Field Resource Technician

Description

Cates Control Systems in Plano, TX is seeking a highly skilled Field Resource Technician to join our team. This advanced-level role is ideal for a seasoned professional with extensive experience in control panel wiring, PLC systems, and field installations. This position requires frequent travel to client sites across the United States, where you will play a critical role in installing, troubleshooting, and supporting automation systems in real-world production environments.

Joining the Cates team is both challenging and rewarding. You will become an integral part of a talented and dynamic team in a fast-paced industry. If you are a self-driven expert who thrives both in the shop and on customer sites, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Wire, assemble, and fully fabricate control panels, including back panels and enclosures, using supplied drawings and schematics 
• Travel to client sites to support installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of PLC-based control systems 
• Collaborate closely with the Field Service Technician team on-site and remotely 
• Ensure all wiring is labeled correctly at both ends, free of defects, and compliant with company standards 
• Verify all terminations are secure and meet quality expectations 
• Interpret and review electrical and mechanical drawings; identify discrepancies and communicate corrections 
• Mark all drawing changes in red and obtain proper approval prior to implementation 
• Complete all required documentation, including time tracking and check sheets, using company systems (Epicor) 
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment both in the shop and in the field 
• Identify potential project risks early and proactively communicate solutions to prevent delays or cost overruns 
• Provide leadership and mentorship to junior wiring technicians as needed 

Technical Skills & Core Competencies

• Strong electrical expertise in wiring Industrial Control Panels 
• Solid understanding and hands-on experience with wiring. 
• Proficient in reading and interpreting all electrical and mechanical drawings with minimal assistance 
• Deep understanding of control system components, including PLCs, VFDs, circuit breakers, relays, and terminal blocks 
• Ability to identify at least 95% of hardware components within a control system 
• Strong knowledge of OSHA Standards and Safety 
• Expert-level understanding of wire gauges, ampacities, and proper applications (Metric and UL standards)      
• Proficient in recognizing and installing wire labels and device tags 
• Skilled in panel layout, fabrication, and full enclosure builds 
• Ability to identify and troubleshoot wiring and design issues independently 

Fabrication & Tool Proficiency

• Proficient with all fabrication shop (FAB) power tools and their proper use 
• Confident using hand tools and power tools with little to no supervision 
• Skilled in reading and using measuring devices (metric and standard tape measures) 
• Ability to differentiate materials (e.g., stainless steel vs. painted steel) and apply proper tooling techniques 

Travel & Field Work Requirements

• Comfortable traveling frequently to customer locations across North America 
• Ability to work independently in client environments while maintaining professionalism and safety standards      
• Strong communication skills when interacting with customers and internal teams on-site 
• Flexibility to adapt to varying job site conditions and schedules 

 Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED required 
• Minimum 5 years of experience wiring control panels in an industrial or manufacturing environment 
• Proven experience working with PLC systems and control panel layouts 
• Demonstrated experience in a lead or senior wiring technician role 
• Industry experience with electro-mechanical components required 
• Familiarity with UL 508A and NEC standards 

Additional Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership and project execution skills 
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and provide guidance to others 
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality 
• Experience using ERP/job tracking systems such as I-PReP and Epicor 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, and work in various positions for extended periods 
• Capability to perform hands-on work in both shop and field environments 

More About Us

Cates Control Systems was founded over 40 years ago and is a systems integration company that partners with manufacturing firms to develop and implement automation solutions to increase production, improve quality, and reduce costs. Our customers span diverse industries including food processing, manufacturing, and industrial production across North America and beyond.

We are committed to delivering high-quality solutions backed by exceptional service and support. Our culture is rooted in honesty, integrity, commitment, and reliability, with a strong family-oriented atmosphere and guiding core principles.
 

Job Type: Full-time – Salaried Exempt

Salary: $55,000 - $65,000

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 7 days a week available. Weekdays work 7:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Weekend availability – Saturdays and Sundays (only when traveling or working at a client location)

Supplemental pay types:

• Onsite bonus & Comp time

Willingness to travel:

• 75% (Preferred)

Salary : $55,000 - $65,000