Refrigeration and Utilities Lead - 1st Shift

Perdue Farms

Sioux Center, IA

Estimated pay: Est. $38–$44/hr (market estimate, not employer-stated)

Perdue’s Emerging Brands & Specialty Meats division leverages our core strengths in poultry while specializing in premium pork, beef, lamb, and pet nutrition segments while emphasizing health, sustainability, and convenience. Perdue's Emerging Brands & Specialty Meats is part of Perdue Farms , a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue. Summary Step into a leadership role that keeps critical systems running safely and reliably. As a Refrigeration and Utilities Lead, you will provide hands on support for ammonia refrigeration and utilities operations while guiding and mentoring a team of technicians to deliver strong maintenance performance. You will drive a culture of continuous improvement, strengthen system reliability, and promote a proactive, safety-first environment across the facility. This role is ideal for an experienced technician who is ready to lead, influence, and elevate utilities operations while making a meaningful impact on plant performance and safety. This position is eligible for a $10,000 Hiring Bonus payable in installments over your first 12 months of employment. Terms and conditions apply. Schedule : Monday through Friday, 7:00am-5:00pm; Weekends as business needs dictate Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities Associates in this classification may perform highly technically complex tasks and decision-making while overseeing a team of Refrigeration/Utilities Technicians, which is typically attained through the Refrigeration/Utilities Technician III classification and certification. Must be able to demonstrate/achieve and maintain Refrigeration/Utilities Technician III proficiency within 10 months of hire. Leads team to deliver all planned work assigned. In collaboration with the supervisors, provides real time direction to the associates on the team in accordance with the organization's policies and procedures. Coaches, mentors, and guides the team daily, including assisting with new hire onboarding. Supports a team that promotes Perdue Values and Leadership Behaviors. In collaboration with the supervisor, leads associates to meet the organization's expectations for productivity, quality, continuous improvement, and goal accomplishment. Plans and allocate real time resources to effectively staff and accomplish the work to meet departmental productivity and quality goals. Plans evaluate and improve the efficiency of business processes and procedures to enhance speed, quality, efficiency, and output. Establishes, maintains relevant controls, and feedback systems to monitor the operation of the department. Learns and observes all safety precautions as required by Perdue. Maintains records and prepares clear and concise oral and written reports. Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing. Works all required work schedules. Minimum Education and Experience High School Diploma or GED. 5-8 Years experience in Industrial maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs on Mechanical and Electrical Equipment, and/or Equivalent Military Experience. Expert proficiency in Hydraulics, Mechanics, Electrical concepts, and refrigeration/utilities systems. Intermediate Proficiency with PLC. Commitment to Continuous Learning to achieve increasing levels of expertise. High proficiency in computers and web-based applications. Safety and Hazard Training (OSHA Hazardous Material Technician). Hold RETA Operator Lvl I/CARO & RETA Operator Lvl II/CIRO Certification and maintain certifications through RETA continuous education standards. Maintain the Perdue Farms QEW Certification. Preferred Education and Experience 2-year Technical Degree in Engineering or Industrial Maintenance. Incident Commander Training. Line Leadership experience. Other Certifications (i.e. Steam Boiler Operations, Steam Boiler Safety) are a plus. Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors Sitting, standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, reaching overhead and/or at shoulder level, lifting (50 lbs.) and/or repetitive tasks throughout the day. Position requires occasional moving to other offices or buildings. Day travel to nearby locations is sometimes required. When in a plant environment: Exposure primaril