and chlorine less than 20 ppm.
• Able to stand for several hours.

Work may include lifting (up to 50 lbs.), reaching, bending, pushing boxes on conveyor assembly.

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.