Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers

Install and repair industrial and commercial refrigerating systems.

Median Annual Wage: $44,630

Education: Post-secondary certificate (56%); Some college, no degree (22%); Associate's degree (12%)

Projected Growth: Faster than average (15% to 21%)

Related Job Titles: Service Technician; Refrigeration Mechanic; Refrigeration Technician; Refrigeration Operator; Transportation Refrigeration Technician; Ammonia Refrigeration Technician; Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning Service Technician (HVAC Service Technician); Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning Technician (HVAC Technician); Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning / Refrigeration Technician (HVAC / R Technician); HVAC/R Service Technician (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Service Technician)

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers.

More Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Careers

  • Observe and test system operation, using gauges and instruments.
  • Test lines, components, and connections for leaks.
  • Dismantle malfunctioning systems and test components, using electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic testing equipment.
  • Adjust or replace worn or defective mechanisms and parts and reassemble repaired systems.
  • Braze or solder parts to repair defective joints and leaks.
  • Perform mechanical overhauls and refrigerant reclaiming.
  • Keep records of repairs and replacements made and causes of malfunctions.
  • Install expansion and control valves, using acetylene torches and wrenches.
  • Mount compressor, condenser, and other components in specified locations on frames, using hand tools and acetylene welding equipment.
  • Install wiring to connect components to an electric power source.
  • Schedule work with customers and initiate work orders, house requisitions, and orders from stock.
  • Supervise and instruct assistants.
  • Estimate, order, pick up, deliver, and install materials and supplies needed to maintain equipment in good working condition.
  • Cut, bend, thread, and connect pipe to functional components and water, power, or refrigeration system.
  • Lay out reference points for installation of structural and functional components, using measuring instruments.
  • Read blueprints to determine location, size, capacity, and type of components needed to build refrigeration system.
  • Lift and align components into position, using hoist or block and tackle.
  • Fabricate and assemble structural and functional components of refrigeration system, using hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment.
  • Drill holes and install mounting brackets and hangers into floor and walls of building.
  • Insulate shells and cabinets of systems.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers.

  • Equipment Maintenance - Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
  • Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  • Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
  • Installation - Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  • Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
  • Equipment Selection - Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers.

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