The Senior Refrigeration Engineer leads the design, analysis, and lifecycle management of advanced marine refrigeration systems, including chillers, heat exchangers, condensers, evaporators, and refrigerant piping networks. This position is accountable for delivering robust, efficient, and compliant thermal systems across commercial, naval, and offshore marine platforms. The role requires deep technical expertise, leadership in cross-functional engineering coordination, and ownership of full system performance, from concept to commissioning.
Lead the design and optimization of refrigeration systems for shipboard HVAC, cargo cooling, provisions storage, and machinery heat rejection.
Conduct advanced thermodynamic analysis, refrigerant cycle modeling, and heat exchanger sizing to ensure efficient and reliable system performance.
Select and specify marine-grade equipment: centrifugal/screw chillers, shell & tube or plate-type heat exchangers, compressors, evaporators, and valves.
Prepare and approve P&IDs, system flow diagrams, equipment layout drawings, and interface specifications for shipboard integration.
Ensure compliance with applicable classification society standards (ABS, DNV, BV) and environmental regulations (IMO MARPOL Annex VI, F-Gas, EPA).
Provide technical leadership for vendor selection, technical bid evaluations, and performance reviews of refrigeration equipment suppliers.
Oversee and support FATs, commissioning, troubleshooting, and lifecycle upgrades of marine refrigeration systems on board ships and offshore units.
Coordinate with naval architecture, structural, piping, automation, and electrical teams to ensure seamless system integration.
Mentor junior engineers, review design documentation, and ensure quality and technical accuracy of engineering deliverables.
Serve as a technical liaison for client and regulatory meetings, design reviews, and audits.
System Architecture & Optimization
– Develop high-performance refrigeration systems tailored for marine environments, balancing capacity, energy efficiency, footprint, and redundancy.
Regulatory Compliance & Safety Leadership
– Ensure all systems meet fire safety, pressure vessel, refrigerant handling, and environmental protection standards under IMO, SOLAS, and class society rules.
Project Leadership & Execution
– Lead refrigeration work packages in new builds and retrofit programs, ensuring timely delivery, cost control, and quality assurance.
Cross-Disciplinary Technical Integration
– Guide complex interfaces with HVAC controls, electrical power systems, ship service loads, and cargo support systems.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or a related field.
8–12+ years of experience in refrigeration system design, preferably in marine or offshore environments.
Expert knowledge of refrigeration principles, heat exchanger technologies, refrigerants (including natural/GWP-compliant), and marine HVAC integration.
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or AVEVA Marine, and thermal simulation software such as HTRI, Aspen HYSYS, or EES.
Strong familiarity with classification society rules (ABS, DNV, BV) and IMO environmental regulations.
Demonstrated leadership in multi-disciplinary teams, project execution, and mentorship of junior staff.
Strong communication, documentation, and stakeholder management skills.
Experience with chiller plant automation, refrigerant leak detection, and integration with BMS/SCADA systems.
Track record of supporting Navy vessels, LNG carriers, cruise ships, or offshore platforms with critical cooling systems.
Certification or training in refrigerant handling (e.g., EPA 608, F-gas certification) is a plus.
Professional Engineering (PE) license or Chartered Engineer (CEng) designation preferred.