Industrial Controls & Automation Technician

What a day looks like

You start your shift walking the line, scanning for issues and opportunities. A servo axis throws a fault—you dive into the PLC, analyze the ladder logic, and adjust parameters to bring the cell back online. Before lunch, you run infrared thermography and ultrasonic testing to catch emerging problems; after lunch, you analyze power quality and perform vibration analysis, laser interferometry, and ball-bar checks to predict failures before they happen. You lead a quick CI huddle, log actions in the CMMS, and source a higher-reliability component to reduce repeat downtime. If needed, you step into the shop to turn a part on the lathe, hit the drill press or grinder, or run a quick weld to keep production moving. You wrap up by updating documentation, preparing input for an equipment upgrade cost analysis, and coaching a newer technician through a tricky electrical diagnostic.

Core responsibilities

• Execute expert-level break/fix and preventive maintenance on mechanical and electrical systems; design improvements for complex equipment and integrated systems.
• Program, troubleshoot, and analyze advanced control systems to resolve software, hardware, and configuration issues.
• Apply predictive technologies—infrared thermography, ultrasonic testing, power quality analysis, laser interferometry, ball bar, and vibration analysis—to assess equipment health and plan proactive maintenance.
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement initiatives using CI tools and methodologies to drive process, results, and cost savings.
• Identify and source parts, supplies, and repair items; propose engineered alternatives that improve reliability.
• Independently perform maintenance work to industry standards; uphold 5S and strong housekeeping.
• Set up and operate machine tools (lathe, drill press, grinder, and others) and perform welding as needed to fabricate or repair parts.
• Research emerging methods, tools, and innovations; implement best practices across our facilities and keep documentation current.
• Provide inputs for cost analyses covering new equipment, rebuild proposals, savings, and innovations.
• Maintain records, review CMMS histories, and analyze data to guide decisions.
• Contribute technical content for sales quotations and handle time-and-materials tasks when required.
• Train and mentor less-experienced technicians; take on project management responsibilities when assigned.
• Pursue on-the-job training and self-study for ongoing development; follow all safety policies and practice strong situational awareness.

What you bring

• High school diploma or GED.
• Associate degree with a technical focus and 7+ years of industry experience; or 10+ years of industry experience.
• Proficiency with predictive technologies (e.g., vibration analysis, laser interferometer), precision alignments, and maintenance of relevant process equipment.
• Fluency in electrical, mechanical, fluid power, and control systems; able to diagnose, develop alternatives, and complete repairs.
• Comfort with hand tools and specialty tools; willingness to travel as needed.
• Six Sigma experience preferred.

Physical demands and work environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands/fingers to handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb, ascend/descend or balance to heights that may require a ladder or lift; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl in confined spaces; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move more than 50 pounds. The employee is regularly required to use close vision and color vision. The employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions and risk of electrical shock. Work is typically performed in a factory environment and is usually very loud. In the factory environment, the employee may be exposed to hazardous materials and/or greasy or slippery factory floors.

You should be proficient in

• PLC Troubleshooting Skills
• Electrical Schematics
• 120/208/240/480 Voltage Systems
• Troubleshooting Industrial Automation Equipment
• PLC Programming Experience
• Electrical / Electronic Systems
• Industrial Electrical Experience
• Industrial Electrical Systems
• Electrical Systems & Diagnostics (Heavy Equipment)