PLC Controls Technician - 1st Shift - Salina

Great Plains Manufacturing is seeking a Programmable Logic Control (PLC) Technician to support all new and existing automated manufacturing equipment. This role is responsible for monitoring and maintaining all controls and automation necessary for continuous production flow. This position also supports implementation of new automation projects and equipment upgrades and identifies areas and improvement ideas to mitigate safety and ergonomic risk, increase product quality and reduce overall production cost.

This position works Monday through Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., plus overtime on Fridays, as required. The Controls Technician is based at the new Construction Equipment Paint facility in Salina, KS. This position may require occasional overnight travel for training purposes. 

Primary Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Monitor and maintain Programable Logic Control devices, including programming adjustments and troubleshooting Allen Bradley and Omron programmable controllers.
• Monitor and maintain Human/Machine Interfaces, including programming adjustments and troubleshooting Allen Bradley and Omron HMIs.
• Monitor and maintain Variable Frequency Drives, including programming adjustments and troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with GPM Production, GPM Engineering, GPM IT group on operational, controls, network and automation solutions. 
• Support Production staff in operation and management of production equipment ensuring maximum equipment effectiveness and efficiency. Assist with startup and shutdown of equipment.
• Troubleshoots controls issues, recommend improvements and solutions to support production. 
• Support implementation of improvements.
• Support GPM Maintenance with equipment repairs and preventative maintenance.

Long Term Objectives/ Job Responsibilities Expansion:

• Learn Fanuc Paint Robotic Programing to assist Robot Engineer and Technicians.
• Learn Industrial networking best practices and troubleshooting.
• Assist creation of new automated cell concepts and support new automation project implementation.
• Assist with maintaining GPM safety and controls standards. 

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

• Experience with setup, operation and programming of PLC controlled automation 
• Willing to work overtime and occasional off-shifts as required for robot programming
• Experience in Automated Manufacturing helpful
• Excellent communication skills 
• Understand team concepts and be a strong team player
• Excel in fast-paced, high-pressure situations
• Ability to be flexible, work with interruptions and shift priorities as needed
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Excellent Time Management & Manufacturing Organizational Skills
• Drive culture of Lean Manufacturing and implementation of change to streamline processes

Preferred Education and Experience: 

Associate degree, Diploma/Certificate, or equivalent work-related experience required in:

• Electrical Technology
• Automation/Controls Technology
• Mechanical Technology
• Computer Technology
• Manufacturing Technology

 At Great Plains Manufacturing, our people make the difference, making our company a great place to work and grow. If you are self-motivated, have a passion to succeed and value teamwork, we invite you to apply to join our team. For over 45 years, Great Plains Mfg, has been known as a world-class manufacturer of agriculture, farm and landscaping equipment in Central Kansas. Now a Kubota company, we have recently added a new construction equipment division. With over 2,300 dedicated employees, Great Plains Manufacturing continues its dedication toward innovation and professional growth, while maintaining our family culture and community values. Grow with us! Visit our Careers page at www.WorkForGPM.com.