PLC Programmer

Tired of working weekends? Come join a growing production team that offers a Monday - Friday schedule.

We have an opening for a PLC Programmer to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing, programming, supporting and implementing control and automation systems for our advanced equipment.

Freshpack is a custom cheese packaging company that develops and innovates cheese products and packaging. Our products can be found in all 50 states and in most major retailers. Over the past 25 years, our team has grown from 15 to 290 employees. It is an exciting time to join our team, as we are poised for substantial growth over the next 3-5 years.

Duties/Responsibilities

PLC Programming & Troubleshooting

• Develop, modify, and optimize PLC programs for food processing and packaging equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve PLC-relate downtime and performance issues.
• Implement PLC upgrades, migrations, and backups for reliability.

HMI & SCADA Development

• Design and configure HMI and SCADA systems for real-time monitoring.
• Develop alarm management, data logging, and reporting for process tracking.

Electrical & Control Systems Support

• Read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and wiring diagrams.
• Configure and troubleshoot VFDs, servos, industrial sensors, and networks.
• Control panel design, wiring, and commissioning.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all systems meet FDA, USDA, SQF, and HAACP standards.
• Implement machine safety interlocks, emergency stops, and lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures.
• Support sanitation-friendly automation designs to meet food industry hygiene requirements.

Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement

• Analyze and improve automation processes to reduce waste and enhance efficiency.
• Work with production teams to enhance OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).

Collaboration & Documentation

• Work closely with engineering, maintenance, production, and quality teams.
• Maintain up-to-date documentation for PLC programs, electrical schematics, and troubleshooting guides.
• Train maintenance teams on PLC and control system operation.

Qualifications & Skills

Education & Experience:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field a plus but not required.
• 5 years of experience in PLC programming and controls within food manufacturing.

Technical Skills:

• Experience with Allen-Bradley (RSLogix, Studio 5000), Siemens (TIA Portal), Schneider, or Omron PLCs.
• Strong knowledge of food-grade sensors, actuators, and automation systems.
• Familiarity with industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Modbus).
• Understanding of SCADA, MES, and data analytics for process monitoring.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.

Work Environment:

• Food production facility with exposure to machinery, high humidity, and temperature variations.
• Must follow GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and food safety protocols.
• May require on-call support.

Why Join Us?

• Work on exciting, high-impact projects in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
• Be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking team that values your input and encourages professional growth.
• Opportunities for career advancement.
• Medical, dental, vision, company-provided life insurance & more.
• 401(k) program
• Referral program
• Get paid every Friday!