Large Environmentally Controlled Chambers Commissioning & Start-Up Technician Position Overview We are seeking an autonomous, highly skilled Commissioning & Start-Up Technician to lead the field deployment of our custom-built refrigeration systems and large environmentally controlled chambers. Because our high-capacity systems are custom-engineered and cannot be fully pre-tested in the factory, you will be the critical link to ensure a safe, efficient, and successful first-time startup at customer facilities. This role requires a unique blend of heavy industrial HVAC/R mechanical mastery, industrial electrical troubleshooting, and the ability to interface directly with PLC automation software.
Travel:
Up to 70% (Domestic and/or International)
Location:
Field-Based / Remote with travel to job sites.
Key Responsibilities System Commissioning & Start-Up:
Lead the physical startup, fluid charging, tuning, and optimization of custom industrial refrigeration systems and large-scale chambers at client sites.
Mechanical & Thermal Validation:
Verify piping installation against P&IDs, perform high-pressure nitrogen drop tests, pull deep vacuums, manage oil loops, and safely charge industrial refrigerants.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Inspect and troubleshoot industrial control panels, 480V 3-phase power distribution, VFDs, and 24V DC control loops (including 4-20mA pressure transducers and temperature RTDs).
PLC Controls & Automation:
Connect to Allen-Bradley CompactLogix controllers using Studio 5000 / RSLogix 5000. Go online to verify I/O, adjust timers, tune PID loops, change sensor scaling, and perform minor logic modifications to match field conditions.
Software Operation:
Utilize LabVIEW-based software platforms to monitor system behavior, track data logs, configure operating setpoints, and diagnose system anomalies (no LabVIEW programming required).
Documentation & Sign-off:
Complete rigorous commissioning checklists, document field deviations, and provide basic operational training to end-user facility engineers.
Required Qualifications Education:
A.S. Degree in Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, Electromechanical Technology, or Commercial/Industrial HVAC/R. Equivalent military or trade experience will be highly considered.
Experience:
3-5+ years of hands-on experience commissioning, servicing, or starting up large industrial refrigeration equipment (screw/reciprocating compressors, large evaporators, chillers).
Proven capability to navigate Studio 5000/RSLogix 5000 to perform basic online troubleshooting and minor PLC edits. Comfort navigating data-heavy PC-based software (like LabVIEW).
Blueprint Literacy:
Expert ability to read and interpret mechanical schematics, P&IDs, and electrical ladder diagrams.
Mindset:
Exceptional field autonomy and troubleshooting capabilities. Comfortable resolving complex engineering ambiguities on-site without standard instruction manuals. Physical Requirements & Working Conditions Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs, climb ladders, and work comfortably inside large-scale industrial freezer environments. Flexibility to work extended hours during critical commissioning windows to meet client production deadlines.
Pay:
$33.00 - $48.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 - 60.0 per week
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
Education:
High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Experience:
HVAC/R and or Electrical:
3 years (Preferred)
Language:
English (Preferred) Willingness to travel: 75% (Preferred)