Dairy Automation Technician

Job Description: Dairy Automation Technician

Michigan Dairy Tech is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Dairy Automation Technician to join our team. In this role, you will design, program, build, install, and support various control systems for dairy automation equipment at dairy and livestock facilities. This position combines electrical design, PLC programming, panel building, and field installation while providing excellent customer service and technical support to producers.

Responsibilities:

• Support, troubleshoot, and maintain existing dairy farm machine automation control systems, including crowd gates, cooling fans, water sprinklers, feed stall soakers, side curtains, and other automated equipment.
• Design and program new automation projects by specifying components, building, assembling, wiring, bench testing in-house, installing, and performing on-site startup.
• Generate electrical schematics, panel layouts, and supporting documentation for each project (AutoCAD experience not required).
• Write and manage PLC and HMI programs using Allen-Bradley and AutomationDirect Productivity Suite components and software.
• Use TeamViewer to remotely diagnose customer issues and determine the best course of action.
• Perform on-site startup and support as needed, including ABB and Allen-Bradley VFD commissioning.
• Complete service documentation and communicate effectively with customers.
• Travel regularly to customer dairy and livestock facilities.
• Safely operate a company vehicle and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Participate in an on-call rotation, including evenings, weekends, and emergency service calls.
• Work safely around livestock, machinery, electricity, and varying weather conditions.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and professional work environment while delivering excellent customer service.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• PLC programming experience (2 years preferred but not required).
• Ability to write PLC and HMI programs from scratch and modify existing standard circuits and program designs for new projects.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve PLC, HMI, hardware, and software issues.
• Ability to perform on-site support as needed for startup, including ABB and Allen-Bradley VFD commissioning.
• Ability to design electrical schematics and control panel layouts while specifying all required components for purchasing.
• Experience with industrial automation, electrical controls, agricultural equipment, or dairy equipment preferred but not required.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to lift 50–70 pounds and work in physically demanding environments, including confined spaces, at heights, and varying weather conditions.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $36,362 - $49,048