Refrigeration Manager

WATERSHED FOODS LLC•Gridley, IL

4d•$110,000 - $130,000•Onsite

About The Position

This role has full responsibility for the operation and upkeep of a 20,000-pound ammonia refrigeration system to support manufacturing. The individual will lead maintenance efforts for refrigeration, boiler, and steam systems, ensuring compliance, safety, and performance improvements through project management and proposal development. They will perform hands-on system repairs, manage parts inventory, and mentor team members as the system and staff grow. Collaboration with Maintenance and Engineering teams is essential, and coverage is provided by senior staff in the Refrigeration Manager's absence.

Requirements

Associate’s degree and/or certification in industrial refrigeration operation, design, or repair.
Understanding of refrigeration best practices.
General mechanical aptitude.
Proficient with Microsoft Office.
Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.
Excellent problem-solving skills.
Sound judgment and decision-making skills.
Ability to be flexible in prioritizing work based on changing circumstances.
Manage multiple assignments; ability to plan and organize work in order to meet project dates and objectives.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Process Safety Management certification preferred.
Experience in food manufacturing preferred.

Responsibilities

Assume responsibility, ownership, and daily accountability to ensure 20,000-pound ammonia system runs well to support manufacturing.
Take charge of maintenance for Refrigeration, Boiler, and Steam systems.
Maintain system compliance.
Prioritize and lead growth, maintenance and improvement projects.
Present proposals for necessary upgrades, repairs, and purchases with business rationales.
Maintain and improve Process Safety Management.
Track ammonia system parts inventory.
Directly complete repairs on the ammonia system.
Complete repairs according to best practices and industry standards.
Track inventory of issues and address according to priority order.
Educate and mentor authorized team members as system and staff increase.
Work with Maintenance and Engineering teams as needed, to complete projects, repairs, installations, etc. for refrigeration and other aspects of Operations.
In Refrigeration Manager’s absence, duties are covered by Maintenance Manager and Director of Engineering.