At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and repair ship HVAC systems, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
- Company: Join PONANT Cruises, a leader in luxury expedition cruising.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, unique travel experiences, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with diverse teams and opportunities to explore the world.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting maritime adventure while honing your technical skills.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Reeferman and valid STCW certificates required.
The predicted salary is between 38250 - 46750 £ per year.
We are currently looking for an experienced Reeferman to join PONANT Cruises.
Vessel assignments and joining dates:
- LE PONANT: Joining between 02 and 31 October 2026
- LE SOLEAL: Joining 09 November 2026, with the assignment running until 14 March 2027
Requirements:
- Proven experience as a Reeferman
- All valid and relevant STCW certificates
- Good and recent references/recommendations
Interested and suitably qualified candidates are invited to apply and provide their updated CV, certificates, and latest references/recommendations.
Position Summary
Responsible for the maintenance and repair of the ship's HVAC equipment/system, domestic refrigeration plant, ventilation, cooling, freezing, provision equipment, all air conditioning throughout the vessel and ensuring they are up to the Company standards and in compliance with Public Health, any National or International standards or any other prescribed regulations. Ensures proper coordination with different technical parties and departments.
Reporting Structure
Reporting to the Hotel Engineer or HVAC Engineer. Functional reporting to Hotel Engineer or HVAC Engineer for all Hotel Department matters. Subordinates – AC Fitter.
Safety Duties:
- Participates in crew safety drills according to instructions.
- Must always comply with the Company’s safety and pollution prevention regulations and operating procedures.
- Leads by example by taking care of Health and Safety of self and others.
- Ensures that all work equipment, personal protective equipment, chemicals and safety devices are being used correctly.
Education/Experience/Qualifications:
- Valid STCW 95 certification.
- Appropriate certification as required by regulations.
- Good knowledge of refrigeration system, AC distribution systems and ability to solve AC issues in cabins and public spaces.
- Consistent job experience as ship refrigerator fitter with screw and centrifugal compressors.
- Licensed to handle refrigerant gases.
- Physically and medically fit.
- Moral integrity is required.
- Public Health, Sanitation and Environmental training courses are appreciated.
- Proficient in reading and understanding technical drawings and manuals.
- Alaska experience is a plus.
- It is recommended to have Public Health, Coast Guard and Port State Control experience.
Language requirements:
Excellent fluent English (verbal, written and technical). English is the working and safety language on board. This also includes the ability to give and receive instructions in verbal and written forms and to effectively and efficiently engage with guests and crew members. Additional languages are considered beneficial.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions:
Required to stand, walk long distances, reaching and sitting. Repetitive motion of bending, going up and down stairs, climbing ladders. Lifting or pushing of up to 50lbs. The position requires overtime work and irregular schedules. Works in all areas of the vessel with noise, light traffic and distracting environments.
Profile:
- Vast knowledge of a multi outlet operation.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead, motivate and develop a culturally diverse work force.
- Punctual.
- Proactive approach to problem solving.
- Ability to be flexible, well organized, self managed and motivated.
- Ability to handle multiple demands, remain calm and effective under pressure and resolve issues quickly.
- Safe, professional and personal practices.
- Fully conversant with VMS and MLC requirements.
- Well groomed and neat appearance.
- Ability to work in confined spaces.
- Ability to live in close quarters, share limited space with cabin mates.
- Ability to deliver a high standard of technical performance.
Status: Petty Officer.
Salary: Refer to contract.
Rotation: Refer to contract.
Key Responsibilities
- Safe maintenance, operation, repair, supervision and ownership of the following systems according to Company policies and other prescribed regulations (to include but not limited to the following):
- Engine room ventilation systems.
- Galley ventilation systems.
- Provision room equipment.
- Multi-flow beverage machines.
- Hotel accommodation and areas.
- Crew accommodation and areas.
- Mini bar units and ice making machines.
- Under counter fridges.
- Inspects the cleanliness and safety of galley, laundry, and launderette exhaust ducts, and ensures that all required and necessary cleaning routines are properly executed.
- Assists the Hotel Engineer in the coordination and control of the refrigeration accounts.
- Driving and maintenance of the air conditioning compressor cooling system equal or superior to 600 KW.
- Control and maintenance of air conditioning station cooled by chilled water.
- Carries out overhauls of A.C. Unit including the replacement of bearings and alignment.
- Responsible to the Hotel Engineer for the cleanliness of AC Stations based on daily verification conducted with the assistance of Asst A/C Fitter.
- Responsible to the Hotel Engineer for the maintenance of the Air Handling Units (AHUs).
- Reports to the Hotel Engineer daily with verification/adjustments of AC temperature in hotel areas including restaurants bars and galleys.
- Reports to the Hotel Engineer with daily verification of performance and maintenance of A/C Compressors.
- Conducts “night audit” in rotation with the Asst A/C Fitter.
- Ensures sufficient stock of spare parts and consumables is on order and in the onboard system to cover planned and unplanned maintenance.
- Participates in the development of on board operational plans in accordance with all technical, legislative, safety and procedural specifications, to support the successful completion of maintenance periods and works closely with the Hotel Department on all maintenance issues, ensuring a minimal impact on the shipboard operation.
- Reports completed maintenance to the Hotel Engineer for entry into the planned maintenance system.
- Keeps Chief Engineer, Staff Engineer and Hotel Engineer promptly and fully informed of all problems and matters of significance. Conducting daily communication to review progress and agree on work prioritisation.
- Accountable for ensuring that Company, Public Health, National and International standards are maintained and meeting requirements. Reporting to the Hotel Engineer any instances where the ship is unable or fails to comply.
- Accurate completion of log books and other assigned documentation.
- Observes and enforces uniform and grooming standards according to Company policies.
- Practices good people management, maintaining proper conduct within the Hotel and Technical departments.
- All other duties as assigned.
Reeferman for Ponant Cruises in London employer: V.Group
V.Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises safety and innovation in the maritime industry. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide extensive training and growth opportunities, ensuring our team members thrive in their careers. Located at the forefront of windfarm installation, our culture fosters collaboration and excellence, making it a rewarding place for those passionate about sustainable energy solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reeferman for Ponant Cruises in London
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like V.Group.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like V.Group love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of V.Group and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Reeferman for Ponant Cruises in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for V.Group and the Reeferman for Ponant Cruises role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at V.Group
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at V.Group.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at V.Group.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with V.Group, making you a more appealing candidate.
