An expert on the installation, design, maintenance and repair of refrigeration systems is commonly referred to as a refrigeration engineer. These tradesmen can be employed as part of an HVAC firm, by an appliance manufacturer, as an individual contractor or by a large-scale commercial operation such as grocery and food processing companies
In addition to thorough knowledge of refrigeration technology, persons working in this position must have strong communication skills, the ability to manage a number of small projects and should be in reasonable physical condition for this hands-on role
Most engineers will need to have acquired official HVAC certification. Trade courses are on offer from a number of UK universities and colleges, and apprenticeships can be even more beneficial. Engineers involved heavily in the design process for large commercial systems will typically be expected to have at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field
The average salary for a refrigeration engineer in the UK can vary from entry-level rates in the neighbourhood of £18,000 per annum to as much as £50,000 per year for the most desirable positions.