What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automation Technician position at AprilAire?
Overview
We are currently seeking a hands-on, mechanically inclined Automation Technician to support the development, testing, and implementation of next-generation manufacturing automation systems. In this role, you’ll work under the direction of Technology and Controls Engineers to assemble, test, and troubleshoot mechanical and electro-mechanical equipment as part of R&D and production improvement efforts.
This position is focused on building, iterating, and validating new mechanical automation solutions—not performing routine maintenance. You'll play a key role in helping new systems reach full production readiness and target OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), while also supporting handoff to production teams with clear documentation and training.
Responsibilities
Prototyping, Testing & Iteration
Keyan Stremikis
We are currently seeking a hands-on, mechanically inclined Automation Technician to support the development, testing, and implementation of next-generation manufacturing automation systems. In this role, you’ll work under the direction of Technology and Controls Engineers to assemble, test, and troubleshoot mechanical and electro-mechanical equipment as part of R&D and production improvement efforts.
This position is focused on building, iterating, and validating new mechanical automation solutions—not performing routine maintenance. You'll play a key role in helping new systems reach full production readiness and target OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), while also supporting handoff to production teams with clear documentation and training.
Responsibilities
Prototyping, Testing & Iteration
- Assemble and modify mechanical automation prototypes, fixtures, and test rigs based on engineering direction.
- Execute hands-on testing and troubleshooting of new automation systems (e.g., motion systems, tooling, pneumatics, EOAT, sensors).
- Support iterative design cycles by implementing changes, gathering feedback, and reporting results to engineers.
- Perform capability studies to evaluate system repeatability, stability, and process performance.
- Interpret technical manuals and datasheets for sensors, components, and actuators to ensure accurate integration and troubleshooting.
- Record test data, system behavior, and failure modes to aid in root cause analysis and design refinement.
- Assist in the installation, calibration, and startup of automation equipment on pilot or production lines.
- Run equipment in test scenarios and assist in optimizing for reliability, safety, and cycle time.
- Collaborate on handoff and training activities from R&D to production, including guiding operators and maintenance staff on new systems.
- Support integration of sensor feedback systems and assist Controls Engineers with debugging I/O and system behavior.
- Assist in creating and maintaining documentation such as One Point Lessons (OPLs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and system setup instructions.
- Follow all machine safety procedures and ensure systems are operated with guarding and compliance measures in place.
- Participate in risk assessments and provide feedback on safety improvements during testing and pilot phases.
- Work closely with Technology Engineers, Controls Engineers, and fellow technicians in a fast-paced, R&D-focused environment.
- Communicate clearly and professionally with team members to report status, escalate issues, and suggest improvements.
- Demonstrate the ability to work independently with minimal supervision, staying accountable to assigned tasks and timelines.
- Be flexible and open to shifting priorities based on project timelines and test results.
- Associate’s degree or technical diploma in Mechanical Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, or related field preferred.
- Ability to commute between our facilities in Madison, Sun Prairie and Poynette as needed.
- 2 years of experience working with automation equipment, industrial machinery, or R&D environments.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with tooling, actuators, pneumatics, sensors, and basic robotic components.
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, wiring diagrams, pneumatic schematics, and technical component manuals.
- Proven ability to conduct performance and capability testing on integrated automation systems involving mechanical, electrical, and sensor components in automation systems.
- Familiarity with documentation development (e.g., SOPs, OPLs) and training support during new system rollout.
- Comfortable using measurement tools (calipers, indicators, multimeters) and mechanical hand tools.
- Basic familiarity with PLCs, HMIs, or sensor integration is a plus.
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of independent troubleshooting and follow-through.
- Use hand tools and quality measurement devices (e.g., calipers, gauges, multimeters) to assist in assembly, adjustment, and validation of mechanical systems.
- Apply basic fabrication skills using machine shop equipment (e.g., drill press, band saw, grinder) to create guarding, brackets, or other custom parts needed to support and sustain automation development.
Keyan Stremikis
