This position is to maintain and operate equipment including air compressors systems, HVAC systems, fire protection systems, low oxygen systems and the ammonia refrigeration system.

The refrigeration operator is a member of the maintenance team, which includes wet end mechanics, packaging mechanics, electricians, process control technicians, area supervisors, and the department manager. This position reports primarily to the Boiler and Refrigeration Supervisor, Shift Manager on shift, and the Maintenance Manager.

The area of work includes both inside the facility and outside, depending on work requirements. Weekend and overtime work in this position is common and may be required to meet operational goals.

The individual in this position will be required to fully understand the purpose and operation of the refrigeration systems and have the ability to make basic decisions based on sound judgment when a situation dictates. It is imperative that the refrigeration operators conduct themselves in a manner that ensures alertness and constant awareness of the safe operation of equipment and their surroundings.

The individual in this position will be subjected to typical seniority shift preference, however, 2 qualified operators must be on shift at all times. Shift changes will be performed as necessary and as often as needed to fill operational needs. Overtime/holiday/weekend work requirements in this position can be common and may be required to meet operational goals.

Key Responsibilities

1. Ensures no injuries to self or others by following safe work practices and policies.
2. Performs refrigeration operational and maintenance duties for the Grand Forks site. Performs defrost on all freezer evaporators.
3. Maintains work area in a clean and functional condition.
4. Ensures that work orders are completed as assigned.
5. Performs assigned responsibilities during plant evacuation or other emergency situations, which includes monitoring the fire sprinkler system.
6. Ensures the accuracy of data reporting systems such as refrigeration logs, fire protection systems, and cold storage warehouse recorders.
7. Works on trouble-shooting a large ammonia facility, work on related preventative maintenance work orders and duties that require two or more employees.
8. Operates and maintains the compressed air system, HVAC and AMU units, low oxygen systems as well as the Fire Protection System.
9. Plays a supporting role in the continued progress of plant process safety management system (PSM).
10. Performs basic duties using ammonia full face gas mask. Certification is required.
11. Performs acetylene cutting and heating in a safe and correct manner when repairing and fabricating equipment.
12. Understands fully lock/out tag out procedures both for electrical and valve shut off.
13. Ensures self-compliance with Company policies and procedures and Collective Bargaining Agreement.
14. Ensures attendance and participation in training activities appropriate to the position and incorporates acquired skills and knowledge.
15. Conducts self in a professional manner and ensures personal appearance meets the standards necessary to perform the job function while representing the Company.
16. Ensures additional accountabilities that are required by management be handled in a manner necessary to meet operational divisional standard.

Typical Education

Relevant Experience

Required Certifications

Must obtain CIRO certification within 1 year, and 2 years’ experience OR recognized boiler safety training. Must provide required tools.

Other Information

• Must be able to read, understand, and communicate in English in a manner to successfully complete job duties.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs. (heavy valves, motors, etc.)
• Must be able to use a computer and successfully navigate through various applications. Must be proficient at computer system data entry.
• Must be able to stand on concrete floors for long periods of time.
• Must be able to work in extreme environments (cold, hot, humid and slippery).
• Must have a basic knowledge and understanding of HVAC equipment and be able to change filters, belts, and do other minor repairs.
• Must have a practical mechanical background and manual dexterity in both hands.
• Must be able to read and interpret written instructions, manufacturers’ manuals, material safety data sheets, and engineering drawings.
• Must possess or obtain in first week of job a Simplot forklift license.
• Applicants must be available to work any shift (7am-7 pm or 7pm-7am).
• Must have good communication, math and computer skills.
• Physical activities include walking, bending, stair and ladder climbing, and lifting up to 40 lbs. on a daily basis.