Automation Technician

Reports to: DC Support and Process Improvement Manager

Job Summary: Neuco is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Automation Technician to play a key role in maintaining, improving, and implementing automation solutions within our distribution center and office space. This role combines technical expertise and diligent task completion to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of our automated systems. The ideal candidate will be responsible for troubleshooting, repairing, and optimizing existing automation equipment while also leading and executing minor to moderate infrastructure improvement projects. The Conveyor Automation Technician is responsible for all equipment, conveyors, PLCs, Vision systems, and automation in Neuco’s two Bolingbrook IL Distribution Centers that process as many as 10,000 orders per day.

Responsibilities:

System Maintenance & Support:

• Perform preventative and reactive maintenance on automated systems, including conveyor systems, PLC-controlled equipment, and other automation technologies.
• Diagnose and resolve technical issues efficiently to minimize downtime.
• Provide technical support to warehouse operations staff, addressing questions and resolving issues related to automation systems and building infrastructure.
• Maintain and keep stock of all necessary spare parts and necessary implements.

System Optimization:

• Identify opportunities to improve system performance, reliability, and efficiency.
• Implement changes and upgrades to enhance automation processes.
• Fixing and identifying problems before they become a major issue.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, repairs, system modifications, and progress.
• Generate reports on system performance and identify trends or bottlenecks.
• Coordinate trials & stress tests to enhance efficiency and support Neuco’s automated systems.
• Assess operational systems for efficiency improvements and recommend necessary changes.
• Identify and mitigate risks in warehouse automation, implementing contingency plans to minimize downtime.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Collaborate closely with other technical staff, operations personnel, and vendors to ensure seamless integration and support of automation systems.
• Be able to educate necessary staff on the proper operation of pieces of equipment and our automation systems to mitigate errors and process inefficiencies.
• Coordinate with other departments and vendors to ensure success throughout the organization.
• Develops and maintains a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and empowerment.

Project Management:

• Execute minor infrastructure improvement projects related to automation, DC storage, system upgrades, new equipment installations, and process optimization initiatives.
• At times coordinate with internal teams, contractors, and vendors to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Monitor project progress, identify and resolve potential issues, and ensure projects meet quality standards.

Safety Compliance:

• Adhere to all safety regulations and procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
• Ensures systemic, safe, secure, and appropriate usage of the Neuco Distribution, Center IT systems, WMS system, automation, and equipment.

Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of industrial automation systems, including PLC programming, conveyor systems, and industrial networking.
• Mechanical and electrically proficient.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting electrical, mechanical, and control systems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and manuals.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Basic project management skills.

Desired Skills/Experience:

• Experience with PLC programming (Rockwell RS Logix 500/5000 and Allen Bradley is preferred).
• Experience with servo motion, motion controllers, vision systems, safety controllers, 3M Tape machines, Zebra printers, and Panther print and apply systems.
• Familiarity with various PLC platforms (Omron, Panasonic, Siemens, Schneider, GE).
• PLC programming skills, including S5 and S7 logic, are a plus.
• Experience with warehouse and distribution center operations.
• Experience with pneumatic systems.
• Cognex and Keyence industrial barcode scanning software - Setup and configuration
• 24v DC motorized roller conveyor experience
• Familiar with warehouse control systems (WCS) and their functionality/use in a warehouse environment
• Worked with industrial networks such as ethernet IP/ASi/Profinet

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, electronics, robotics, or related field and 3 years of experience leading projects in an automated warehouse environment.
• OR Associate’s degree in engineering, electronics, robotics, software, or a related field and 5 years of experience leading projects in an automated warehouse environment.
• This job is on-site in the DC and is not eligible for remote or hybrid work. It is a physically demanding environment requiring the ability to be on their feet for hours at a time over a warehouse concrete floor, able to lift 50 lbs., and able to walk up to 20k steps per day.