Automation Technician

Job Description:

Summary

This job is about keeping the equipment and control systems in a food manufacturing plant running smoothly. You’ll install, fix, test, and maintain machines and the computers that control them. You’ll help prevent breakdowns, solve problems quickly, and make sure everything meets safety and quality standards.

What You’ll Do

• Install, adjust, and maintain machines and the electronic systems that control food-processing equipment.

• Write and update computer programs that run the machines (PLC and SCADA systems).

• Figure out what’s causing equipment issues and repair them.

• Perform regular maintenance as well as unexpected repairs when things break.

• Read manuals, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings to understand how equipment works.

• Safely run plant utilities when needed—like steam, air systems, ammonia refrigeration, electricity, water, etc.

• Fix items assigned in the corrective action system within 30 days.

• Safely handle chemicals while wearing proper safety gear.

• Lead or help design and build large controls-related projects.

• Program, test, and launch new control systems for the plant.

• Stay trained and ready to serve on the emergency response team.

• Follow all food-safety rules and make sure your work always protects product quality.

• Respond quickly to calls from production when equipment controls stop working—keeping downtime as short as possible.

Skills Needed

• Strong technical/mechanical ability

• Good at solving problems

• Able to communicate clearly

• Comfortable using computers

• Good time management and able to work independently

Work Environment

You’ll work in offices, workshops, and the production plant. Sometimes you’ll be around loud noise, moving machines, chemicals, or extreme hot or cold temperatures.

Schedule

This is a full-time job on 11–12 hour shifts. The schedule alternates and includes weekends and holidays. You’ll also rotate being “on-call” for emergencies.

Travel

Very minimal—less than 5%.

Requirements

Required:

• High school diploma or GED

• Associate degree in a related technical field or equivalent work experience

• Proficiency in Basic computer skills

Preferred:

• Experience with ammonia refrigeration

• Bilingual in English/Spanish

Other:

• Must be at least 18

• Must have (or be able to get) a valid driver’s license