Controls Technician

POSITION SUMMARY
The Controls Technician will work closely with the PLC Programmer and Automation Engineering team to support electrical control systems across multiple production sites. This position is responsible for panel fabrication, electrical assembly, installation, equipment wiring, troubleshooting, and field commissioning of automated machinery. Over time, this role will gain exposure to PLC/HMI programming, controls design, and system integration to support continuous improvement projects.
The ideal candidate is mechanically and electrically inclined, enjoys hands-on work, and has a strong background around automation and PLC programming. The Controls Technician will support both new equipment builds and modifications to existing systems while ensuring safety, quality, and reliability.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBLITLIES

• Build, assemble, and wire electrical control panels according to schematics, drawings, and UL/industry standards.
• Assist PLC Programmers and Engineers with installation, commissioning, and testing of automated equipment.
• Perform field wiring, cable routing, and hardware installation on new and existing machinery.
• Troubleshoot electrical and control issues on production equipment, including sensors, VFDs, motors, relays, safety circuits, and networked devices.
• Support HMI and PLC updates by loading programs, validating I/O operation, and verifying field devices.
• Perform preventative maintenance and corrective repairs on automation hardware to minimize downtime.
• Document changes and update wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and device lists as required. Willingness to learn AutoCAD
• Assist with equipment startups and line validation, ensuring safe and proper operation before release to production.
• Collaborate with engineers, maintenance, and operations to identify root causes and drive improvements.
• Participate in automation training to grow knowledge in PLCs, HMIs, networking, motion control, and industrial troubleshooting.
• Support vendor integration activities, panel FATs, machine upgrades, and site-wide control system projects.
• Ensure all work meets safety standards, electrical codes, and company procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS

• 5 years experience in electrical and mechanical automation, controls wiring, or panel building preferred.
• Associate’s degree in Electrical Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, or related field preferred but not required.
• Strong ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder diagrams, wiring drawings, and panel layouts. Strong knowledge around Allen Bradley and Siemens is required
• Familiarity with VFDs, industrial sensors, servo systems, relays, and electrical test equipment.
• Basic understanding of PLC controls—experience with Allen-Bradley hardware is a plus.
• Strong troubleshooting skills, mechanical aptitude, and willingness to learn programming and automation.
• Ability to work safely around energized equipment following LOTO and safety procedures.
• Solid communication skills and ability to work with multidisciplinary teams.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Hands-on mechanical/electrical aptitude
• Problem solving and root-cause analysis
• Ability to follow drawings and technical instructions
• Desire to grow into PLC/HMI programming
• Effective communication with engineers, maintenance, and operators
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and service calls
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn new technologies
• High accuracy and care in programming, testing, and documentation to ensure reliability and consistency across sites.
• Capable of clearly conveying technical information to engineers, operators, and management teams.
• Comfortable working across multiple facilities and handling diverse systems with minimal supervision.
• Proactively identifies opportunities to enhance system performance, safety, and maintainability.
• Efficient in balancing multiple priorities, managing travel schedules, and meeting deadlines for software updates and rollouts.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Must be able to lift 40 lbs and work in an area with loud noises and vibration.
• Must wear proper PPE (protective shoes, safety glasses, hearing protection, ETC.)
• Ability to work on ladders, in panels, and inside equipment safely.
• Travel 10-30% of the time is required. 90% Automation 4.0, 10% maintenance

The above description covers most significant duties performed but does not exclude other assignments not mentioned, the inclusion of which would be in conformity with the level of the job.