Automation Specialist

Job Title: Automation Specialist

Job Description

The Automation Specialist will support the automation and maintenance team in the production, lab, and processing environments. This role involves updating engineering drawings and schematics, as well as working with integrators and control vendors. You will be responsible for implementing and documenting electrical and control processes while overseeing the work of maintenance mechanics. Approximately 40% of your time will be dedicated to capital electrical and robotic projects, with the remaining time focused on maintenance and PLC programming.

Responsibilities

• Support production, lab, and processing equipment through automation and maintenance.

• Update and maintain engineering drawings and schematics as required.

• Spend 40% of the time on capital electrical and robotic projects.

• Focus remaining time on maintenance and PLC programming.

• Collaborate with integrators and control vendors to optimize processes.

• Implement and document electrical and control processes.

• Oversee and guide the work of maintenance mechanics.

Essential Skills

• Experience with automation and PLC programming.

• Proficiency in Allen Bradley PLC.

• Strong troubleshooting skills.

• Knowledge of robotics and schematics.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associates Degree in Robotics or related field.

• 6+ months of experience in PLC programming.

Work Environment

This position operates Monday through Friday on the 3rd shift, from approximately 3-4 PM until 12-1 AM. While there will be a desk available, the majority of your time will be spent on the production floor. Overtime is available and will be compensated accordingly. The role is situated in a stable industry with recent significant capital funding for automation and robotics upgrades, offering job stability and opportunities for career advancement into engineering roles.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Ankeny, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $65000.00 - $75000.00/yr.

Growing company that continues to invest in automation, stable industry within the food and spice industry.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Ankeny,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 10, 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 click.appcast.io 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.