Refrigeration Operator (T/V Hannah)

Northline Seafoods•Bristol Bay, AK

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Northline Seafoods is seeking a Refrigeration Operator. This position is responsible for overseeing the maintenance and operation of the refrigeration system onboard the Hannah , as well as supervising general maintenance of mechanical and electrical systems. The role may also include off-season work in the final processing and production of Bristol Bay salmon in Bellingham, WA . As our company grows, we are looking for candidates with a true all-hands-on-deck mindset. Travel Requirement: As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant identification is required for domestic air travel, including flights to Alaska. Candidates must meet this requirement prior to hire.

Requirements

18+ years old
Authorized to work in the U.S.
2+ years of hands-on experience operating and maintaining industrial refrigeration systems (ammonia or CO₂ preferred).
Experience in food processing, cold storage, marine, or heavy industrial environments.
Familiarity with compressors, condensers, evaporators, pumps, valves, and control systems.
Ability to perform routine inspections, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on refrigeration equipment.
Understanding of refrigeration principles, heat transfer, and thermodynamics fundamentals.
Ability to read P&IDs, mechanical drawings, and equipment manuals.
Basic electrical and control troubleshooting skills.
Knowledge of industrial safety practices, lockout/tagout (LOTO), confined space awareness, and PPE use.
Experience working with or around ammonia refrigeration systems and associated hazards.
Ability to respond to alarms and emergency situations in a calm and effective manner.
Ability to work aboard a vessel for extended periods (rotational schedule).
Ability to climb ladders, work in cold/freezer environments, and lift 50 lbs.
Willingness to work long hours, including nights and weekends, during production seasons.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain required transportation credentials.

Nice To Haves

Industrial ammonia refrigeration certifications (operator level or higher).
Maritime or vessel experience (factory trawler, processor, or shipboard engineering).
Experience with automated control systems (PLC/HMI/SCADA).
Prior experience in seafood processing or food manufacturing.
Mechanical trade background (millwright, marine engineer, HVAC/R technician, or similar).
EPA refrigerant handling certification.
Welding, fabrication, or pipefitting experience.
Basic computer skills for maintenance logs and reporting systems (CMMS).
Leadership experience or ability to supervise helpers/trainees.
Coast Guard credentials or marine safety training.

Responsibilities

Control and supervision of cold storage systems
Control and supervision of ice production
Coordinate with production to anticipate and respond to refrigeration and ice needs
Respond to equipment malfunctions and unplanned downtime
Assist with spiral freezer upgrades
Monitor and execute defrost cycles for evaporators and related equipment
Perform general refrigeration system maintenance and troubleshooting
Replace or repair faulty valves, evaporator fans, and related components
Source and procure replacement components and parts
Control and supervision of related mechanical and electrical systems
Ice feedwater systems
Condenser pumps
Perform general maintenance on related mechanical and electrical systems, including: Cold storage temperature sensors Freezer doors Lighting and ventilation systems
Perform small system upgrades, such as: PVC plumbing modifications