Refrigeration Technician

Elite Connector; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Elite Connector is seeking an experienced Industrial Refrigeration Mechanic for a Tucson, AZ facility. You will maintain and repair ammonia systems, troubleshoot PLC controls, and read detailed schematics to ensure safe, efficient operation.

The role emphasizes hands-on expertise, RETA-certified or Level I training, and the ability to work independently in an industrial setting with on-call responsibilities.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of hands-on industrial refrigeration experience.
• Strong experience with industrial ammonia (NH3 / R-717) systems.
• Ammonia Refrigeration Level I training and/or RETA certification (CARO or CIRO).
• Experience with PLC-based controls and troubleshooting industrial equipment.
• Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read mechanical drawings, P&IDs, and electrical schematics.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair industrial ammonia refrigeration systems.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on refrigeration equipment and components.
• Monitor and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems and equipment.
• Identify issues and adjust to improve system performance and efficiency.
• Handle refrigerants, leak detection, pump-downs, oil changes, and safe isolation.
• Read P&IDs, mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and manuals.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and documentation.
• Follow safety procedures including lockout/tagout and applicable standards.
• Participate in after-hours emergency response and on-call rotation.
• Support and mentor less experienced technicians.

Skills

Industrial refrigeration

NH3 / R-717

RETA certification

PLC troubleshooting

Reading schematics

Safety procedures

Driver's license

Job description

Elite Connector is partnering with an established mechanical services company to seek an experienced Industrial Refrigeration Mechanic in Tucson, AZ.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with industrial ammonia refrigeration systems, formal Ammonia Refrigeration Level I training and/or RETA certification, and experience working with PLC controls.

You do not need experience with CO₂ refrigeration or rotary screw compressor maintenance to qualify. The company is willing to train the right candidate in these areas.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced ammonia refrigeration professional looking for a stable, long-term position with competitive hourly pay and union benefits.

What You'll Do

• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair industrial ammonia refrigeration systems.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on refrigeration equipment, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, pumps, valves, and controls.
• Monitor and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems and refrigeration equipment.
• Identify equipment issues and make adjustments to improve system performance and efficiency.
• Perform refrigerant handling, leak detection, pump-downs, oil changes, and equipment isolation safely.
• Read and interpret P&IDs, mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and equipment manuals.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and documentation.
• Follow all safety procedures, including lockout/tagout and applicable refrigeration safety standards.
• Participate in after-hours emergency response and an on-call rotation as needed.
• Support and mentor less experienced technicians.

What We're Looking For

Required:

• At least 5 years of hands-on industrial refrigeration experience.
• Strong experience working with industrial ammonia (NH3 / R-717) refrigeration systems.
• Ammonia Refrigeration Level I training and/or RETA certification (CARO or CIRO).
• Experience working with PLC systems and troubleshooting industrial equipment controls.
• Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read mechanical drawings, P&IDs, and electrical schematics.
• Knowledge of industrial refrigeration safety practices and procedures.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred, but not required:

• Experience with CO₂ refrigeration systems.
• Experience maintaining or troubleshooting rotary screw compressors.
• Experience with Mycom, GEA/Grasso, Bitzer, or other industrial refrigeration equipment.
• Industrial electrical troubleshooting experience, including motors, VFDs, and starters.
• EPA 608 Universal certification.
• Experience in food processing, cold storage, or other industrial facilities.
• GEA or Mycom factory training.

Training will be provided for CO₂ refrigeration systems and rotary screw compressor maintenance.

Schedule & Working Conditions

• Full-time position.
• NO travel - assigned to one facility.
• Work in an industrial refrigeration environment.
• Participate in an on-call rotation for after-hours emergencies.
• Ability to work in varying temperatures, including freezer environments.
• Ability to climb ladders and work in confined spaces when necessary.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and wear required personal protective equipment.