Automation Technician

Magnet-Schultz of America has over 140 team members all jointly focused on the creation of the highest quality electromagnetic devices. A shared enthusiasm for continuous improvement and the desire to better serve our customers make MSA an organization that fosters sustainable growth. MSA strives to accomplish its business goals through the structured development of the capabilities of both the organization as a whole and the individual employee.

Location: Westmont, IL

Job Id: 114

# of Openings: 1

Would you like to join our Team where a shared enthusiasm for continuous improvement and the desire to better serve our customers make us foster sustainable growth? Magnet Schultz of America (MSA) is proud to be part of the wider Magnet-Schultz group, a fourth-generation, family-owned engineering group headquartered in Germany.

MSA strives to accomplish its business goals through the structured development of the capabilities of both the organization as a whole and the individual employee.

• Our employees choose an attitude of gratitude.
• All jobs are opportunities and provide value to the customers.
• We don’t blame, we take ownership.
• We do not simply follow our passion. We bring it with us.
• We are committed to providing a safe work environment.

Position Summary

The Automation Technician is responsible for providing advanced technical support for automated manufacturing and facility systems, including PLCs, robotics, HMIs, industrial networks, and electrical controls. This role leads equipment reliability efforts, TPM activities, root cause investigations, and automation improvement projects while serving as a subject matter expert for controls and automation systems. Success in this role is measured through improvements in uptime, reliability, OEE, maintenance effectiveness, and overall operational performance.

Job Requirements

• Associate Degree in Automation Technology, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 6+ years of experience troubleshooting and maintaining automated manufacturing equipment.

Experience reading, troubleshooting, and modifying PLC programs written in Structured Text, including debugging logic and supporting automation improvements.

• Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, including ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Studio.
• Experience programming and troubleshooting Beckhoff PLCs, TwinCAT software, and EtherCAT networks is a plus.
• Experience supporting and troubleshooting FANUC CNC and robotic systems.
• Strong knowledge of industrial electrical systems, motor controls, VFDs, servos, sensors, and instrumentation.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic, P&IDs, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Experience with HMI, machine vision, and industrial networking systems.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting skills in electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Experience utilizing CMMS systems to manage preventive maintenance and equipment history.
• Strong understanding of TPM, reliability-centered maintenance, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Ability to perform root cause analysis using structured problem-solving techniques.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, data analysis, and KPI reporting.
• Ability to work independently and support production in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience implementing and sustaining TPM programs.
• Demonstrated success improving OEE, MTBF, MTTR, PM Compliance, and Equipment Availability.
• Experience with FANUC robotics systems, including troubleshooting, programming.
• Experience with Beckhoff automation platforms, TwinCAT programming, and EtherCAT networks.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and FactoryTalk applications.
• CMMS experience.
• Project leadership experience supporting automation upgrades and capital projects.

TPM Ownership

• Serve as a TPM champion for automated equipment and controls systems.
• Lead reliability improvement initiatives.
• Drive autonomous and planned maintenance activities.
• Facilitate root cause analysis.

Hourly Rate: $43.00- $55.00 per hour with benefits (medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401k with match, paid time, etc)

*Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors: job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation.

We are committed to fair and equitable competition practices.

Magnet Schultz of America is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We do not discriminate based on: age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law. We're happy to provide reasonable accommodations to those with a disability for assistance in the application process.

Professional Development & Growth

Magnet-Schultz of America is committed to developing technical talent. While strong automation and controls experience is desired, we recognize that exceptional candidates may not possess every preferred skill listed. We are willing to invest in the right individual by providing training, mentorship, and hands-on development opportunities to strengthen technical competencies in areas such as robotics, PLC programming, industrial networking, TPM methodologies, and advanced automation systems. We value a strong troubleshooting mindset, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to continuous improvement as much as current technical expertise.