Ammonia Refrigeration Tech

Chicago Meat Authority (CMA) is proud to have celebrated 34 years in the food industry. Located in Chicago’s historic Stockyards, CMA is a forward thinking processor of value added beef, pork, and poultry items with a strong focus on selling the Healthcare, Hotel, and Institutional Markets (HRI), meat purveyors, and Multi-unit regional and national chains up to and including big box stores. In addition, CMA specializes in custom cuts for further processors including but not limited to grinding operations, deli manufacturers, and the prepared entrée market.

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Ammonia Refrigeration Technician to oversee and support the operation of our Ammonia Refrigeration System. This role is essential in maintaining process efficiency, ensuring regulatory compliance, and upholding the highest safety standards in our facility.

You will coordinate daily operations of the ammonia refrigeration system, collaborate with the Maintenance Supervisor on PSM/RMP program management, and support the mechanical integrity of our plant systems.

What you get to do / Responsibilities

• Supervise daily operations of ammonia refrigeration, HVAC, boilers, thermal oxidizers, compressed air, and electrical systems.
• Ensure uninterrupted utility support to meet production demands.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and plumbing issues.
• Analyze refrigeration and equipment performance for efficiency and reliability.
• Operate and monitor ammonia systems and mechanical room equipment.
• Develop and maintain preventive and corrective maintenance procedures.
• Maintain accurate operational records and ensure GMP and safety compliance.
• Support emergency response related to hazardous chemical incidents.
• Collaborate with vendors to ensure equipment performance and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment.
• Assist with Process Safety Management (PSM) and Risk Management Program (RMP) program management and audits.
• Update Process Safety Information (PSI) and participate in safety incident investigations.
• Ensure timely training, documentation, and regulatory reporting.
• Contribute to training initiatives and maintenance process improvements.
• Support maintenance and operational teams as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Maintenance Supervisor.

What we want from you/ Qualification

•  Technical school degree or equivalent trade training in mechanical engineering, HVAC, refrigeration, or related discipline.
• Minimum 2–3 years of manufacturing experience, preferably in the food industry.
• At least 3 years of hands-on experience in vocational trades such as HVAC, electrical, electronics, or mechanical work.
• Deep understanding of ammonia refrigeration systems and boiler operations.
• Strong knowledge of OSHA safety regulations, PSM/RMP compliance, and mechanical integrity principles.
• Ability to troubleshoot and repair industrial systems efficiently.
• Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills.

 

What we value /Skills

• Dependability.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• The ability to be capable of upholding all safety and work rules, policies and procedures.

 

Work Environment

•  Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to varying temperatures (cold and warm).
• Must wear appropriate PPE and follow all plant safety protocols.
•  Use of standard office equipment and mechanical tools is required.
•  Physical activity such as standing, walking, and occasional lifting is expected.

 

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $30 to $40 per hour, based on experience.

 

Benefits and Perks

Benefits:

• Health Benefits
• Pension
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays 

Employee Perks:

• Meat Purchase Program

We are Winning When

We follow and are guided by our mission and we demonstrate our values every day!
"To be the preferred supplier of our customers, the preferred customer of our strategic suppliers, and a model employer in our industry.”

Chicago Meat Authority, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.