Refrigeration Technician (Refrigeration Operating Engineer)

PNW VEG CO LLC dba Norpac

Salem, OR

Pay: $29+/hr

Shift: Full time

PNW Veg Co dba NORPAC is seeking applications for an hourly **Refrigeration Technician** (Refrigeration Operating Engineer) to join us on-site to work with our maintenance team at our facility in Brooks north of Salem, Oregon.

As a Refrigeration Technician at PNW Veg Co dba NORPAC, you will be responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining industrial refrigeration systems to ensure optimal performance and product quality. This includes evaluating freeze tunnel output, performing preventive maintenance and repairs, and operating associated mechanical equipment such as boilers and air compressors. Refrigeration Technicians work closely with plant staff to support production schedules while maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with safety and operational standards. Additionally, this position provides leadership and hands-on support to other Refrigeration Technicians and maintains a safe, clean, and organized work environment.

Established in 1924, the NORPAC name has served the Willamette Valley and regional farmers for over 100 years. In the processing and packaging facilities, we currently process fresh fruits and vegetables and pack for our own label, Flav\*R\*Pac as well as for many local and national companies, the USDA, and much more. Our plant is just under 800,000 square feet under roof. Check out our website (norpac.com) to see what else our plant works on.

**RESPONSIBILITIES:**

• Monitor, operate, and record refrigeration system performance; adjust valves and controls to ensure optimal operation in accordance with company procedures.
• Evaluate product exiting freeze tunnels and adjust system controls to meet established product temperature and quality standards.
• Perform preventive maintenance and troubleshooting; maintain and repair refrigeration systems and related equipment.
• Operate, maintain, and repair boilers, air compressors, and auxiliary mechanical equipment as required.
• Coordinate and communicate with plant staff to support production schedules and the cleaning and maintenance of freezing and refrigeration systems.
• Maintain accurate operational, maintenance, and compliance records.
• Identify needed parts, equipment, and materials; specify requirements and submit requisitions as necessary.
• Lead, guide, and support Refrigeration Operating Engineers in the performance of daily duties, as assigned.
• Perform hands-on work alongside team members and assist with tasks performed by employees being led or supervised.
• Ensure a safe, sanitary, and well-organized work environment.
• Complete additional duties as assigned by maintenance and plant leadership.

**REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:**

• High school diploma or GED **AND** a one (1) year certificate from college/technical school **AND** one (1) year of experience equivalent to Refrigeration Operating Engineer **OR** an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Working knowledge of complex refrigeration systems.
• Hands-on experience working on refrigeration or similar systems.
• Strong verbal and written English communication skills.
• Experience working collaboratively across teams.
• Self‑motivated and capable of working independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accountability and situational awareness.
• Proficiency in basic mathematics as required for operational and maintenance tasks.
• Compute rate, ratio and percent.
• Read, interpret, and accurately record temperature and pressure gauge readings.
• Read, understand, interpret, and accurately maintain logs, records, and technical documentation.
• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to handle varied situations where standard procedures may be limited.
• Effective planning and organizational skills with the ability to anticipate work activities and operational needs.
• Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and well‑organized work environment.
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Provide leadership and technical guidance to other employees on refrigeration‑related matters.
• Ability and willingness to work overtime, weekends, any shift, and some holidays.

**PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:**

• Prior experience working in a food manufacturing or cold storage facility.
• Basic computer proficiency (e.g. email, spreadsheets, maintenance tracking systems).
• Prior experience leading, mentoring, or training operating engineers or maintenance staff.
• Strong understanding of preventive maintenance programs and continuous improvement practices.
• Can specify, requisition, and manage parts and materials inventory.
• Adaptability to changing operational conditions, schedules, and priorities.

*Work Environment:* Regularly works in wet and/or humid conditions, chilled environment and/or heat. Frequently work in outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

*Physical Demands:* Regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or con