Controls Engineering Technician

Controls Engineering Technician

Union Technologies is reindustrializing America's defense manufacturing base with a first-of-its-kind Factories-as-a-Stockpile™ model, integrating advanced robotics, manufacturing, and software into sovereign factory systems at scale. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, UNION is dedicated to restoring America's industrial strength and guaranteeing deterrence for the century ahead.

We recently emerged from stealth with $50M in funding led by top-tier venture investors and strategic partners.

You are Controls Engineering Technician at Union Factory 1, your primary responsibility is to support the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of automation and control systems across manufacturing operations. This role works closely with the Staff Electrical and Control Engineer and cross-functional teams to ensure reliable operation of PLC-based systems, HMIs, and industrial automation equipment. A successful Controls Engineering Technician will demonstrate strong technical aptitude, hands on troubleshooting skills, and a commitment to maintaining safe and efficient operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Support installation, wiring, and commissioning of PLC-based control systems, HMIs, and industrial automation equipment
• Assist in troubleshooting and resolving electrical and controls-related issues on manufacturing equipment
• Perform routine maintenance and diagnostics on control systems, sensors, drives, and instrumentation
• Support debugging and minor modifications to PLC programs under the direction of Controls Engineers
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts
• Assist in building and modifying electrical panels and control systems
• Support integration of control systems with MES, ERP, and data collection systems as needed
• Maintain and update controls documentation including wiring diagrams, I/O lists, and system configurations
• Perform system checks to ensure proper operation of automation equipment
• Support equipment startups, testing, and commissioning activities
• Follow all safety procedures including lockout/tagout and electrical safety requirements
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and production teams to support equipment reliability
• Assist in identifying and implementing improvements to control systems and processes

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2 to 5 years of electrical experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Demonstrated experience troubleshooting industrial motor circuits and basic controls.
• Ability to work flexible hours including overtime, weekends, and an on call rotation.
• Strong understanding of electrical systems and industrial controls
• Basic knowledge of PLC systems (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent)
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
• Familiarity with industrial network protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, etc.) preferred
• Experience with sensors, drives, and instrumentation
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Hands on experience with tools and electrical equipment
• Good communication and teamwork abilities
• Ability to work in industrial environments with exposure to machinery and electrical systems
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)

Preferred / Bonus Skills

• Associate/ B.S. degree or technical certificate in electrical, electromechanical, or industrial controls.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to:

• Walk, stand, sit, bend, reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and move continually throughout the shift.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Occasional overhead lifting required.
• Climb ladders and work from elevated platforms. Work in confined spaces when permitted.
• Vision adequate for reading nameplates, drawings, and instrument displays, including peripheral vision, depth perception, and color discrimination for wire identification.
• Tolerate plant floor conditions: heat near forging operations, noise, vibration, hot metal, moving heavy equipment, and exposure to cutting fluids and oils.
• Work flexible hours including overtime and weekends to meet customer demands.

Personal Protective Equipment typically required to perform the essential functions of this job will be provided.