Refrigeration Operator (T/V Hannah)

SUMMARY

Northline Seafoods is seeking a Refrigeration Operator. This position is responsible for overseeing the maintenance and operation of the refrigeration system onboard the Hannah, as well as supervising general maintenance of mechanical and electrical systems. The role may also include off-season work in the final processing and production of Bristol Bay salmon in Bellingham, WA. This is a position aboard a stationary floating processing facility anchored near Dillingham, AK.   

Travel Requirement: As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant identification is required for domestic air travel, including flights to Alaska. Candidates must meet this requirement prior to hire.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Refrigeration Operations & Maintenance

• Control and supervision of cold storage systems
• Control and supervision of ice production
• Coordinate with production to anticipate and respond to refrigeration and ice needs
• Respond to equipment malfunctions and unplanned downtime
• Assist with spiral freezer upgrades
• Monitor and execute defrost cycles for evaporators and related equipment
• Perform general refrigeration system maintenance and troubleshooting
  • Replace or repair faulty valves, evaporator fans, and related components

Adjacent System Operations & Maintenance

• Source and procure replacement components and parts
• Control and supervision of related mechanical and electrical systems
  • Ice feedwater systems
  • Condenser pumps
• Perform general maintenance on related mechanical and electrical systems, including:
  • Cold storage temperature sensors
  • Freezer doors
  • Lighting and ventilation systems
• Perform small system upgrades, such as:
  • PVC plumbing modifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 18+ years old
• Authorized to work in the U.S.
• 2+ years of hands-on experience operating and maintaining industrial refrigeration systems (ammonia or CO preferred).
• Experience in food processing, cold storage, marine, or heavy industrial environments.
• Familiarity with compressors, condensers, evaporators, pumps, valves, and control systems.
• Ability to perform routine inspections, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on refrigeration equipment.
• Understanding of refrigeration principles, heat transfer, and thermodynamics fundamentals.
• Ability to read P&IDs, mechanical drawings, and equipment manuals.
• Basic electrical and control troubleshooting skills.
• Knowledge of industrial safety practices, lockout/tagout (LOTO), confined space awareness, and PPE use.
• Experience working with or around ammonia refrigeration systems and associated hazards.
• Ability to respond to alarms and emergency situations in a calm and effective manner.
• Ability to work aboard a vessel for extended periods (rotational schedule).
• Ability to climb ladders, work in cold/freezer environments, and lift 50 lbs.
• Willingness to work long hours, including nights and weekends, during production seasons.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license or ability to obtain required transportation credentials.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Industrial ammonia refrigeration certifications (operator level or higher).
• Maritime or vessel experience (factory trawler, processor, or shipboard engineering).
• Experience with automated control systems (PLC/HMI/SCADA).
• Prior experience in seafood processing or food manufacturing.
• Mechanical trade background (millwright, marine engineer, HVAC/R technician, or similar).
• EPA refrigerant handling certification.
• Welding, fabrication, or pipefitting experience.
• Basic computer skills for maintenance logs and reporting systems (CMMS).
• Leadership experience or ability to supervise helpers/trainees.
• Coast Guard credentials or marine safety training.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described below are representative of those required for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

This position operates primarily aboard a stationary floating processing facility anchored near Dillingham, AK, and periodically at the dock in Bellingham, WA. The role routinely involves the use of tools, freezers, conveying systems, forklifts, and fish processing equipment. Employees must be able to stand, walk, climb, and navigate a wet and cold barge environment for extended periods of time. The position requires working in tight spaces and performing tasks that involve bending, crouching, kneeling, and reaching. Employees must be able to lift up to 50 pounds independently and up to 100 pounds with assistance.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

Employment with Northline Seafoods is at will. This means that either the employee or Northline Seafoods may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.

DISCLAIMER

The above is not intended to list all possible essential functions or requirements as they are subject to change. The employer reserves the right to revise or change this description. This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each of the above essential duties and meet the physical demands. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to meet these.

Northline Seafoods is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, veteran or disability status.