What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automation Technician position at TVS SUPPLY CHAIN SOLUTIONS NORTH AMERICA, INC.?
Summary
The Automation Technician assists production by ensuring automated equipment operates safely, efficiently, and reliably. This role emphasizes real-time troubleshooting, PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) interface adjustments, fine-tuning machine performance during operation, and supporting both Controls Engineering and Maintenance teams with automation-related tasks. The Automation Technician will report to the Maintenance Manager.
Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
- Monitor, troubleshoot, and adjust automated systems, PLC-controlled equipment, and machine settings during production to maintain optimal performance.
- Perform minor PLC logic edits and parameter changes (no full program development required).
- Use HMI screens to diagnose faults, adjust setpoints, and restore equipment to normal operation.
- Collaborate closely with Controls Engineering to escalate complex program or electrical design issues.
- Support Maintenance Technicians in diagnosing root causes of intermittent electrical, minor mechanical, and pneumatic automation failures.
- Conduct equipment start-up checks and assist with commissioning updates after repairs or changeovers.
- Maintain and update basic documentation, including parameter sheets, machine settings, and troubleshooting guides.
- Perform I/O checks and verify sensor, actuator, and device functionality during maintenance or troubleshooting activities.
- Assist with integrating new automation components (sensors, drives, vision devices, and safety devices).
- Perform minor wiring repairs, cable routing, and component replacements under supervision from Controls Engineering or per established procedures.
- Participate in continuous improvement efforts to increase uptime, reduce scrap, and improve cycle performance.
- Maintain strong communication with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams regarding equipment status, corrective actions, and improvement opportunities.
- Ensure adherence to all safety requirements, including LOTO (Lockout/Tagout), machine guarding, PPE, and safe electrical practices, consistent with training and certification levels.
- Participate in all TVS SCS quality and excellence initiatives.
Competencies
- Technical Troubleshooting
- Mechanical & Electrical Aptitude
- PLC/HMI Understanding
- Critical Thinking & Root Cause Analysis
- Communication & Collaboration
- Attention to Detail
- Safety Awareness
- Adaptability in Fast-Paced Production
Education and Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification in automation, mechatronics, industrial electronics, robotics, or related field preferred.
- 2 years of experience supporting automated production equipment in a manufacturing environment.
- Working knowledge of PLC/HMI systems (Allen Bradley or similar), including interpreting ladder logic and performing basic edits.
- Understanding of electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical systems as they relate to automated equipment.
- Experience using multimeters, basic electrical tools, and diagnostic equipment.
- Familiarity with industrial sensors, actuators, VFDs, and servo systems.
- Ability to read electrical schematics, ladder diagrams, and equipment manuals.
- CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) experience preferred.
- Hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment, including tire and wheel operations, is strongly preferred.
Travel
Local travel between facilities may be required.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, reach, and use hands for handling tools or components. The employee may occasionally be required to kneel, climb, or work in confined spaces. The employee may need to lift up to 51 pounds; assistance is required for anything above that weight. Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment
This job is performed within a manufacturing and warehouse environment, with seasonal temperatures, machinery noise, and regular exposure to forklift and industrial equipment traffic. Steel-toed shoes with metatarsal protection and standard PPE are required.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
Full-Time, Non-Exempt. Flexibility for overtime, extended hours, weekends, and on-call support is required based on production needs.
Other Duties
Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
TVS SCS NA is committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive culture as an EEO employer. The TVS SCS NA team does not discriminate against candidates and employees because of their disability, sex, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under the law within any employment practices. We are pleased to provide reasonable accommodations to applicants; please contact [Hope Molyneaux, JMolyneaux@tvsscs.com] to request a reasonable accommodation. The employee selected for this role must be able to perform the position's essential functions satisfactorily. If requested, reasonable accommodation will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.
TVS SCS NA complies with the CPRA: CALIFORNIA PRIVACY NOTICE
https://www.tvsscs.com/wp-content/uploads/securepdfs/2023/02/CALIFORNIA-PRIVACY-NOTICE-1_18_23.pdf
