Automation Technician

At Furmano Foods, you’re joining a values‑driven company with a purpose far greater than profit. Since 1921, we’ve stayed true to our farm, faith, and family roots—nourishing our customers, team members, partners, the land, and the future. We take pride in crafting quality, shelf‑stable foods including beans, tomatoes, ancient grains, and vegetables for retail and foodservice markets nationwide. With competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a dedication to sustainability, we offer team members the opportunity to make a lasting impact while upholding a legacy of quality, service, and stewardship. Position Summary: The Automation Technician plays a vital role in supporting and advancing the automated systems throughout the food manufacturing facility. This individual will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and enhancement of electrical and control systems with a strong focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Education and Experience Associate degree in Electrical Technology or related field is strongly preferred. Minimum 3 years of experience in automation, instrumentation, or controls within a food manufacturing or industrial setting. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Ensure food safety compliance in all activities; report concerns promptly to supervisors or managers. Recommend and specify new automation systems and control solutions to improve plant efficiency. Maintain and troubleshoot electrical/electronic systems including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, servos, sensors, and associated hardware. Lead or support the design, programming, and installation of control systems using Allen‑Bradley or equivalent platforms. Collaborate on continuous improvement projects and plant‑wide modernization efforts. Assist with the execution and management of capital projects under the direction of the Director of Engineering. Provide day‑to‑day support for the Engineering and Maintenance Department, including documentation and scheduling. Maintain accurate and detailed records of work performed, including updates to schematics and software logs. Promote a culture of teamwork, integrity, and proactive communication. Perform other related duties as assigned. Skills and Competencies Proficiency in PLC programming and troubleshooting (especially Allen‑Bradley hardware/software). Working knowledge of operator interfaces (HMIs), robotics, VFDs, and servo systems. Ability to interpret and modify electrical schematics and automation documentation. Strong capabilities in ladder logic, control narratives, and system integration. Experience using AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, Word, and Project. Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to work in a cross‑functional team environment. Organized, detail‑oriented, and comfortable in a fast‑paced production environment. Physical Requirements Standing – Frequent to Continuous Walking – Frequent to continuous Sitting – Occasional to Frequent Lifting – Occasional to frequent (medium duty position, able to lift up to 30 lbs) Carrying – Occasional to frequent (medium duty position, able to carry up to 30 lbs) Climbing – Occasional Climbing ladders – Occasional Working with arms extended at shoulder level or above – Occasional Twisting and Turning – Frequent to continuous Reaching – Occasional to frequent Bending – Occasional to frequent Driving – Occasional Pushing and Pulling – Occasional Fine manipulation – Frequent Manual dexterity – Simple grasping frequent Operating equipment (electric and/or propane forklift) – Occasional Position Requirements OSHA tested and certified. Job Type Full‑time Work Schedule This position typically follows the shift schedule. Monday through Friday, with occasional Saturday and 12‑hour shifts during busy times. Common shifts: 2nd Shift (2:00 PM – 10:30 PM) or 3rd Shift (10:00 PM – 6:30 AM). Compensation Base salary up to $37.11 per hour. Bonus Incentives 2nd/3rd Shift Differential – $1.00 per hour Attendance Bonus – $0.50 per hour 1st Pass Quality Bonus – $0.50 per hour Benefits 401(k) and 401(k) matching Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health, vision, and life insurance Paid time off Referral program Corporate Chaplain On‑site Nurse Location Northumberland, PA 17857 – reliable commute or relocation required. Employment Type At‑will. Either party may terminate employment at any time. We are an equal‑opportunity employer and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, including those prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under the law. This job description describes the general nature of the duties and requirements of this job and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. #J-18808-Ljbffr