Refrigeration Engineer 2026 - Alaska General Seafoods

Alaska General Seafoods Ketchikan

Refrigeration Engineer

Union Machinist Position

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 1-2 years of experience working with ammonia refrigeration systems, preferably in a seafood processing or industrial setting.
• Certifications: Ammonia Refrigeration Technician certification or equivalent is required

• Technical Skills: Strong mechanical aptitude and familiarity with electrical systems, plumbing, and control systems related to refrigeration. This position is crucial for ensuring the efficient and safe operation of our ammonia refrigeration systems during the peak processing season.
• Problem-Solving: Excellent troubleshooting skills with the ability to quickly identify and resolve issues under pressure. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing refrigeration equipment to guarantee optimal performance and compliance with safety regulations.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift ~ 50 lbs, bending, standing, and moving throughout the day, maneuver heavy equipment, work in confined spaces, and handle the physical demands of the job. This role involves working on your feet for long hours, both indoors and outdoors.

• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively document work and collaborate with team members.
• Availability: Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, during the peak processing season. Workdays and shift times will vary with seafood deliveries and other factors. Must be available late-May to early-September. Must be able to work 12-16 Hours per day, 7 days per week.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintenance and Repairs: Assist in routine service, pre/post season maintenance, and repair with Operator 2’s, Contractors or Refrigeration Technicians. Perform routine maintenance and emergency repairs on ammonia refrigeration systems, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, and related equipment. Assist in scheduled Mechanical Integrity Inspections, weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc.
• System Monitoring: Assist in operating the system following plant operating and maintenance procedures. Continuously monitor refrigeration systems to ensure they are operating within established parameters, and promptly address any deviations or malfunctions. Diagnose and resolve mechanical and electrical issues in the refrigeration system to minimize downtime and ensure production efficiency

• Safety Compliance: Adhere to all safety protocols and regulatory requirements, including handling ammonia safely and maintaining proper documentation. Follow all safety protocols and procedures to maintain a safe work environment, including wearing appropriate safety gear and reporting hazards.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, repairs, and system performance for future reference and regulatory compliance. Ensure daily system logs are documented and turned in.

• Team Collaboration: Work closely with other technicians, engineers, and production staff to ensure seamless operation of the refrigeration systems and support overall production goals. Assist supervisors in pre/post season parts/ supply inventories. Assist and train Refrigeration Assistants in day-to-day activities.

• Compensation: DOE and per Union. This is an hourly position that is eligible for overtime pay. Extensive overtime is frequently required with total workdays up to 16 hours
• Benefits: Transportation to and from the plant, meals and housing provided.

A successful candidate will have:

• Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize workload.
• Ability to carry oneself in a professional manner away from work, representing Alaska General Seafoods on and off the clock.
• Strong work ethic, with prompt and reliable attendance, ability to work well under pressure repeatedly for 12+ hrs. a day, 7 days a week.
• Must have the flexibility to work fluctuating shifts structured around a 24-hr production schedule as needed.
• Willingness to take on new tasks to assist the team and grow one’s mechanical knowledge of the facility.