Yalelo Ltd is seeking a highly skilled and hands on Senior Refrigeration Technician to join our Commercial Services team based in Lusaka. This is a strategic, project driven role responsible not only for maintenance but also for driving in-house installation capability, reducing reliance on external contractors, and delivering key cold chain infrastructure projects.
This role will play a critical part in supporting the company’s expansion through installation, commissioning, and optimization of advanced refrigeration systems including cold rooms, chiller rooms, blast freezers, and flake ice machines.
Key Responsibilities
1. Refrigeration Systems Maintenance & Optimization
- Lead preventive and corrective maintenance across refrigeration systems including cold rooms, display chillers, blast freezers, and ice machines.
- Diagnose complex faults across compressors, evaporators, condensers, expansion valves, and control systems.
- Drive uptime improvement initiatives and minimize product loss through rapid response and root cause elimination.
- Implement continuous improvement strategies to enhance system efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
2. Installation, Projects & Commissioning (CORE FOCUS)
- Lead end to end installation and commissioning of:
- Cold rooms
- Chiller rooms
- Flake ice machines
- Blast freezers
- Execute projects in-house where feasible, delivering cost savings on contractor reliance.
- Interpret layouts, drawings, and refrigeration schematics to execute installations to OEM standards.
- Support expansion projects across Distribution Centers and retail outlets.
3. Electrical Systems & Controls (Critical Competency)
- Diagnose and repair electrical faults in refrigeration systems, including:
- Motors, relays, contactors, circuit breakers
- Sensors and control panels
- Read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
- Perform PLC troubleshooting and control optimization for refrigeration processes.
- Conduct electrical testing (insulation resistance, load checks, phase balancing) ensuring compliance with standards.
4. Cost Optimization & In-house Capability Development
- Identify opportunities for standardization of equipment and spares.
- Support procurement with technical specifications and vendor evaluations.
- Mentor junior technicians to build a strong internal refrigeration team.
5. Documentation, RCA & CMMS Utilization
- Maintain accurate service logs, installation reports, and project documentation.
- Conduct Root Cause Analysis (RCA) on recurring failures and implement corrective actions.
- Utilize CMMS systems for tracking maintenance, performance, and planning.
6. Safety & Compliance
- Ensure all work complies with EIZ, ZEMA, and internal safety standards.
- Conduct risk assessments and enforce safe work practices on all installations and maintenance activities.
- Participate in audits and continuous improvement programs.
7. Cross-functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Operations, Compliance, Procurement, and Engineering teams.
- Support rollout of new infrastructure and store upgrades.
- Provide technical guidance during audits and expansion planning.
Qualifications
- Full Grade 12 Certificate
- Diploma or Degree in Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- Valid EIZ Practicing License (highly desirable)
Experience
- Minimum 5+ years’ experience in commercial/industrial refrigeration
- Proven experience in installation and commissioning cold rooms, blast freezers, and ice machines
- Strong background in electrical systems and PLC troubleshooting
- Experience in FMCG, food processing, or cold chain environments preferred
- Demonstrated ability to lead projects and reduce costs through in-house execution
Key Competencies
- Strong technical troubleshooting skills
- Project execution and planning capability
- Cost-conscious and solutions-driven mindset
- Leadership and mentoring ability
- High attention to safety and compliance
Application Requirements
Submit the following as one document:
- Cover Letter
- Updated CV
- Academic Qualifications (ZAQA validated where applicable)
- NRC
