What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automation Controls Specialist position at Woodland Foods?
This key role will primarily be responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and enhancing our automation systems, control equipment, and instrumentation to ensure optimal production line performance. Your expertise in PLC programming, industrial automation, and system optimization will play a critical role in maximizing efficiency, reducing downtime, and maintaining high safety and quality standards in our food production processes.
Key Responsibilities:- Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of control systems, automation equipment, and instrumentation to ensure continuous and reliable operation of production lines. Work with the maintenance team to diagnose and resolve technical issues quickly, minimizing production disruptions.
- System Optimization: Collaborate with engineering and production teams to identify opportunities for system improvements, process optimization, and automation enhancements. Implement changes to improve the' efficiency, consistency, and safety of food manufacturing processes.
- PLC Programming & Configuration: Develop, program, and configure PLC systems to automate food processing and packaging operations. To achieve maximum production efficiency, ensure seamless PLC integration with existing equipment, human-machine interfaces (HMIs), machinery, and systems.
- Preventive Maintenance: Execute and improve preventive maintenance programs for automation and control systems. Regularly inspect and calibrate systems to ensure they operate at peak performance and reduce the likelihood of unexpected failures.
- Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, repairs, modifications, and upgrades to control systems and automation equipment. Provide detailed reports on system performance, identifying areas for improvement and recommending solutions to enhance operational efficiency.
- Safety & Compliance: Adhere to strict safety protocols, industry standards, and food safety regulations in the maintenance and operation of automated systems. Identify potential hazards in automation systems and implement corrective actions to ensure personnel safety and the integrity of food products.
- Training & Support: Provide operators and production staff with training and technical support on the proper use, troubleshooting, and maintenance of automation systems. Foster a culture of knowledge-sharing and continuous improvement within the team.
- Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, quality assurance, and production, to ensure that automation systems meet the needs of the food manufacturing process and align with production goals.
- Continuous Improvement: Stay current with the latest industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in industrial automation and food processing. Proactively suggest and implement improvements to automation systems and processes.
- Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field or equivalent experience.
- Proven experience in automation controls, PLC programming, and industrial automation in a manufacturing environment, preferably in food production.
- Strong knowledge of control systems, instrumentation, and automation equipment (e.g., PLCs, HMIs, SCADA).
- Experience with preventive maintenance and troubleshooting in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of food safety standards and compliance requirements.
- Ability to analyze production data and system performance to identify opportunities for improvement.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks efficiently.
- 3 years in an Automation and Controls role within a manufacturing environment.
- Knowledge of Continuous Improvement methodologies (TPM, Lean, Six Sigma).
- Strong communication and training skills for effective knowledge transfer.
- Experience with high-speed packaging lines and production equipment in food, chemical, or pharmaceutical industries.
- Knowledge of SAP (PM, work orders, asset management).
- Experience with Putty, Cisco Network Switches, AutoCAD, and file management systems.
- Expertise in PLC programming, troubleshooting, and maintenance, particularly with Allen-Bradley PLCs.
- Strong understanding of industrial automation systems, including HMIs, VFDs, and motor control.
- Basic knowledge of electronics, electrical theory, and instrumentation (sensors, transmitters, actuators).
- Skilled in reading electrical and instrumentation schematics and technical manuals.
- Attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality work and safety protocols.
The physical demands described here represent those an employee must meet to perform this job's essential functions successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
- Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and frequently bend and move about the facility
- Frequently required to lift to 55 pounds (anything over 55 lbs., team lift)
- Must be able to climb ladders and maneuver in small spaces
This position's performance requires exposure to manufacturing and warehouse areas, which may require personal protective equipment under certain conditions.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here represent those encountered by employees while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. This position does not allow for remote work.
- Works in an office and manufacturing environment
- Occasional exposure to dust, odors, and noise
- Occasional exposure to a plant that is not temperature-controlled
Woodland Gourmet hires exceptional people to perform a wide variety of important functions that contribute to the success of our organization. We offer a competitive compensation package with benefits. The hourly rate for this role will be $ 40.00 to $ 45.00. This position is eligible for an annual bonus (based on the incentive program terms and conditions). Based on your qualifications, previous experience, and transferable skills, the company will determine, at its discretion, the hourly rate offered and will reflect the market conditions and cost of living for your geographic location.
Our benefits program is designed to support our team in leading healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives. We deeply value the contributions of our team members and are committed to offering a competitive total compensation package. Additionally, we offer medical, prescription drug plans, dental, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, vision insurance, flexible spending account, health savings account, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, voluntary benefits (hospital, critical illness, personal accident, legal & identify theft), 401k with company match, paid family leave, paid holidays and paid time off.
Woodland Gourmet participates in the federal E-Verify program. As part of the hiring process, we will verify the information provided on your Form I-9 to confirm your eligibility to work in the United States.
E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from your Form I-9 to government records to confirm employment eligibility. Please visit the E-Verify website for more information on E-Verify and your rights.
Salary : $40 - $45