Lead Refrigeration Engineer

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance

Company vehicle and fuel allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Refrigeration Engineer to oversee a team of technicians in George, Western Cape. The role focuses on the operation, maintenance, and upgrade of large industrial refrigeration systems, with emphasis on safety and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate will have 7+ years in industrial refrigeration, including 3 years in a leadership role, and strong project management skills.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in industrial refrigeration engineering.
• 3+ years in a supervisory role.
• Knowledge of ammonia, CO2 and synthetic refrigerants.
• Ability to read P&IDs and electrical schematics.
• Project management experience is essential.
• Certification in handling refrigerants and First Aid is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of refrigeration technicians with coaching and evaluations.
• Oversee installation, maintenance, and repair of large refrigeration systems (ammonia/CO2).
• Develop preventive maintenance schedules to minimize downtime.
• Diagnose complex refrigeration issues and implement solutions.
• Manage refrigeration projects from design to commissioning.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance and proper refrigerant handling.
• Maintain logs of maintenance, repairs, inventory and performance data.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure integration with operations.
• Stay updated on refrigeration tech and recommend upgrades.
• Respond to emergencies to ensure business continuity.

Skills

Team leadership

Troubleshooting

Safety compliance

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Mechanical Engineering

Refrigeration Technology

Job description

About the Role Our client is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Refrigeration Engineer to oversee operations and projects in George, Western Cape. This pivotal role involves managing a team of refrigeration technicians, ensuring the efficient and safe operation of complex industrial and commercial refrigeration systems. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of thermodynamics, advanced troubleshooting skills, and a proven track record in project management and team leadership. You will be responsible for maintaining critical refrigeration infrastructure, implementing new system designs, and ensuring compliance with all safety and environmental regulations. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant impact within a leading food processing and distribution company located in the beautiful region of George, Western Cape. We are looking for an individual with exceptional technical acumen and strong leadership qualities to drive operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of refrigeration technicians, providing technical guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
• Oversee the installation, maintenance, and repair of large-scale industrial refrigeration systems, including ammonia and Freon-based systems.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules to minimize downtime and optimize system performance.
• Conduct in-depth diagnostics and troubleshooting of complex refrigeration issues.
• Manage refrigeration-related projects, from conception and design to implementation and commissioning.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety protocols, environmental regulations, and industry best practices for handling refrigerants.
• Maintain accurate logs of maintenance activities, repairs, inventory, and system performance data.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless integration of refrigeration systems with overall operations in George.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in refrigeration technology and recommend upgrades or improvements.
• Respond to emergency situations and provide expert solutions to ensure business continuity.

Requirements

• Relevant trade qualification or degree in Mechanical Engineering or Refrigeration Technology.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in industrial refrigeration engineering, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Extensive knowledge of various refrigeration systems, including ammonia, CO2, and synthetic refrigerants.
• Proven ability to read and interpret P&IDs, electrical schematics, and technical manuals.
• Strong understanding of compressor types, heat exchangers, and control systems.
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Certification in handling refrigerants and a valid First Aid certification are advantageous.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and be on call for emergencies within the George, Western Cape area.
• A proactive approach to safety and environmental compliance.

Benefits

• Attractive annual salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Performance-based incentives and annual bonus.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and international certifications.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• Company-provided vehicle and fuel allowance for work-related travel in George. A dynamic and supportive team environment.