Refrigeration Technician (Chicago)

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 62,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) retirement plan

Employee health insurance

Dental and vision insurance

Paid vacation and holidays

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Employee discounts

Job summary

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. seeks a Service Technician to repair, maintain, and support industrial refrigeration equipment at customer sites across North America.

You will work on ammonia and Freon systems, perform electrical troubleshooting, and ensure safety practices during long shifts. The role requires a high school diploma or GED, EPA universal certification (or ability to obtain), RETA 1&2 preferred, and the physical ability to climb ladders and wear a respirator.

Qualifications

• Must have a high school diploma or GED; HVAC trade school preferred.
• EPA Universal Certification or ability to obtain it.
• RETA 1 & 2 certification preferred.
• Experience with ammonia central systems and safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Repair and maintenance support for industrial refrigeration equipment at customer sites.
• Perform routine and emergency service on ammonia and Freon systems.
• Troubleshoot electrical controls and alarms, perform preventive maintenance.
• Adhere to all safety policies and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Safety awareness

Physical stamina

Electrical troubleshooting

Ammonia refrigeration knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

HVAC trade school preferred

EPA Universal Certification

RETA 1&2 certification

Job description

Service Technician

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. is the leading provider of industrial refrigeration and process cooling solutions, delivering custom engineered systems utilizing natural refrigerants such as ammonia and CO₂. Through a fully integrated approach encompassing engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, nationwide service, and advanced aftermarket solutions, Innovative supports customers across the food and beverage, cold storage, pharmaceutical, industrial manufacturing, and mission‑critical infrastructure markets throughout North America and around the world.

Unlike traditional engineering firms, contractors, or equipment suppliers, Innovative performs engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, service, and ongoing customer support entirely in-house. This integrated model provides employees the opportunity to support projects throughout the complete lifecycle, from concept and design through manufacturing, installation, startup, operation, optimization, modernization, and long‑term system support.

Job Role

A Service Technician is responsible for the repair, maintenance, & support of industrial refrigeration equipment for our valued customers. A working knowledge of commercial & industrial refrigeration and electrical controls is required to be successful in this role.

Pay: $30-60/hour, dependent on experience

Schedule: Monday - Friday (45-60 hours per week)

Key Duties

• Responsible for refrigeration repair and maintenance support to industrial accounts in food and beverage and refrigerated storage equipment ranging from 100 HP to 5,000 HP
• Perform routine and emergency service on ammonia and Freon refrigeration equipment commonly found in industrial applications
• Use working knowledge of screw and reciprocal compressors, electrical troubleshooting all common types of ammonia central systems, & control/alarm systems to perform inspections and preventative maintenance as required
• Demonstrate an understanding and adherence to all work safety policies, procedures and governing requirements

Requirements

• Must be a high school graduate or have attained a GED, HVAC tech school preferred
• Universal EPA certification OR ability to obtain
• RETA 1&2 certification preferred
• Motor alignment experience a plus
• Company is a tobacco‑free workplace and, as such, no tobacco products are allowed during the workday on the job site(s).
• The position requires a pre‑employment drug screening, felony screening, and motor vehicle record screening
• This position is a safety‑sensitive position and will require pre‑employment and regular drug testing
• Excellent physical condition as you will be required to climb ladders, wear a respirator, work 10 to 12‑hour days, and occasional heavy lifting.
• The position requires a pre‑employment drug screening, felony screening, and motor vehicle record screening
• Must be able to wear a respirator and pass a fit test

Benefits

In addition to a competitive base salary, we provide a comprehensive and employee‑focused benefits package designed to support your financial security, health, and work‑life balance:

• Generous retirement plan with a dollar‑for‑dollar 401(k) match up to 15%
• 401(k) student loan repayment match up to 15%
• Medical insurance with 75% of employee and family premiums covered by the company
• Dental and vision insurance options
• Optional supplemental insurance coverage
• Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage
• Company‑paid life insurance
• Weekly pay
• Competitive paid vacation and holiday time
• Paid sick leave, bereavement leave, and jury duty leave
• Employee referral bonus program
• Opportunities for career advancement, professional development, training, and apprenticeship programs
• Access to employee discounts on cell phone plans, vehicle rentals, and other eligible services