Demand for refrigeration service engineers was very high until the second half of 2008, when the economic downturn started to affect the number of vacancies. Demand for refrigeration service engineers is particularly influenced by retail and building activity, which began to fall at this time.
However, the chances of getting a job as a refrigeration service engineer are still good, with employers often struggling to fill advertised vacancies. Vacancy numbers are expected to return to former peak levels by the end of 2009, or 2011 at the latest.
This job appears on Immigration New Zealand's long-term skill shortage list, which means the Government is actively encouraging skilled refrigeration service engineers from overseas to work in New Zealand.
Growing number of refrigeration service engineers
Census data shows that the number of heating, ventilation and refrigeration mechanics (which includes refrigeration service engineers) increased by 14% between 1996 and 2006. The dip in 2001 reflects low trainee numbers during the previous three years.
Number of heating, ventilation and refrigeration mechanics in New Zealand
(1996, 2001, 2006)| Census | Number of heating, ventilation and refrigeration mechanics |
|---|
| 1996 | 717 |
| 2001 | 588 |
| 2006 | 819 |
| Source: Department of Labour, Jobs and Tertiary Education Indicator Tool. |
Most refrigeration service engineers work for private companies specialising in the sale, design, installation, and maintenance of refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. Their clients may include:
- meat processing companies
- coolstores
- supermarkets and other retail food outlets
- construction companies
- hospitals and hotels
- homeowners.
