Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary

Step into a leadership role that keeps critical systems running safely and reliably. As a Refrigeration and Utilities Lead, you will provide hands on support for ammonia refrigeration and utilities operations while guiding and mentoring a team of technicians to deliver strong maintenance performance. You will drive a culture of continuous improvement, strengthen system reliability, and promote a proactive, safety-first environment across the facility. This role is ideal for an experienced technician who is ready to lead, influence, and elevate utilities operations while making a meaningful impact on plant performance and safety.

Schedule:  2nd Shift: Monday through Friday, 6:00pm-6:00am. Weekends/Saturdays as business needs dictate. 

Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities

·Associates in this classification may perform highly technically complex tasks and decision-making while overseeing a team of Refrigeration/Utilities Technicians, which is typically attained through the Refrigeration/Utilities Technician III classification and certification.

·Must be able to demonstrate/achieve and maintain Refrigeration/Utilities Technician III proficiency within 10 months of hire.

·Leads team to deliver all planned work assigned.

·In collaboration with the supervisors, provides real time direction to the associates on the team in accordance with the organization's policies and procedures.

·Coaches, mentors, and guides the team daily, including assisting with new hire onboarding.

·Supports a team that promotes Perdue Values and Leadership Behaviors.

·In collaboration with the supervisor, leads associates to meet the organization's expectations for productivity, quality, continuous improvement, and goal accomplishment.

·Plans and allocate real time resources to effectively staff and accomplish the work to meet departmental productivity and quality goals.

·Plans evaluate and improve the efficiency of business processes and procedures to enhance speed, quality, efficiency, and output.

·Establishes, maintains relevant controls, and feedback systems to monitor the operation of the department.

·Learns and observes all safety precautions as required by Perdue.

·Maintains records and prepares clear and concise oral and written reports.

·Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing.

·Works all required work schedules.

Minimum Education and Experience

·High School Diploma or GED.

·5-8 Years experience in Industrial maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs on Mechanical and Electrical Equipment, and/or Equivalent Military Experience.

·Expert proficiency in Hydraulics, Mechanics, Electrical concepts, and refrigeration/utilities systems. Intermediate Proficiency with PLC.

·Commitment to Continuous Learning to achieve increasing levels of expertise.

·High proficiency in computers and web-based applications.

·Safety and Hazard Training (OSHA Hazardous Material Technician).

·Hold RETA Operator Lvl I/CARO & RETA Operator Lvl II/CIRO Certification and maintain certifications through RETA continuous education standards.

·Maintain the Perdue Farms QEW Certification.

Preferred Education and Experience

·2-year Technical Degree in Engineering or Industrial Maintenance.

·Incident Commander Training.

·Line Leadership experience.

·Other Certifications (i.e. Steam Boiler Operations, Steam Boiler Safety) are a plus.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

·Sitting, standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, reaching overhead and/or at shoulder level, lifting (50 lbs.) and/or repetitive tasks throughout the day.

·Position requires occasional moving to other offices or buildings.

·Day travel to nearby locations is sometimes required.

When in a plant environment:

·Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.

·May be exposed to temperatures of 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with both ambient and 100% humidity.

·May handle products from 25 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

·May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 db. to 110 db.

·May be exposed to all chemicals used in poultry, food, processing plant.

·May need to access files, supplies, and equipment.

·Must wear and use protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company.

·Must be able to pass a physical test, pulmonary test, SCBA fit test, and meet the requirements of a HAZMAT Team Member annually.

There are periodic Checks:

·Associates may be required to participate in regular fit tests when respirators are necessary.

·Comply with all federal, state and company safety requirements related to ammonia, confined space training, i.e., CPR/FA.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.