Higher-scope refrigeration roles can differ in system complexity, travel, supervision, and emergency coverage. Compare posted compensation and requirements rather than relying on an unsourced ranking.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a $61,010 median annual wage for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers (SOC 49-9021). This national occupation includes heating and air-conditioning work as well as refrigeration; it is not a pay estimate for this page’s specialty, plant operators, supervisors, or every Fridge Jobs posting. Compare the actual location, duties, and written offer. BLS occupation source. BLS does not publish separate wage figures for each role listed here.
Paths with different responsibilities
Industrial ammonia operator or mechanic
Engine-room rounds, mechanical integrity, operating procedures, and site-specific safety training.
CO₂ rack service specialist
High-pressure components, controls, leak response, and supermarket or cold-storage service.
Refrigeration controls specialist
Sensors, controllers, networking, alarm logic, and commissioning.
Service lead
Technical escalation, mentoring, quality checks, and coordination across a territory.
Service manager
Staffing, dispatch, customer commitments, safety, and financial responsibility.
OEM field technician
Manufacturer equipment startup, troubleshooting, training, and travel.
Compare a real offer
- Ask whether the posting is for direct service, plant operation, supervision, or sales support.
- Confirm the equipment, travel, after-hours coverage, safety program, and credentials.
- Compare written base pay, expected hours, premiums, benefits, and progression.