Refrigeration Engineer

Job Description:

Sovereign, a national supplier of quality chicken products to various markets with operations in five provinces, is seeking a thorough and committed individual for the position of Refrigeration Engineer in the Commercial division. This position reports directly to the Plant Manager. The Refrigeration Engineer will be responsible for providing leadership and direction in Refrigeration and air conditioning at the Uitenhage Abattoir. The ideal candidate must be in possession of Refrigeration & Air-conditioning/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering Degree/Diploma and 8-10 years’ experience. A minimum of 3 years’ experience ammonia safe handling as Category B and managing a team is essential. This position carries a TASK grade of T14.

Responsibilities:

• Drive continuous improvement and maximize availability of all production related assets.
• Establish sound discipline and control around the order, receipt and issuing of any/all refrigeration inventory.
• Manage and perform route cause analysis on re-occurring breakdowns and implement measures to eliminate reoccurrences.
• Control costs in line with the approved budget.
• Developing refrigeration team and managing talent within the department.
• Ensure that assets are optimally cared for and maintained to the highest standards.
• Manage quality and feedback of preventative maintenance work in accordance with the scheduled program.

Qualifications:

• Good Leadership skills.
• Good Project Management skills.
• Sound ammonia safe handling experience.
• Excellent technical abilities.
• Good Cost Control capabilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Closing Date: 15 July 2025

As Sovereign is an equal opportunity employer, preference will be given to applicants of designated groups, as defined by the Employment Equity Act.