How much does a refrigeration technician earn?
Refrigeration technicians service, repair and optimise refrigeration, air-conditioning and heat-pump systems – in retail, industry, food cold storage and building services. Gross pay depends on region, collective agreements, employer and specialisation. As a guide, qualified refrigeration technicians in Germany in 2026 often earn about €3,300–€3,950 gross per month; during apprenticeship around €1,000–€1,330 is typical.
Salary by region (gross/month)
Guide figures as of 2026. Actual pay depends on collective agreements, employer, region, experience, refrigerant certification and order situation and is not a guarantee.
Further training options
Job and everyday work
A refrigeration technician works in plant rooms, cold stores, supermarkets, offices and on construction sites: checking systems, fixing faults, servicing pipework and components, handling refrigerants and adjusting plants. Everyday work includes leak tests, electrical and control work, occupational safety, and service or emergency call-outs – often under deadline pressure and with strict environmental and safety rules.
- Service, repair and optimise refrigeration, air-conditioning and heat-pump systems – from compressors and condensers to evaporators and controls.
- Evacuate, charge, set up and document systems; find leaks and replace parts.
- Handle refrigerants and pressure equipment safely; follow F-Gas rules, occupational safety and personal protective equipment.
- Coordinate with customers, facility management and other trades; read wiring diagrams and manufacturer documents.
- Service and emergency call-outs, seasonal peaks in summer and changing job sites are typical.
- Maintain measuring devices and tools, follow standards and meet quality standards.
