Lead Industrial Refrigeration Technician

About the Role
Our client, a prominent entity in the food processing industry, is seeking an experienced Lead Industrial Refrigeration Technician to manage and oversee all refrigeration systems at their facility in Kimberley, Northern Cape. This critical role ensures the efficient and safe operation of large-scale industrial refrigeration units, including ammonia or freon-based systems, cold storage, and processing chillers. The Lead Technician will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, repair, and optimization of these complex systems, leading a team of refrigeration technicians. You will play a key role in ensuring compliance with stringent safety and environmental regulations, conducting regular inspections, and implementing preventative maintenance programs to minimize operational disruptions. The ideal candidate possesses extensive expertise in industrial refrigeration, strong diagnostic skills, and proven leadership capabilities. Your proactive approach and technical acumen will be vital in maintaining the integrity of the cold chain and supporting uninterrupted production. This is a hands‑on leadership position requiring a deep commitment to operational excellence and team development. You will also be involved in budgeting for parts and services, and ensuring optimal energy efficiency of the refrigeration infrastructure.Key Responsibilities
Lead and supervise a team of industrial refrigeration technicians, providing technical guidance and training.Oversee the installation, maintenance, repair, and optimization of industrial refrigeration systems, including compressors, chillers, evaporators, and control systems.Perform complex diagnostics and troubleshooting on refrigeration systems to identify and resolve issues efficiently.Develop and implement robust preventative maintenance schedules to ensure system reliability and longevity.Ensure strict adherence to all safety protocols, environmental regulations (e.G., handling refrigerants), and company policies.Conduct regular inspections of refrigeration equipment and facilities.Manage spare parts inventory and order necessary components.Assist in the commissioning of new refrigeration equipment and upgrades.Investigate equipment failures and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.Collaborate with production and engineering teams to support operational goals.Requirements
Qualified Industrial Refrigeration Technician with a relevant trade certificate or diploma.Significant experience (minimum 8 years) in the maintenance and repair of industrial refrigeration systems, preferably in a food processing or similar environment.Demonstrated experience leading or supervising a technical team.In-depth knowledge of various refrigeration systems (e.G., ammonia, HFCs), compressors, and control technologies.Proficiency in reading and interpreting refrigeration schematics and technical manuals.Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills.Excellent understanding of safety procedures and environmental regulations related to refrigeration.Good communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.Willingness to work shifts, respond to emergencies, and be on call as needed.Valid driver's license.Benefits
Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and leadership responsibilities.Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.Opportunities for career advancement and professional development in industrial refrigeration technologies.Secure employment within a leading company in the food processing sector.A dynamic team environment with opportunities for skill enhancement.Annual bonus incentives based on company and individual performance.Paid leave and other statutory benefits.
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