How to Get Into Commercial Kitchen Equipment Repair
Most commercial kitchen equipment techs did not plan on it. They came from appliance repair, HVAC, automotive, maintenance or the military, and found a trade with steady demand and no shortage of work.
1. Build the basics
You need a working understanding of electricity (120/208/240V, single and three phase), gas combustion and safety, and basic refrigeration. A community college HVAC/R or electrical course covers most of it.
2. Get your EPA 608
Required to handle refrigerants, inexpensive, and almost every service company wants it.
3. Start where you can learn
Service companies, dealers and manufacturers hire helpers and Tech I roles and provide factory training. Coffee and ice machine companies (Easy Ice, coffee service firms) are a good door in because the equipment is focused and the training is structured.
4. Carry your own skills over
Mechanics and maintenance techs already know diagnostics, reading wiring diagrams and working against the clock. Say so on your resume.
5. Get certified
CFESA certification shows employers you know the work. Read our CFESA guide.