Refrigeration Technician

SUMMARY:
At The President Hotel, reliable refrigeration keeps our kitchens running smoothly, protects food quality and supports exceptional dining experiences. We are looking for an experienced Refrigeration Technician to maintain and repair commercial refrigeration and cooling equipment across our busy 349-room hotel in Bantry Bay, Cape Town. As we continue our journey toward luxury, you will help ensure our restaurants, kitchens and operational areas have safe, efficient and reliable refrigeration systems. This opportunity suits a hands-on technician with strong diagnostic skills who takes pride in quality workmanship and responds confidently to breakdowns.

POSITION INFO:
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Relevant trade qualification or recognised certification in Refrigeration, HVAC, Air Conditioning or Mechanical Engineering. Minimum 2-4 years of relevant experience as a Refrigeration Technician. Proven experience maintaining and repairing commercial or industrial refrigeration systems. Experience within a hotel, hospitality establishment, hospital, retail, food production, commercial property or similar large-scale environment is highly advantageous. Experience with cold rooms, chillers, freezers, refrigerators and ice machines is advantageous. Strong knowledge of refrigerants, compressors, condensers, evaporators and cooling technology. Good understanding of refrigeration controls, thermostats and associated electrical components. Strong fault-finding, diagnostic and problem-solving skills. Ability to interpret technical diagrams, equipment manuals and manufacturer specifications. Experience with planned and preventative maintenance. Knowledge of health, safety and environmental requirements, including safe refrigerant and chemical handling. Ability to use refrigeration tools, gauges and testing equipment safely and correctly. Strong attention to detail, organisation and time management. Ability to work independently, meet deadlines and communicate effectively within a multidisciplinary Maintenance team. Availability to work shifts, weekends, public holidays and emergency call-outs. A professional, reliable and accountable approach to work. Valid South African ID. Updated CV with relevant trade qualifications and contactable references. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Install, commission, service, maintain and repair commercial refrigeration and cooling equipment throughout the hotel. Maintain cold rooms, chillers, freezers, refrigerators and ice machines supporting kitchens, restaurants and food storage areas. Complete planned maintenance and routine inspections to identify potential faults before breakdowns occur. Diagnose faults involving compressors, condensers, evaporators, thermostats, controls and related components. Test equipment performance and maintain required temperatures, operating efficiency and reliability. Respond promptly to breakdowns and coordinate with Kitchen, Food and Beverage and other departments to minimise disruption. Identify opportunities to improve equipment performance and energy efficiency. Handle, store and manage refrigerants and chemicals safely, following health, safety and environmental procedures. Use personal protective equipment correctly and maintain clean, organised and safe work areas. Complete job cards, inspection reports and maintenance records, and update the hotel maintenance management system. Report recurring faults and potential equipment replacement requirements to maintenance leadership. Support the wider Maintenance team during emergencies and busy operational periods within your skills and experience. Uphold our values of Teamwork, Respect, Innovation, Accountability, Passion and Integrity. WHY JOIN THE PRESIDENT HOTEL Join The President Hotel, known as the Most Loved Hotel in Cape Town, and be part of our journey toward luxury. Apply your refrigeration expertise alongside experienced maintenance professionals while supporting the reliability, efficiency and daily operation of a busy hotel. We offer a competitive salary, company contributions toward benefits and an outstanding team culture where you can contribute, grow and feel part of the team.