Refrigeration Technician - OnBoard

SUMMARY

The Refrigeration technician is responsible for maintaining and managing all HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) and refrigeration systems on board an ultra-luxury ocean-going yacht. This position ensures that all systems, including air conditioning, ventilation, cooling systems, and hotel equipment, operate at optimal efficiency and maintaining the highest standards of comfort for guests and crew. The role requires collaboration with both technical and hotel management teams to meet the specific needs of the yacht's operational environment..

DESIRED SKILL AND CAPABILITIES:

People Management:

· Ability to collaborate with the team, including engineers, technicians, and hotel department staff, to ensure smooth operations.

Guest Experience Excellence:

• A strong focus on ensuring that refrigeration and HVAC systems contribute to an exceptional guest experience.

Profit and Operational Oversight:

• Ability to maintain equipment and systems efficiently to minimize downtime and repair costs, while ensuring optimal performance.

Quality and Compliance:

• Knowledge of industry regulations and standards related to refrigeration, HVAC, and health/safety protocols.

Strategic Planning and Innovation:

· Ability to assist in the strategic planning of maintenance tasks, and identify potential areas for system improvements.

Yacht Integration:

• Familiarity with yacht-specific systems and operational needs to ensure seamless integration of technical systems into the overall yacht experience.

Education

· Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Facility Management, or equivalent vocational training with a technician degree.

Experience:

· Knowledge of HVAC systems, refrigeration systems, and other mechanical systems aboard yachts is essential.

· Previous experience working with HVAC and refrigeration systems, preferably aboard luxury yachts or similar high-end vessels.

· Familiarity with the maintenance and repair of air conditioning, refrigeration, and other hotel equipment.

· Knowledge of welding, brazing, plumbing, and basic electrical systems.

· Experience in faultfinding, analyzing, and repairing mechanical systems, with an understanding of pipe and electrical diagrams.

Willingness to work aboard the yacht and travel internationally, often for extended periods of time.

Outcomes

Refrigeration Systems Operation and Maintenance

· Support the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of the yacht’s refrigeration systems, including compressor units, piping systems, and refrigeration units in various areas (provision storage rooms, freezers, refrigerators, ice machines, beverage dispensing systems).

· Monitor and maintain proper storage temperatures in chilled and freezer rooms, ensuring compliance with safety and operational standards.

· Perform regular alarm tests and calibration of chilled room and freezer room thermometers.

· Record and address any refrigerant leakages, taking corrective actions as required.

· Assist in the maintenance and repair of ice machines, beverage dispensing refrigeration systems, and other cooling equipment.

Ventilation and HVAC Systems Operation and Maintenance

· Support the operation and maintenance of HVAC systems, including air conditioning, ventilation, and room air quality in all compartments of the yacht.

· Supervise and monitor HVAC system parameters to ensure smooth and efficient performance.

· Conduct planned maintenance on air conditioning units, air ducts, and supply/exhaust fans, ensuring compliance with operational standards.

· Assist in the maintenance of fire dampers and ensure proper operation of ventilation systems in the engine room and cabins.

· Perform daily machinery ventilation inspections as part of TEC 1102 and report any issues to the First Refrigeration Engineer.

General Maintenance Duties

· Assist with the maintenance of equipment and systems in galleys, bars, pantries, spas, and laundries, including troubleshooting and repair of defects in coordination with the Electrician Officer Hotel.

· Support plumbing and sewage system inspections, including vacuum toilets, treatment plants, fresh water distribution, and gray water systems, helping to evaluate and resolve issues.

· Participate in the management of the Planned Maintenance System (PMS) for HVAC and refrigeration systems, ensuring all tasks are completed on time and logged accurately.

· Assist with the procurement and inventory management of spare parts and consumables for refrigeration and HVAC systems, ensuring proper delivery and storage.

Safety and Compliance

· Follow all relevant safety and health protocols (HESS) and contribute to maintaining a safe environment for guests and crew.

· Assist in maintaining compliance with GLOBAL-HESS, PMS, USPH, and other relevant regulations and guidelines.

· Participate in safety duties as instructed by the First Refrigeration Engineer or superior managers.

· Ensure all work complies with the highest standards of hygiene and safety, particularly in food-related environments like galleys and pantries.

Guest Experience Support

· Ensure that refrigeration and HVAC systems contribute to maintaining a comfortable, luxurious environment for guests aboard the yacht.

· Assist in ensuring guest areas such as dining rooms, lounges, and cabins are kept at optimal temperatures and have appropriate air quality.

· Work collaboratively with the Hotel Director to ensure that technical systems meet guest expectations for comfort and luxury.

Operational Efficiency

· Support the operational oversight of refrigeration and HVAC systems, identifying and addressing potential issues before they impact guest comfort or operational efficiency.

· Independently carry out assigned duties and troubleshoot technical issues as they arise.

Health and Safety Culture

· Actively support the yacht’s health and safety culture by following all procedures and regulations.

· Report any violations of health procedures to the Head of Department, ensuring compliance with company health standards and the prevention of disease spread.

Leadership:

Ability to support the team and lead by example in ensuring smooth operations.

Guest-Centric Focus:

Prioritize guest comfort and satisfaction through exceptional technical support.

Problem-Solving:

Strong troubleshooting skills to address technical issues quickly and effectively.

Innovative Thinking:

Able to suggest and implement improvements to systems and processes.

Attention to Detail:

Focus on maintaining systems to the highest standards of performance and safety.