Supermarket Refrigeration Installation Manager

MalaceHR is seeking an experienced Supermarket Refrigeration Installation Manager to oversee all aspects of refrigeration installation projects within the region. This role manages the full lifecycle of installing supermarket rack systems, walk-in coolers/freezers, display cases, remote condensing units, and related mechanical/electrical components. The successful candidate will ensure projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards while leading installation teams and maintaining strong customer relationships.

Responsibilities

Project & Operational Management

• Manage the Installation P&L for the assigned geography, ensuring profitable execution.

• Oversee all supermarket refrigeration installations including:

  • Parallel rack systems (DX, CO₂, glycol)

  • Walk-in coolers and freezers

  • Refrigeration piping, line-sets, and insulation

  • Display cases, multidecks, reach-ins, and prep-line equipment

  • Condensers, evaporators, and remote condensing units

• Coordinate material procurement including piping, valves, cases, racks, controls, and electrical components.

• Manage permitting, scheduling, subcontractors, and manpower forecasting.

• Ensure installation quality meets manufacturer specs and supermarket chain standards.

• Provide regular project status updates to internal and external stakeholders.

• Troubleshoot and resolve installation issues related to refrigerant leaks, pressure testing, electrical tie-ins, and controls integration.

• Maintain accurate inventory of materials, equipment, and truck stock.

Leadership & Team Management

• Recruit, onboard, and manage Supervisors, Foremen, Rack Installers, Pipefitters, and Refrigeration Technicians.

• Provide coaching, training, and performance feedback to field personnel.

• Set expectations, communicate goals, and ensure accountability across the team.

• Foster a positive, collaborative, and safety-driven work environment.

• Use KPIs such as labor hours, rework rates, and installation timelines to drive results.

Customer, Vendor & GC Relations

• Build strong relationships with supermarket clients, GCs, case manufacturers, and equipment suppliers.

• Ensure customer expectations are met or exceeded from pre-construction through close-out.

• Address customer concerns promptly and professionally.

• Oversee subcontractor performance and ensure compliance with scope and quality standards.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all installations follow safety guidelines for refrigerants (HFCs, natural refrigerants, CO₂), pressure testing, evacuation, and charging.

• Enforce PPE usage and safe work practices on job sites.

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local codes as well as company policies and installation procedures.

• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure proper documentation of incidents, toolbox talks, and training.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma, GED, or technical school completion required.

• HVAC/R trade training or college degree preferred.

Experience & Skills

• 10+ years of experience in commercial/supermarket refrigeration installation.

• 5+ years of experience managing installation teams or field supervisors.

• Strong technical understanding of rack refrigeration systems, supermarket cases, line-sets, refrigerants, and controls.

• Knowledge of refrigeration piping design, valve groups, leak testing, evacuation procedures, and electrical tie-ins.

• Experience managing subcontractors and coordinating multi-discipline teams.

• Strong business acumen with the ability to manage P&L, budgets, labor forecasting, and material costs.

• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong customer service mindset with proven relationship-building skills.

• Familiarity with job site safety requirements and hazard awareness.

• Proficiency with email, Excel, Word, ERP/work order systems.

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Work Environment

• Office-based planning with frequent visits to active supermarket installation sites.

• Exposure to mechanical rooms, rooftops, walk-ins, and construction environments.

Physical Demands

• Standing, walking, climbing ladders, and working around refrigeration equipment.

• Use of hand tools, test equipment, and PPE.

• Ability to read and interpret drawings, rack diagrams, store layouts, and case schedules.