Freezer operator, plant

What does a refrigeration technician in a facility do? – Tasks and work environment

A refrigeration technician in a facility works with operation, monitoring, and maintenance of cooling and refrigeration systems in larger buildings, industries, or facilities. Tasks include checking and regulating temperatures, troubleshooting, repairs, and planned maintenance of machinery. Ensuring safe operation and energy efficiency are central, as the systems are often critical for the operation. The work environment can vary, often involving technical rooms, sometimes under time pressure during urgent disruptions, requiring both technical knowledge and precision.

Salary development over time

The salary for refrigeration technicians in a facility has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,300 SEK per month, increasing to 37 100 SEK in 2023 and further to 38 300 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 5.5% during the period. The development is partly driven by increased demand for technically skilled operation technicians, as well as a growing focus on energy efficiency and sustainability in industry. Salary increases have been consistent, indicating a stable job market where skills and experience are highly valued, but major shortages have not arisen. Gender salary gaps remain, although they are slowly decreasing.

Refrigeration technician in a facility salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 42,200 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 230 SEK/hour
• Women's salary relative to men: 95%
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but generally show small differences nationwide.

Education and qualifications

To work as a refrigeration technician in a facility, a high school education in electrical and energy programs is usually required, preferably with a focus on refrigeration and heat pump technology. Post-secondary education or vocational higher education within operation or refrigeration technology is advantageous and can increase employment opportunities. Certification for handling refrigerants and practical experience in the industry are important qualifications.

• High school education: Electrical and energy program, with specialization in refrigeration and heat pump technology (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Vocational higher education in refrigeration and heat pump technology or operation (1.5–2 years)
• Certificates: Refrigerant handling certificate and possibly other specialized certifications
• Internship: Mandatory practical training during education, with opportunities for trainee positions
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of technology, mathematics, and work environment safety

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, refrigeration technicians in facilities often receive benefits such as shift allowances for night work, extra compensation for on-call duties, and wellness allowances. Other common benefits include occupational pension, work clothing, training opportunities, and sometimes bonuses based on results. In some cases, company health services and employee discounts are also offered.

Competition and challenges

The job market for refrigeration technicians in facilities is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, with moderate opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. Developments in automation and technological innovation affect the profession, meaning tasks may change over time and require continuous retraining. Another challenge is ensuring high safety standards and environmental awareness, especially regarding refrigerant handling. The shortage of certified personnel in certain regions can lead to regional differences in competition.

Tips for those who want to become a refrigeration technician in a facility

To succeed as a refrigeration technician in a facility, it’s good to have a technical interest and be detail-oriented, as troubleshooting and maintenance require attention to detail. Being service-minded and having good communication skills are important since the work often involves collaboration with colleagues and clients. Flexibility and stress resistance are crucial during urgent shutdowns, and a structured approach makes handling both planned and unexpected tasks easier. Continuously updating oneself on new technologies and regulations provides advantages in the job market. Lastly, the ability to work independently while being open to collaboration and sharing knowledge in a team is highly valued.

Key facts about refrigeration technicians in a facility

• Education level: High school or vocational higher education
• Work environment: Technical rooms, often in teams and sometimes shift work
• Demand: Moderate job opportunities (481 available positions nationwide)
• Special skills: Certification for refrigerants and operation technology
• Typical working arrangement: Full-time, often with on-call or shift duties

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a refrigeration technician in a facility can advance to roles such as operations supervisor, technical specialist, or site manager within property technology and industrial cooling. Opportunities also exist to specialize in energy efficiency or project management for larger installation projects. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for operation technicians at heating and waterworks, including refrigeration technicians, indicate unchanged future prospects and a balanced job market over the next five years. Demand is influenced by technological development and increased sustainability requirements, making continuous skills development an important factor for long-term career growth.

Frequently asked questions about refrigeration technicians in a facility

• What does a refrigeration technician in a facility earn?
  - A refrigeration technician in a facility has an average salary of 38 300 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn an average of 38 500 SEK while women earn 36 600 SEK, which means women earn 95% of men's salary in the profession.
• What education is required to become a refrigeration technician in a facility?
  - High school education in electrical and energy programs, preferably with a focus on refrigeration technology, along with certification for refrigerants is recommended.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, after a few years, you can advance to supervisor, operations manager, or technical specialist.
• What is the job market like for refrigeration technicians?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities, with 481 available positions nationwide.
• What tasks are included in the profession?
  - Operation, monitoring, maintenance, troubleshooting of cooling and refrigeration systems, and handling refrigerants.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a refrigeration technician in a facility?
  - The highest salary is 42,200 SEK and the lowest is 30,700 SEK per month, depending on education, sector, and experience.