Automation Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Automation Technician Job Description

As part of the Engineering Department, the Automation Technician will support and maintain the plant-wide Distributed Control System (DCS), standalone PLCs, and plant alarm systems. This role is primarily focused on hands-on implementation, operational troubleshooting, and day-to-day production support to ensure reliable system performance. The Automation Technician will work closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality Assurance, Information Technology, and Engineering to identify and resolve automation-related issues, support system modifications, and assist with maintaining automation documentation.

• Provide day-to-day automation support for Operations, Quality Assurance, Information Technology, Maintenance, and Production Engineering to ensure safe and efficient production operations.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to DCS, PLC, alarm systems, and associated instrumentation.
• Assist with the implementation and testing of automation system modifications and upgrades under the guidance of engineering leadership.
• Support startup activities, system commissioning, and validation efforts related to automation systems.
• Maintain and update loop sheets, system hierarchy documentation, drawings, and related records to ensure accurate system documentation.
• Coordinate with contractors and vendors performing automation-related work onsite and ensure compliance with applicable policies and procedures.
• Train end users on system updates and changes to support proper operation of DCS and related systems.
• Provide ongoing production support to minimize downtime and improve system reliability.
• Support capital projects by assisting with automation-related implementation activities as needed.
• Adhere to DEA, EPA, FDA, and cGMP regulations as they relate to the operation of the company, and comply with all company safety rules and procedures.

• Experience with equipment and instrumentation troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of instrument control systems, installation, testing, and maintenance practices.
• Familiarity with Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and other computer-based systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of cGMP and FDA regulated environments.

• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Instrumentation Technology, Automation Technology, Computer Engineering Technology, or a related technical discipline preferred.
• Candidates with other relevant educational backgrounds, technical training, military experience, or demonstrated automation competencies will be considered based on applicable experience and technical knowledge.
• Two or more years of experience supporting Distributed Control Systems (DCS), PLC systems, industrial automation systems, and/or plant alarm systems preferred.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley, Rockwell, and other DCS systems such as Honeywell, ABB, Emerson, Siemens.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with maintenance, QA, and engineering departments.

The work environment is fast-paced with two engineers currently onsite. The role requires the ability to be on call 24/7, with the possibility of being called in once a quarter. The position is located in a community that offers a small-town feel with access to larger city amenities.

This is a Contract position based out of Charles City, IA.

The pay range for this position is $28.41 - $42.61/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Charles City,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 3, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.