Air Conditioning jobs in Southend-on-Sea

Lead Refrigeration Engineer – Wine Cellar Systems
Location: Rayleigh, Essex (with travel across the UK and internationally)
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Competitive, with travel allowances and benefits

About Us:
We are a leading specialist in luxury wine cellar design and installation, based in Rayleigh. With a reputation for excellence, we deliver custom wine storage solutions to high-end residential and commercial clients. Our expertise lies in engineering the perfect environments for wine preservation through bespoke conditioning and refrigeration systems.

Role Overview:
We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Lead Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Engineer to take on a senior role within our mechanical team. This is a hands-on leadership position ideal for someone who not only excels in system installation and maintenance, but who also brings vision and innovation to the table. You’ll be involved in overseeing end-to-end refrigeration projects, developing bespoke systems, and driving product innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage refrigeration installation projects from concept through to completion
• Oversee a small team of engineers, ensuring high-quality workmanship and adherence to project timelines
• Review technical drawings, approve system layouts, and provide input on design improvements
• Build and commission bespoke refrigeration systems tailored for premium wine cellars and fridges
• Research and develop new products and technologies to enhance system efficiency and performance
• Collaborate closely with the design, technical and installation teams to deliver seamless client solutions
• Ensure all installations comply with current industry regulations and internal quality standards
• Provide support for complex service and maintenance tasks when required
• Travel to project sites in the UK and internationally, representing the company with professionalism and expertise

Skills & Experience Required:

• Extensive experience in air conditioning and refrigeration engineering, ideally with leadership experience
• Strong understanding of bespoke refrigeration systems and controls
• Confident in reading, interpreting and signing off technical drawings and system schematics
• Background in construction or experience working closely with construction professionals
• Interest in innovation, with experience in research and development preferred
• Excellent team leadership, organisational and communication skills
• CSCS Card (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) – preferred
• F-Gas certification and relevant HVAC/R qualifications - essential
• Willingness to travel, including occasional overseas work

What We Offer:

• A competitive salary with travel and accommodation allowances
• Opportunity to work in a highly specialised and respected industry
• Involvement in prestigious UK and international projects
• Professional development and training to expand your technical leadership capabilities

How to Apply:
If you're ready to take the lead in a niche and exciting field, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV, detailing your relevant experience and what you can bring to our specialist refrigeration team.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Overtime

Work Location: In person