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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and mentor junior engineers while managing large-scale refrigeration and HVAC systems.
- Company: Join OCS UK & Ireland, a top facilities management company with a diverse workforce.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, career growth, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by leading technical services and mentoring the next generation of engineers.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in HVAC/R systems and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a company that values diversity and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
About The Company
OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award‑winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering. Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values - Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.
About The Role
Working Days: Monday to Friday 08:00 - 17:00
We are seeking a highly experienced and technically proficient Lead Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Engineer to join our mobile technical services team. This senior‑level role is ideal for a time‑served engineer with extensive experience in large‑scale refrigeration and HVAC systems, who is also passionate about mentoring and supporting the development of junior engineers. You will lead by example in delivering advanced technical services, supporting complex installations, and ensuring compliance across a diverse portfolio of commercial sites. You will also play a key role in knowledge sharing, technical guidance, and continuous improvement within the team.
Key Responsibilities
- Technical Leadership & Mentorship: Provide technical leadership and mentoring to junior and mid‑level engineers. Support training and development initiatives, including on‑the‑job coaching and technical troubleshooting guidance. Act as a point of escalation for complex technical issues and assist in root cause analysis and resolution.
- Advanced Service & Maintenance: Lead planned and reactive maintenance, servicing, and repairs on large‑scale VRV/VRF systems, central plant refrigeration systems, chillers, cold rooms, and multi‑compressor systems, advanced AHUs, heat pumps, and integrated HVAC systems. Diagnose and resolve faults across electrical, mechanical, and refrigerant systems with a focus on long‑term reliability and performance.
- Compliance & Quality Assurance: Ensure all works meet or exceed F‑Gas & ODS regulations, technical standards, and manufacturer specifications. Conduct quality audits and support continuous improvement in service delivery and compliance. Promote and enforce safe working practices across all operational activities.
- Documentation & Reporting: Review and validate service documentation, inspection reports, and remedial work records. Provide technical feedback and improvement suggestions to internal teams and clients. Use digital tools (PDA/mobile apps) to manage workflow, reporting, and communication.
- Client Engagement & Collaboration: Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, offering expert advice and reassurance. Collaborate with internal teams to support project planning, mobilisation, and service enhancements. Represent the technical team in client meetings and site reviews when required.
- Emergency Support & Escalation: Participate in the emergency on‑call rota and provide senior‑level support during critical incidents. Lead or support emergency response efforts, ensuring rapid resolution and minimal disruption.
Requirements
- Time‑served apprenticeship in Refrigeration/Air Conditioning
- City & Guilds Level 3 NVQ or equivalent in HVAC, Refrigeration, or Mechanical Engineering
- F‑Gas & ODS Regulations (Category 1 – 2079)
- Minimum 5–10 years of hands‑on experience in commercial HVAC/R systems
- Proven experience with large‑scale refrigeration systems and central plant equipment
- Strong understanding of Health & Safety legislation and Permit to Work systems
- Experience mentoring or supervising engineering teams
- Excellent fault‑finding and diagnostic skills
- Proficient in using digital reporting tools and mobile apps
- Strong communication and leadership skills
- Full UK driving licence
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! You can also sign up to our job alerts when registering which will notify you when other suitable vacancies are available. We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.
Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Engineer employer: Manchester Arndale
Contact Detail:
Manchester Arndale Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the industry, attend local meetups, or join online forums. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your past projects and achievements in HVAC systems. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your technical prowess.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. Focus on how you can lead and mentor others, as this is key for the role you're aiming for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you can sign up for job alerts to stay updated on new opportunities that match your skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in large-scale systems and mentoring, to show us you’re the right fit for our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for HVAC systems and your commitment to quality and compliance. Let us know how your values align with our TRUE values.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your technical skills! Mention specific systems you’ve worked with, like VRV/VRF or chillers, and any digital tools you’re proficient in. We love seeing that expertise!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep you updated on your progress!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Arndale
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge about large-scale refrigeration and HVAC systems. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, the challenges you faced, and how you resolved them. This will show that you're not just experienced but also passionate about your field.
✨Showcase Your Mentorship Skills
Since this role involves mentoring junior engineers, think of examples where you've successfully guided others. Prepare to share how you approach training and development, and be ready to discuss any initiatives you've led to improve team performance.
✨Emphasise Compliance and Safety
Familiarise yourself with F-Gas & ODS regulations and be prepared to talk about how you've ensured compliance in your previous roles. Highlight your understanding of Health & Safety legislation and how you promote safe working practices within your team.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s culture, their approach to client engagement, and how they support continuous improvement. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
