What are the responsibilities and job description for the Electrical Controls Tech position at Kilwins Chocolates Franchise?
This position is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving electrical control systems that support production and facility operations. The Electrical Controls Technician will perform preventive and corrective maintenance on electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic equipment; program and integrate control systems; and support installation and upgrades of new and existing machinery. This role ensures that production runs safely, reliably, and efficiently while adhering to Kilwins’ Core Values and operational standards.
Revised Essential Functions
- Personally, represents Kilwins’ Core Values, Core Purpose, Core Operating Standards, and Brand Promise in all activities.
- Provides integrity, honesty, and technical expertise that promotes Kilwins’ culture and mission.
- Reads, interprets, and documents electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic prints, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
- Troubleshoots, repairs, and understands programming of VFDs, PLCs, and HMIs from multiple manufacturers.
- Installs, calibrates, aligns, and maintains sensors, motors, conveyors, and other automated equipment.
- Implements upgrades and modifications to equipment, documenting all changes for compliance and future reference.
- Performs preventive maintenance on, motors, conveyors, and production machines by following OEM documentation, diagrams, and specifications.
- Collaborates with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to improve equipment reliability and reduce downtime.
- Provides training and technical support to operators and maintenance staff regarding control systems.
- Maintains a safe working environment by following MIOSHA and company safety policies.
- Communicates effectively across shifts and departments, documenting work in CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) when applicable.
- Other tasks as needed such as Facilities Maintenance, Equipment and complete line tear downs along with reassembly and sanitation.
Recommended Qualifications (New Section)
- Education/Training: Associate’s degree or technical certification in Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, or related field preferred. Equivalent experience considered.
- Experience: 3–5 years in electrical controls or industrial automation within a manufacturing environment, preferably food production.
- Technical Skills:
- Strong working knowledge of Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar PLC/HMI platforms.
- Experience with VFDs, motor controls, sensors, and instrumentation.
- Understanding of NFPA 70E, NEC codes, and MIOSHA regulations.
- Proficiency in troubleshooting and repairing automated packaging, conveying, and processing equipment.
- Basic mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic troubleshooting.
- Soft Skills: Strong communication, documentation, and teamwork abilities. Problem-solving mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
Physical and Work Environment
- Must be able to lift to 50 lbs. and work in hot/cold environments.
- Requires standing, bending, climbing, and working at heights or in confined spaces.
- Must be available for occasional overtime, weekends, and on-call support as needed.