Automations Controls Technician (Nights)

About SunOpta

SunOpta delivers customized supply chain solutions and innovation for top brands, retailers, and foodservice providers across a broad portfolio of beverages, broths, and better-for-you snacks. With over 50 years of expertise, SunOpta fuels customers’ growth with high-quality, sustainability-forward solutions distributed through retail, club, foodservice, and e-commerce channels across North America.

Job Summary

The Automation Controls Technician I supports the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of automated control systems and industrial equipment. This entry-level role works under close supervision to ensure manufacturing and facility automation systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably.

The Automation Controls Technician II is responsible for independently troubleshooting, maintaining, and improving automated control systems and industrial equipment. This mid-level role supports production and facility operations by diagnosing complex control issues, performing system modifications, and assisting with automation projects. The Technician II serves as a technical resource for junior technicians and works closely with engineering and operations teams.

Essential Functions Of The Job

Automations Controls Technician I:

• Assist with installation, startup, and maintenance of PLC-based control systems
• Troubleshoot basic electrical, mechanical, and control system issues
• Support preventive and corrective maintenance on automated equipment
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals
• Perform basic PLC monitoring, I/O checks, and parameter adjustments
• Assist with sensor, actuator, VFD, HMI, and motor troubleshooting
• Document maintenance activities, repairs, and system changes
• Follow safety procedures, lockout/tagout (LOTO), and company standards
• Work collaboratively with maintenance, engineering, and operations teams
• Escalate complex issues to senior technicians or engineers as needed
• Accountable to the SunOpta Manufacturing Food Safety and Quality Principles.
• All other duties, as assigned.
  
  

Automations Controls Technician II

• Independently troubleshoot and repair PLC-based control systems and automated equipment
• Diagnose electrical, controls, and instrumentation issues with minimal supervision
• Modify PLC logic, HMI screens, and control parameters under engineering standards
• Install, test, and commission control panels, field devices, and automation components
• Perform advanced troubleshooting of VFDs, servos, sensors, and industrial networks
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and automation upgrades
• Assist with root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
• Mentor and support Automation Controls Technician I staff
• Maintain accurate documentation, backups, and change records
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, electrical codes, and LOTO procedures
• Provide technical support during equipment startups, shutdowns, and downtime events
• Accountable to the SunOpta Manufacturing Food Safety and Quality Principles.
• All other duties, as assigned.
• Assist in coaching and training employees as requested by the management team.
• Completes and adheres to the Annual Alchemy Schedule.
• Other duties, as assigned.
  
  

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Associate degree or technical certificate in Automation, Electronics, Mechatronics, or related field preferred
• 0–2 years of experience in industrial maintenance, automation, or controls (internship or apprenticeship acceptable) for a Level I position; 3-5 years of experience in industrial automation, controls, or maintenance for a Level II role.
• Basic understanding of PLCs, industrial controls, and electrical systems for a Level I candidate; strong working knowledge is required for a Level II candidate.
• Familiarity with hand tools, electrical test equipment, and basic troubleshooting techniques
• Ability to read basic electrical diagrams and technical documentation for a Level I; Level II candidates will also need to be able to modify electrical schematics and ladder logic.
• In addition, Level II candidates require experience troubleshooting control panels, field devices, and automation networks plus proficiency with electrical test equipment and diagnostic tools.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to PLC platforms (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.) for Level I candidates; experience with PLC platforms for Level II.
• Basic knowledge of HMIs, VFDs, and industrial networks for Level I candidates; experience with HMI development and troubleshooting for Level II.
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude
• Willingness to learn and take direction
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• In additional, Level II candidates require familiarity with Ethernet/IP, Profinet, or other industrial networks, ability to train and guide junior technicians, plus VFO, servo, and motion control experience.
  
  

Additional Considerations

• Location: This role is at our SunOpta Plant in Allentown, PA.
• Shift: This is a night shift position on a 2-2-3 pattern; 5:30 pm to 6:00 am.
• Level: Position / Level offered with be determined at time of offer based on skillset and prior experience in a similar role.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work in industrial environments (noise, heat, moving equipment)
• May require shift work, weekends, overtime, or on-call support
  
  

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED