Journey-Level Refrigeration Technician
Alternate Title: Refrigeration Service Technician, Refrigeration Mechanic, HVAC/R Technician, Journeyman Refrigeration Technician
Journey-Level Refrigeration Technician

Upon successful completion of an apprenticeship program, the Journey-Level Refrigeration Technician will install, repair, overhaul and perform preventive maintenance on refrigeration systems of commercial and industrial buildings and manufacturing plants will little or no supervision.

The Journey-Level Refrigeration Technician performs breakdown and preventive maintenance of critical refrigeration equipment on a regular basis, many times in large commercial buildings or industrial plants. They are responsible for repairing refrigeration systems, lower and normal temperature cold storage equipment, and maintain refrigerant records in compliance with US EPA and SCAQMD mandated refrigeration record keeping. Their work includes, but is not limited to, process chillers, HVAC air handlers, central chillers, pumps and equipment and industrial control systems. Journey-Level Refrigeration Technicians become familiar with building automation systems and their components, and mechanical and electrical equipment. They gain knowledge of pumps, piping, plumbing components, electrical controls, compressors, vacuum pumps, and sanitary piping.

Advancement Routes

Job Type

Commercial

Salary Range

Wages identified under each occupation of the Careers in Climate Control Technology Map show a wide range due to (1) the geographic differences in the cost of living in California, and (2) that many occupations in the HVAC/R industry provide incentive-based pay programs.

$80,000 - $150,000; $40-$75/hr

Required Education & Training

Completion of an approved HVAC/R apprenticeship earning an industry recognized Journey-Level Certification

Preferred Education & Training

Additional Post-Secondary Technical Training

Recognized Certifications:
EPA 608, HVAC Excellence, NATE, OSHA 10 or OSHA 30

Work Experience

5+ years

Skills & Requirements

  • Strong knowledge of the tools and techniques used to maintain, diagnose problems, and repair refrigeration systems and associated electrical systems
  • Knowledge of refrigeration, electrical, microprocessor, and pneumatic control systems
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints and schematics
  • Ability to interpret diagrams, drawings and equipment manuals
  • Ability to braze and weld
  • Proficient in the safe use of hand and power tools
  • Ability to work at heights and on ladders
  • Proficient with computers
  • Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Demonstrate ability and willingness to take on responsibility and leadership roles
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
  • Ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Valid driver's license and insurable driving record
  • May be required to pass a drug test
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