Refrigeration Pipefitter / Brazer (€600 – €750 net per week) in Netherlands

Job description

We are currently looking for an experienced Refrigeration Pipefitter / Brazer to work on board ships and yachts, as well as at shipyards and workshops. In this position, you will be responsible for independently installing, modifying and maintaining refrigeration piping systems used in cooling and air-conditioning installations. Your main responsibility will be brazing copper refrigerant pipes, ensuring strong, vibration-resistant and completely leak-tight connections. You may work on fishing vessels, cargo ships, ferries, cruise ships, offshore vessels, naval vessels and yachts.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Installing and assembling complete refrigeration piping systems on board ships and yachts.
• Independently brazing (hard soldering) copper refrigerant pipes and components under nitrogen shielding.
• Producing strong, vibration-resistant and completely leak-tight brazed connections.
• Prefabricating pipe sections and distribution components in workshops and shipyards.
• Measuring, cutting, preparing, fitting and connecting refrigeration piping.
• Installing and connecting evaporators, condensers, compressors and expansion valves.
• Mounting and supporting refrigeration pipes according to technical specifications and shipyard standards.
• Performing pressure and leak tests using dry nitrogen.
• Evacuating refrigeration systems and preparing installations for commissioning.
• Modifying, replacing and repairing existing refrigeration piping during maintenance, refit and conversion projects.
• Working with refrigeration piping for cold rooms, freezer rooms, galley refrigeration, HVAC systems, chillers and cargo refrigeration.
• Reading and interpreting refrigeration schematics, P&IDs and isometric drawings.
• Working alongside refrigeration mechanics and commissioning engineers to prepare completed installations for operation.
• Following safety and quality procedures when working in engine rooms, technical spaces and confined areas.

Job Requirements

• At least 3 years of proven recent professional experience as a Refrigeration Pipefitter / Brazer is mandatory.
• Strong practical experience independently brazing copper refrigerant piping under nitrogen shielding is essential.
• Ability to produce vibration-resistant and completely leak-tight brazed connections.
• Experience installing and assembling refrigeration piping systems.
• Experience with evaporators, condensers, compressors and expansion valves.
• Practical experience performing pressure and leak tests using dry nitrogen.
• Ability to independently read refrigeration schematics, P&IDs and isometric technical drawings.
• Knowledge of refrigeration piping systems used in HVAC, chillers, cold storage or industrial refrigeration.
• Understanding of F-gas regulations, PED directives and relevant safety procedures.
• Brazing certification for refrigeration piping (e.g. ISO 13585 / PED).
• VCA Basic (SCC) or VCA-VOL safety certification required. If you do not have a valid VCA certificate, the employer can arrange the course and examination in the Netherlands.
• Relevant technical vocational education in refrigeration technology, installation technology or a similar field.
• Ability to work independently, accurately and safely.
• Willingness to travel to different shipyards and vessels across the Netherlands.
• Comfortable working in engine rooms, technical spaces and confined areas.
• Previous experience in the maritime sector, including shipbuilding, ship repair, yachts or offshore projects, is a strong advantage.
• F-gas Category 1 or 2 certification is preferred for working independently with refrigerants.

Important: This is primarily a refrigeration piping installation and brazing position, not a general HVAC service mechanic role. Candidates must have hands-on experience brazing copper refrigerant piping. General welding experience (MIG/MAG or TIG) or ventilation ductwork installation experience alone is not sufficient.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive net weekly salary, based on experience and certifications, discussed during the interview, possible range is €600 – €750 net per week.
• Full-time employment based on 40 working hours per week, usually from approximately 07:00 to 16:00.
• Possibility of overtime and weekend work, depending on project requirements, with increased compensation.
• Private bedroom in SNF-certified accommodation, usually shared with 3–4 other colleagues.
• Accommodation includes Wi-Fi, a washing machine and provided bedding.
• €100 net per week additional compensation if you arrange your own accommodation instead of using company housing.
• Company transport available, including a fuel card.
• Company car available free of charge for work-related travel only.
• Optional private use of a company car (approximately 150–200 km per week) for an additional cost of around €40 per week.
• If you use your own car, a travel allowance of €0.23/km may apply, subject to transport arrangements.
• Professional tools and required personal protective equipment (PPE) provided.
• Opportunity to work on different maritime projects, including shipbuilding, repairs, maintenance and yacht refits.
• Start date by mutual agreement.