Refrigeration Technician

Job Purpose

The Refrigeration Technician is responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, servicing, repairing, and maintaining refrigeration systems and equipment to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations in accordance with company standards, relevant legislation, and safety requirements.

Principal Accountabilities

• Perform maintenance, fault-finding, and repairs on all refrigeration systems and equipment to support smooth and safe plant operations.
• Per the Preventative Maintenance Schedule, conduct daily checks on refrigeration systems, including compressors, chillers, condensers, and plant rooms.
• Operate hand and power tools safely and competently during maintenance activities.
• Complete scheduled maintenance activities and support planned shutdown interventions.
• Maintain and store tools and equipment safely and ensure a clean, organized working environment.
• Comply with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Health & Safety standards, and regulations when handling refrigerants (e.g., R404A).
• Support senior Refrigeration Technicians with complex maintenance and installations.
• Ensure refrigeration plant areas remain clean, safe, and hazard-free at all times.
• Perform lubrication tasks and check oil levels on relevant systems according to specifications.
• Assist with breakdown repairs, including standby duty, overtime, and weekend work when required.
• Perform basic auxiliary tasks such as replacing light fittings where required.
• Comply with Food Safety, Quality, and environmental requirements in line with company policies and food safety standards.

Qualifications & Experience

• Refrigeration Trade test with 2 – 5 years of experience as a Refrigeration Technician
• Experience with cold rooms, freezer rooms, commercial refrigeration, and domestic air-conditioning systems
• Knowledge of spiral freezers and plant room operations
• Basic understanding of electrical wiring and associated equipment

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong technical and mechanical knowledge with proven fault-finding and diagnostic ability.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and engineering drawings.
• Solid problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and commitment to quality artistry.
• Good communication, teamwork, and reporting skills.
• Self-motivated, reliable, and able to work independently under pressure.
• Physically fit and willing to work standby shifts when required.
• Strong planning, organizational, and safety awareness skills.
• Committed to reliability, continuous improvement, and high work standards.

Attributes

Attention to detail

Action orientation

Planning and organising

Team work

Customer Focus

Additional Information

Air Chefs SOC Ltd is a premium food solutions company with over 40 years of experience. A

wholly owned subsidiary of South African Airways, we are uniquely positioned to deliver

exceptional food and hospitality services across air, corporate, and event sectors.

With three strategically located operational units in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban,

we have the capacity to produce over 50 000 meals daily, serving domestic and international

airlines, airport lounges, events, and corporate canteens.