The Senior Refrigeration Technician – Marine Chillers and Compressors is responsible for the leadership, advanced troubleshooting, and maintenance of complex marine refrigeration systems including chillers, compressors, and associated HVAC cooling equipment. This role involves managing system diagnostics, overseeing repairs, guiding junior staff, and ensuring compliance with all maritime safety, environmental, and classification standards. The senior technician ensures optimal performance, reliability, and longevity of refrigeration systems critical to vessel operations.
Lead and perform comprehensive inspection, maintenance, and repair of marine refrigeration systems including centrifugal, screw, and reciprocating chillers and compressors.
Diagnose and resolve complex faults related to refrigerant leaks, compressor failures, control system malfunctions, and thermal inefficiencies.
Manage refrigerant handling activities including recovery, recycling, recharging, and leak mitigation in compliance with environmental regulations such as MARPOL Annex VI and F-Gas legislation.
Supervise and mentor mid-level and junior technicians, providing technical guidance and on-the-job training.
Coordinate with HVAC engineers, project managers, and classification society inspectors during commissioning, dry-dock repairs, and routine surveys.
Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs, predictive diagnostics, and equipment reliability improvement plans.
Ensure proper documentation of all maintenance work, inspections, test results, and compliance records.
Review technical manuals, OEM specifications, and system schematics to plan and execute maintenance and repair work.
Collaborate with control and automation teams to integrate refrigeration systems into overall HVAC and BMS frameworks.
Participate in safety meetings and enforce adherence to onboard safety procedures, confined space entry protocols, and risk mitigation strategies.
Technical Leadership & Troubleshooting
– Provide expert-level technical support and guidance on refrigeration system performance and failures.
System Reliability & Compliance
– Ensure all refrigeration equipment meets operational standards and environmental compliance.
Team Management & Development
– Mentor junior staff and lead the refrigeration maintenance team effectively.
Documentation & Coordination
– Maintain comprehensive maintenance records and coordinate with multi-disciplinary teams and classification bodies.
Diploma, Technical Certification, or Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, HVAC/Refrigeration Technology, or equivalent.
7+ years of hands-on refrigeration experience with at least 4 years in marine or offshore environments.
In-depth knowledge of marine refrigeration systems, chiller types, compressors, refrigeration cycles, and associated control systems.
Proficient with diagnostic tools including refrigerant leak detectors, digital manifold gauges, vacuum pumps, oil analyzers, and electronic test instruments.
Strong familiarity with classification society requirements (ABS, DNV, Lloyd’s Register), IMO regulations, and environmental standards (MARPOL, F-Gas).
Proven experience leading maintenance teams and coordinating with cross-functional departments.
Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to perform under pressure in confined and harsh environments.
Effective communication skills for reporting, training, and client interaction.
Valid STCW, BOSIET, or equivalent offshore safety certifications preferred.
Refrigerant handling certification (EPA 608, F-Gas, or equivalent).
Experience with advanced refrigeration technologies such as variable-speed compressors, magnetic bearings, or eco-friendly refrigerants.
Familiarity with HVAC automation, PLC programming, and BMS integration.
Prior experience on specialized vessels like LNG carriers, cruise ships, FPSOs, or naval ships.