Biomedical Refrigeration Specialist

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POSITION SUMMARY
This position is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, calibration, and repair of specialized laboratory refrigeration systems used in clinical, research, and diagnostic environments. This position ensures that all cold-storage equipment supporting patient testing, specimen integrity, reagents, and research materials operate safely, reliably, and in compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards. The equipment includes ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers (−40°C to −86°C), biomedical refrigerators and freezers, refrigerated centrifuges, incubators with cooling systems, and any laboratory equipment that incorporates a refrigeration system.

Performs all functions according to established policies, procedures, regulatory and accreditation requirements, as well as applicable professional standards.

CORE FUNCTIONS
1. Performs scheduled preventive maintenance on laboratory refrigeration systems, including ULT freezers, biomedical refrigerators, cryogenic units, and refrigerated laboratory instruments. Conducts detailed inspections of compressors, evaporators, condensers, vacuum seals, insulation integrity, temperature probes, control boards, and refrigerant levels. Diagnoses and repairs failures down to the board level, including electronic control systems, sensors, relays, solenoids, and refrigeration circuits.

2. Installs new laboratory refrigeration equipment, ensuring proper electrical, environmental, and ventilation requirements. Performs acceptance testing and calibration to verify equipment meets manufacturer and regulatory specifications.

3. Conducts electrical safety inspections in accordance with biomedical engineering standards. Uses specialized diagnostic tools (e.g., data loggers, thermocouple meters, vacuum gauges, leak detectors, multimeters) to verify performance, stability, and temperature accuracy.

4. Documents all service activities in the organization’s maintenance management system. Maintains accurate records of temperature calibrations, PM schedules, repairs, and parts usage. Tags and logs new equipment, performs incoming inspections, and ensures compliance with accreditation requirements (CAP, CLIA, Joint Commission).

5. Continuously expands knowledge of emerging laboratory refrigeration technologies, refrigerants, and biomedical equipment standards through training and certification programs. Must be willing to expand their skills set to include troubleshooting and repair of non-refrigerated equipment.

6.  Communicates with laboratory staff, managers, and equipment vendors regarding service needs, equipment performance, and repair timelines. Research technical manuals, service bulletins, and parts using online resources.

NOTE: The core functions are intended to describe the general content and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties. Specific tasks or responsibilities will be documented as outlined by leadership.

SCOPE AND COMPLEXITY
Supports all LSA/SQL facilities, including satellite laboratories and clinical sites. Works with internal customers ranging from laboratory technologists to department directors. Coordinates with equipment manufacturers and service vendors for complex repairs or warranty issues. Use procurement systems to request parts and materials as needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENT FACTORS

Requires reading, writing, verbal communication skills, stooping, bending, reaching, kneeling and standing for long periods. Mechanical aptitude, ability to lift up to 75 pounds and work under stress of deadlines. Ability to work varied hours when needed. Work is performed in an (OSHA 1) work environment. Exposure to laboratory environments, including biohazardous materials, chemicals, cryogenic temperatures, and high temperature discharge areas. Requires proper PPE and adherence to safety protocols. Travel to multiple facilities, occasionally for short periods.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong understanding of laboratory refrigeration systems, including cascade refrigeration, ULT freezer technology, and other specialized refrigeration equipment.

• Ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, flow charts, and technical manuals.

• Proficiency with AC/DC electronics, electromechanical systems, sensors, controls, and refrigeration cycles.

• Basic computer skills for documentation and navigation of maintenance software and Microsoft Office.

• Effective communication skills for interacting with clinical staff and vendors.

• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations related to diagnostics and calibration.

• Knowledge of electrical systems, electronics, electromechanics, and basic pneumatics/hydraulics.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret technical diagrams and troubleshoot complex systems.

• Experience with ultra low temperature freezers and biomedical or laboratory refrigeration equipment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Four (4) years of experience in refrigeration or HVAC repair, preferably in a biomedical or laboratory environment.

• Current refrigeration certification (e.g., EPA 608 Type I–II–III or Universal, NATE, HVAC Excellence).

• Valid state driver’s license and insurability.

• Ability to travel regularly throughout Arizona, including occasional overnight stays.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Technical training or certifications in biomedical engineering, laboratory equipment repair, or advanced refrigeration systems.

• Experience working in clinical, research, or hospital environments.

• Additional related education and/or experience.  

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Our organization supports a drug-free work environment.

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