Refrigeration Manager and PSM Coordinator
Harrison Poultry Inc.
Bethlehem, GA
Estimated pay: Est. $34–$44/hr (market estimate, not employer-stated)
[Source: Teal]
About the position The Refrigeration Manager and PSM Coordinator is a senior-level employee responsible for managing the poultry processing plant’s refrigeration systems and overseeing the Process Safety Management (PSM) program. This dual role ensures the safe, efficient operation of refrigeration equipment (e.g., ammonia-based systems) while maintaining compliance with OSHA’s PSM standards for hazardous chemicals, protecting workers, equipment, and production continuity. Responsibilities Oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of refrigeration systems, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, and ammonia or freon-based units.Supervise refrigeration technicians, assigning tasks, setting maintenance schedules, and ensuring timely repairs to minimize downtime.Develop and implement preventive maintenance plans to optimize cooling performance and extend equipment lifespan.Monitor refrigeration system metrics (e.g., temperature, pressure, refrigerant levels) to ensure consistent chilling and storage conditions for poultry products.Coordinate with production teams to address cooling needs and schedule.Manage the plant’s PSM program, ensuring compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.119 for ammonia refrigeration systems or other hazardous chemicals.Conduct risk assessments, process hazard analyses (PHA), and safety audits to identify and mitigate refrigeration-related hazards.Maintain PSM documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), employee training records, incident reports, and equipment safety data.Train plant staff on PSM requirements, emergency response procedures, and safe handling of refrigerants.Lead incident investigations for refrigeration system failures or chemical releases, implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.Ensure refrigerant handling complies with environmental regulations and oversee refrigerant inventory and disposal.Manage budgets for refrigeration maintenance and PSM compliance, reporting costs and improvement recommendations to upper management.Respond to refrigeration emergencies, directing rapid repairs and coordinating with safety teams to protect personnel and product.Requirements High school diploma or equivalent required3 years of experience in refrigeration system managementPrior supervisory experience in a food processing or poultry plant environmentPSM certification or extensive knowledge of OSHA PSM standards (29 CFR 1910.119) requiredStrong technical expertise in industrial refrigeration systems (e.g., ammonia systems) and troubleshooting mechanical/electrical issuesLeadership skills to manage technicians and coordinate PSM training across departmentsAnalytical skills to conduct hazard analyses, interpret data, and optimize refrigeration performanceCommunication skills to work with staff, regulators, and management on technical and compliance mattersAbility to inspect equipment, climb ladders, and lift up to 70 lbs during oversight or emergenciesNice-to-haves Technical degree or certification in refrigeration, HVAC, or industrial engineering strongly preferred