Senior Controls Technician

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Troubleshoot and resolve automation and control issues that impact production, quality, and safety.

• Independently perform advanced troubleshooting of automation, instrumentation, and control systems for automated food processing, robotic, and material transfer systems.

• Lead engineering updates, changes, testing, and commissioning of automation modifications for multiple high-speed production lines.

• Design, implement, and recommend automation solutions for existing equipment and new production line projects.

• Perform scheduled and condition-based preventive maintenance on automation and control systems.

• Document completed work in the CMMS through maintenance work orders; create and prioritize follow-up work as needed.

• Research, recommend, and implement automation improvements to enhance equipment reliability and uptime.

• Plan, lead, and execute automation preventive maintenance initiatives to minimize unplanned downtime.

• Apply creative problem-solving and root cause analysis to identify systemic automation issues and implement long-term solutions.

• Train, coach, and mentor operators, maintenance technicians, and peers on automation systems and procedures, particularly for packaging and high-speed equipment.

• Lead and support special projects related to automation upgrades, retrofits, and new equipment installations.

• Collaborate with peers and cross-functional partners to share technical expertise and standardize automation practices.

• Conduct obsolescence assessments of control systems; identify high-risk components and develop upgrade and replacement strategies.

• Recommend automation spare parts and manage critical automation inventory.

• Perform additional instrumentation and electrical duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

EDUCATION

• Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field or

• Equivalent combination of education and experience.

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation or controls within a manufacturing environment (food or high-speed packaging preferred).

• Strong knowledge of control panel design, layout, and troubleshooting.

• Extensive experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, VFDs, and HMIs.

• Hands-on experience with SCADA systems.

• Proven ability to communicate effectively and resolve issues across multiple departments and organizational levels.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

• Ability to read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics.

• Demonstrated capability to act as a technical leader and trainer within assigned plant areas or machine centers.

• Strong understanding of automation, instrumentation, and control products and related engineering principles.

• Familiarity with automation suppliers and OEM equipment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the following physical job requirements, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Ability to endure daily walking, standing, crouching, lifting (in excess of 60 lbs), twisting, climbing, and reaching.

• Ability to work in hot, humid, and cold manufacturing environments.

• Ability to work in confined or crowded spaces for extended periods.

• Ability to bend, crawl, and climb ladders for extended durations.

• Ability to stand and walk for 6+ hours per shift.

• Ability to reach and grasp for 6+ hours per shift.

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