Reefer Technician

Reefer Technician

POSITION SUMMARY

The Reefer Technician is responsible for executing essential reefer-yard operations to ensure the safe connection, monitoring, inspection, and operational readiness of refrigerated containers. This position serves as the initial point of response for temperature monitoring, alarm identification, plug/unplug tasks, basic troubleshooting, routine maintenance, and Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) execution.

This role plays a critical part in maintaining cold-chain integrity by ensuring that reefer units are consistently powered, monitored, documented, and promptly escalated in case of any abnormal conditions or temperature fluctuations. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Carry out scheduled and reactive temperature monitoring of refrigerated containers.
• Confirm container identification, location, cargo status, setpoint, supply and return temperatures, operating mode, ventilation settings, and alarm status.
• Execute plug and unplug operations at reefer towers, racks, yard stacks, temporary reefer areas, and other authorized locations.
• Inspect reefer plugs, cables, receptacles, lock nuts, interlocks, tower lighting, and the visible condition of equipment before connecting or disconnecting.
• Ensure that the electrical supply is turned off prior to inserting or removing plugs, following the approved procedures.
• Look for visible damage, unusual noises, abnormal vibrations, excessive frost, water leaks, smoke, burning odors, or other hazardous conditions.
• Inform the shift supervisor about any missing, damaged, mispositioned, or inaccurately identified reefers.
• Facilitate the safe movement and positioning of service vehicles while adhering to terminal traffic management protocols.
• Perform initial assessments for common issues, including power supply, plug connections, circuit-breaker status, controller alarms, setpoints, temperature readings, and operating modes.
• Keep work areas, service vehicles, tools, equipment, and spare materials in a clean and organized state.
• Refrain from unauthorized repairs or adjustments that exceed the approved competency and authorization levels.
• Participate in toolbox talks and adhere to all terminal safety regulations, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Job Safety Analyses (JSAs), risk assessments, and work instructions.
• Wear the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety footwear, helmets, high-visibility clothing, gloves, eye protection, and any task-specific PPE.
• Utilize authorized service vehicles for access to reefer towers and comply with terminal traffic regulations and speed limits.
• Promptly report unsafe conditions, near misses, incidents, damaged infrastructure, electrical hazards, refrigerant leaks, and cargo-risk scenarios.
• Maintain good housekeeping and ensure that power cables are coiled and stored properly after unplugging.
• Accurately input monitoring results, alarm conditions, plug/unplug activities, PTI findings, repairs, and exceptions into the Terminal Operating System (TOS) or other approved digital platforms.
• Provide clear operational handovers to the incoming technician or shift supervisor.
• Immediately report temperature excursions, detailing the duration, observed temperature, setpoint, cargo priority, and technical condition.
• Ensure that service forms, inspection records, PTI documentation, and line-item defect reports are legible and well-maintained.
• Follow directives from the Supervisor and Senior Technician, confirming the completion of assigned tasks.
• Contribute to accurate KPI data collection to monitor compliance, response times, PTI completion, and plug/unplug productivity.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS

• A minimum of 4 years of experience in reefer terminal operations, container refrigeration support, reefer yards, or a comparable cold-chain setting.
• A technical certificate, diploma, or vocational qualification in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, HVAC, Electrical, Electromechanical, or Mechanical Engineering.
• Proficient in English at a mid-level, sufficient for basic operational reporting, following technical instructions, system entries, and completing operational documentation.
• Training in basic refrigeration and electrical troubleshooting.
• Able to work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, public holidays, and during peak vessel operations.
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with TOS, reefer-monitoring applications, handheld devices, and digital reporting systems.
• Possession of valid driving credentials for terminal service vehicles when required.
• Familiar with reefer units such as Carrier, Daikin, Star Cool, Thermo King, and similar brands.
• Willing to enhance diagnostic skills through structured on-the-job training.
• Capable of clear communication with supervisors, senior technicians, planners, drivers, and other terminal staff.
• Exhibits discipline in adhering to procedures and accurately recording information.
• Maintains composure and attentiveness in response to alarms, temperature variations, or urgent operational demands.
• Employs practical problem-solving skills while recognizing when to escalate issues.
• Collaborates effectively within a shift team and supports colleagues during high-demand periods.
• Open to receiving coaching and committed to developing technical proficiency.
• Demonstrates a safety-focused mindset, personal accountability, punctuality, and consistent attendance.
• Maintains professionalism when interacting with shipping lines, contractors, customers, and other terminal stakeholders.