Refrigeration Engineer Jobs

Refrigeration engineers are trained to work with refrigeration systems for a variety of uses. A professional refrigeration engineer must be licensed and have thorough knowledge of codes and regulations, and know how to properly handle hazardous substances. In order to advance in this profession, a refrigeration engineer may consider certifications offered by engineering societies.

Nature of Refrigeration Engineer Job

• Refrigeration engineers design refrigeration systems for commercial manufacturers. They also design and oversee the production of refrigeration systems used for residential and industrial use. Some of these include restaurant units, refrigerated healthcare equipment and insulated trucks or trailers. Refrigeration engineers also troubleshoot problems with these systems.


• A refrigeration engineer with a bachelor’s degree will be trained in refrigeration and air conditioning systems, energy systems, piping, pressure vessels, plant engineering and automotive design. Part of their college course work will include drafting, heat transfer, gas laws, electric power systems and instrumentation.

Job and Educational Requirements

• Refrigeration Engineers must obtain a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from an accredited university.


• All states require engineers who offer services to the public to be licensed as Professional Engineers. In order to qualify for this license, it is necessary to have a 4-year engineering degree, four years of relevant work experience and a state examination must be completed.  Most mechanical engineers, including refrigeration engineers, are licensed.


• Must have knowledge of thermodynamics, computer-aided design or CAD systems, and know how to properly handle potentially hazardous materials such as Freon.


• Knowledge of EPA codes and regulations regarding refrigeration systems.


• Engineers must be creative, methodical, analytical, detail oriented, a team player and a problem solver. They must also have good communication skills, both orally and written.

Job Outlook for Refrigeration Engineers

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects overall engineering jobs to grow by 11% between 2008 and 2018.


• As of May 2008, the median salary for mechanical engineers was $74,920. This may also apply to refrigeration engineers, as they are basically mechanical engineers.


• To improve their opportunities of job advancement, refrigeration engineers should consider certification offered by professional societies, such as the Engineering Management Certification International designation from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.