Controls Technician

Description

Position Summary:

In this position, you will play a key role as a Controls Engineer. In this role you will perform inspections, maintenance, troubleshooting, testing, installation and repairs of plant equipment and systems. Plant equipment includes plant control system, instrumentation, breakers, valves, motors, fans, electrical systems, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), and other associated equipment. This position will also update and maintain the plant manufacturing software and Ethernet networking system. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Write new PLC Logic changes as directed by the Manufacturing Engineering staff.
• Use troubleshooting skills to diagnose system, PLC, and equipment problems.
• Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on plant equipment and systems.
• Perform installation/replacement of plant equipment and systems.
• Assist in electrical troubleshooting of AC and DC electrical systems.
• Assist in the execution of the preventative maintenance program.
• Maintain and troubleshoot plant and workstation network communications.
• Install revisions or modifications to plant systems, update controls drawings and schematics.
• Communicate and interact with inter-departmental personnel, vendors, and customers as necessary to accomplish tasks.
• Follow all approved plant operating, maintenance and health and safety procedures.
• Participate in Hazard assessments.
• Perform other duties, as assigned.
• This position may be required to provide after hours support to support emergency work, etc.

Requirements

  Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required; Electrical Engineering Degree or similar desired
• 5+ years in industrial automation, controls, or electrical systems.
• PLC programming/troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley preferred).
• Experience with instrumentation, schematics, and motion control.
• Strong electrical background required
• Strong safety focus and teamwork mindset.
• Hands-on experience with robotics, automation systems, and HMI interfaces is required
• Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP, and GMP regulations
• Ability to work in a cold, fast-paced environment and stand for extended periods
• Solid communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime and weekends, based on need

Work Environment:

• Work takes place in a food manufacturing facility with temperatures ranging from -15°F (freezer areas) to 50°F (cooler and production areas). Employees must be comfortable working in cold environments for extended periods, depending on assigned area
• Requires frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, twisting, and lifting. Must be able to regularly lift and move items weighing 50 pounds or more
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times, which may include:

o Gloves

o Smocks

o Hairnets

o Face coverings

o Ear protection

o Steel-toed footwear

• Environment includes active forklifts and pallet jack traffic, conveyor systems, and automated machinery. Strict adherence to all safety protocols, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and food safety regulations are required
• May involve overtime, including weekends and holidays, based on production needs.
• Noise levels may range from moderate to high
• Exposure to food allergens, sanitation chemicals, and cleaning agents, all within a controlled and safety-focused environment