Oaktown Spice Shop is Hiring a Plant Controls Technician / Automation Specialist Near Pedricktown, NJ
Title: Plant Controls Technician / Automation Specialist Reports To: Vice President of Operations Overview:The Facilities Maintenance Mechanic is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving automated systems and control equipment within our manufacturing plant. This role requires a deep understanding of control systems, electrical systems, and industrial automation to ensure optimal performance and reliability of production processes. Duties and Responsibilities:
Diagnose and repair issues with PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives), and other automation equipment
Perform routine inspections and preventive maintenance on control systems and automation equipment to ensure continuous and efficient operation
Develop and modify PLC programs using software such as Allen-Bradley RSLogix, Siemens Step 7, or similar platforms
Configure and program HMI interfaces for effective operator control and data visualization
Integrate new machinery and equipment into existing control systems
Lead and support automation projects from conception through implementation, including project planning, design, installation, testing, and commissioning
Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to identify automation improvement opportunities and implement solutions
Provide technical support and training to maintenance and production personnel on the operation and troubleshooting of automated systems
Develop and maintain documentation for control systems, including wiring diagrams, schematics, and software programs
Be readily available for emergency repairs in breakdown situations
Maintain communication with other departments, management and employees and notify them of any problems and/or concerns that may restrict the efficiency of the plant, production, or warehouse facilities
Ensure all paperwork is filled out in a clear, legible, and accurate format, and completed with required information. Ensure all required information is documented in accordance with SOPs
Assist in maintaining parts and supplies inventory by reporting low supply levels to management
Utilizing continuous improvement mindset, assisting in identifying opportunities to improve processes
Maintain a clean, sanitary, and safe work area
Follow all required work safe practices. This would include lockout-tagout requirements and wearing of all required PPE in designated areas, confined space safety, safe chemical handling, fall restraints, etc
Responsible for following all food safety rules, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs),and food quality rules related to designated area
Perform other duties as assigned by management, within scope and abilities
Job Requirements:
Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation Technology, or related field; Bachelor’s degree preferred
Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in industrial automation, controls, or a related field
Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi)
Experience with HMI and SCADA systems (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition)
Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Modbus)
Familiarity with electrical schematics and control panel design
Basic understanding of robotics and motion control systems is a plus
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously
Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality and continuous improvement
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
Ability to diagnose problems and find solutions
Mechanical mindset with ability to think outside the box
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and other departments
Ability to operate a variety of vehicles and equipment in a safe and effective manner
Ability to work in a fast paced, cold temperature environment
Experience working on processing machinery in the foodservice industry a plus
Understand and abide by all safety regulations as well as policies and procedure set forth by Verde Farms
Ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance
Ability to work overtime, as warranted by business needs