Controls Technician

Summary/Objective

Support manufacturing operations to promote safety, efficiency, and productivity by maintaining automated control systems, including PLC programming, electrical troubleshooting, automation projects, robot path programming, and integration of other industrial automation equipment and systems.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Installation & Maintenance:
  • Install, calibrate, and maintain industrial control systems, sensors, actuators, and related equipment.
  • Perform routine and preventive maintenance on automation systems.
  • Ensure compliance with electrical and safety codes.
  • Upkeep of Safety Devices including Light Curtain and Safety Scanners. Implement or upgrade wherever needed to maintain a safe workplace.
• Troubleshooting & Repairs:
  • Diagnose and repair issues with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives), and robotic systems.
  • Analyze electrical schematics, ladder logic, and control wiring diagrams.
  • Work with production teams to minimize equipment downtime.
  • Support robotic paths and operations for multiple processes; presses, manipulators, waterjets, bonders.
  • Upkeep of electrical panels, making sure they are kept neat and clean.
• Documentation & Compliance:
  • Maintain accurate records of system changes, maintenance activities, and troubleshooting logs.
  • Ensure all control systems meet industry standards and company policies.
• Collaboration and Support
  • Collaborate with engineers, maintenance teams, and operators to enhance automation processes.
  • Provide training for operators and maintenance staff on control system functionality.
• Integrate new automation and controls system projects.
• Modify and assist in upgrading existing equipment controls for continuous improvements.
• Work on 6S projects related to Controls.

Required Competencies

Business Acumen, Communication, Consultation, Critical Evaluation, Engineering process knowledge, Global & Cultural Awareness, Relationship Management, Statistical and analytical knowledge, and Ethical Practice.

Supervisory Responsibility

There are no direct reports for this position.

Work Environment

This job operates in a professional manufacturing office and shop-floor environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment. May involve working in high-noise environments and around heavy machinery. Requires flexibility for shift work, overtime, and emergency call-ins.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift or move office products and supplies, up to 20 pounds.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This position is full-time. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday. This position regularly requires long hours and weekend work.

Travel

Travel is limited and primarily local during the business day. However, some out-of-area and overnight travel may be expected from time to time as requested by the customer or Maintenance Manager.

Required Education, Skills, and Experience

• 2–4-year college degree OR technical certification in Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Four or more years of manufacturing experience.
• Knowledge of Allen-Bradley PLC’s including RSLogix 5000 and RSLogix 500 platforms.
• Knowledge of industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus).
• Experience with electrical and pneumatic control systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and ladder logic.
• Knowledge of Fanac and Yaskawa / Motoman Robotic units is a plus.
• Knowledge of electrical circuits including 24VDC, 120VAC and 480VAC.
• Working knowledge of computers and office software.
• Strong technical and mechanical aptitude.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Keen attention to detail and problem-solving techniques.
• Safety consciousness.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.