Automation Technician

Job Summary
The Automation Technician is responsible for supporting the installation, startup, maintenance, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing and packaging equipment. This position plays a critical role in ensuring production reliability, equipment performance, safety, and operational efficiency across manufacturing facilities. The ideal candidate possesses strong mechanical, electrical, and controls experience and is skilled in diagnosing and repairing complex automation systems in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Reporting Responsibilities
• Reports to the designated Operations Leader.

Supervisory Responsibilities
• None.
• May provide technical guidance and training to operators, maintenance technicians, and
other team members.

Duties/Responsibilities
Automation & Equipment Support
• Install, commission, and support automated manufacturing and packaging equipment.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and controls-related issues.
• Diagnose machine faults utilizing PLC software, HMIs, electrical schematics, and
diagnostic tools.
• Support equipment startups, machine upgrades, and automation improvement initiatives.
• Assist with equipment integration and optimization projects.

Maintenance & Reliability
• Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance activities.
• Respond to production downtime events and implement timely corrective actions.
• Maintain equipment documentation, maintenance records, and spare parts inventories.
• Identify root causes of equipment failures and recommend long-term corrective actions.
• Support initiatives to improve equipment uptime, reliability, and operational efficiency.

Controls & Electrical Systems
• Troubleshoot, maintain, and repair:
o Motors and motor control systems
o Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
o Servo systems
o Sensors and instrumentation
o Machine safety systems
o Industrial communication and network systems
• Support control panel assembly, wiring, modifications, and equipment upgrades.
• Assist with programming modifications and controls optimization as required.

Production & Team Support
• Provide technical support to production and maintenance personnel.
• Assist in training operators and technicians on equipment operation and troubleshootingprocedures.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Safety teams to achieve
operational goals.
• Participate in Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives.
• Assist in identifying opportunities for process improvements and automation
enhancements.

Safety & Compliance
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
• Adhere to Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), machine guarding, electrical safety, and OSHA
requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Support GMP, HACCP, and quality system requirements where applicable.
• Participate in safety audits, corrective actions, and continuous safety improvement
efforts.

Required Skills/Abilities
• Strong troubleshooting, diagnostic, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, and technical manuals.
• Working knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, pneumatics, hydraulics, and
industrial controls.
• Knowledge of industrial automation systems and manufacturing equipment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and computerized maintenance management systems
(CMMS).
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
• Self-motivated with a commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Education and Experience
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical training, certification, associate degree, or equivalent education in Industrial
Maintenance, Mechatronics, Automation Technology, Electrical Technology, or a related
field preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in industrial maintenance, automation,
manufacturing, or a related environment.
• Experience troubleshooting automated production equipment is preferred.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Ability and willingness to travel as business needs require.

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar PLC platforms.
• Experience with packaging equipment, conveyors, robotics, or automated material
handling systems.
• OSHA, NFPA 70E, or other industrial safety certifications.
• Experience in food, healthcare, packaging, or consumer products manufacturing
environments.

Physical Requirements
• Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, kneel, and work in a manufacturing environment for
extended periods.
• Ability to work at heights using ladders, lifts, and elevated platforms.
• Ability to distinguish wire colors and perform detailed technical work.
• Ability to work around moving machinery, electrical systems, and industrial equipment
while following all safety procedures.

Additional Duties
• The job duties and responsibilities listed above are representative of the nature and level
of work assigned and are not necessarily all-inclusive.
• Additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned by management as business
needs require.