Mechanical & Refrigeration Engineer

Job description

We’re Hiring!

Mechanical & Refrigeration Engineer

Yalelo is seeking a highly qualified and experienced Mechanical & Refrigeration Engineer to lead the monitoring, maintenance, installation, and optimisation of cold chain and mechanical equipment at our production site in Siavonga. The role is critical in ensuring the reliable and efficient operation of chilling and freezing systems, production machinery, and associated assets. The successful candidate will supervise a team of mechanical and refrigeration technicians, driving equipment uptime while upholding food safety, environmental standards, and energy efficiency.

This position is based at our production site in Siavonga.

The right fit candidate will perform the following:

General Duties

Lead, mentor, and manage mechanical & refrigeration teams, ensuring high performance.
Provide technical guidance, training, and capacity building for team members.
Oversee documentation, reporting, compliance, and equipment management.
Ensure effective coordination with stakeholders, other engineering sections, and end users.
Drive innovation, problem-solving, and preventative measures to enhance safety, sustainability, and productivity.
Maintenance
Plan and execute preventive maintenance schedules.
Respond promptly to breakdowns and troubleshoot faults.
Monitor, inspect, and ensure quality standards for all maintenance work.
Develop and use control tools (checklists, job cards, records) to track resources and performance.

Installation & Commissioning

Lead installation, commissioning, and optimisation of new and existing equipment.
Collaborate with consultants, vendors, and internal teams for specialised projects.
Conduct feasibility studies, prepare technical specifications, and create engineering drawings.
Ensure safety reviews, operational checks, and adherence to warranty terms during commissioning.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

Motivation to thrive in a high-impact, fast-paced role within a growing company.
Knowledgeable on Freezer electrical and refrigeration circuits and temperature controls.
Knowledge in scale calibration, repair and maintenance is an added advantage
Should have advanced knowledge of HVAC and refrigeration systems, good mechanical skills, and excellent troubleshooting skills
Strong diagnostic and problem solving skills
Ability to anticipate problems quickly and find solutions
Ability to lead multiple work streams and teams in a demanding production environment.

Qualifications & Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Production Engineering.
Minimum of 4 years’ relevant experience in the food processing industry.
Proven hands-on expertise with industrial machinery and cold chain equipment, including blast freezers, reefers, chillers, and ice-making machines.

Demonstrated leadership experience, with a track record of effectively managing and guiding teams.

If this, is YOU, we would like to hear from you today!!! Apply by sending as your ZAQA validated qualifications and a cover letter as  a single document.

Apply Here

Yalelo Ltd is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, age, disability, race, religion, or any other