Automation & Controls Technician

COMPANY OVERVIEW

We exist to make food the world loves. But we do more than that. Our company is a place that prioritizes being a force for good, a place to expand learning, explore new perspectives and reimagine new possibilities, every day. We look for people who want to bring their best - bold thinkers with big hearts who challenge one another and grow together. Because becoming the undisputed leader in food means surrounding ourselves with people who are hungry for what's next.

POSITION OVERVIEW

• Automation and Controls Technician
• Starting Pay: $39.58 per hour up to $45.88 per hour
• Shift differential for 2nd and 3rd shift
• 8-hour shift

Why Join Our Team

Our Geneva facility, located in the western Chicago suburbs in Kane County, joined the General Mills North America plant network in 2024. Here, we proudly produce Betty Crocker desserts, our iconic Gushers and Fruit Snacks. Our team is driven by being humble, hungry and smart and making a positive impact both within the company and in the local community (StandingforGood). General Mills is dedicated to employee growth. If you're looking for a safety-first environment where you can develop leadership skills, expand technical capabilities, and drive results, then GMI Geneva is an excellent place to build your career.

What We Have to Offer

• $39.58 per hour up to $45.88 per hour depending upon skillset and experience
  • Tech I: $39.58 per hour
  • Tech II: $45.88 per hour
  • Tech III: $51.39 per hour (Internal Advancement Opportunity)

• Additional $1.00 per hour shift differential for 2nd shift
• Additional $2.00 per hour shift differential for 3rd shift
• Up to 120 hours of vacation annually
• 11 paid company holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Medical, dental, life insurance
• Career growth and cross-training opportunities

Your Work Schedule and Shift Information

• 8-hour shifts
  • 1st shift: 6:45 am to 3 pm
  • 2nd shift: 2:45 pm to 11 pm
  • 3rd shift: 10:45 pm to 7 am

• On call rotation of approximately 1 week per month
• Ability and willingness to work scheduled on-call and weekend coverage
• Ability and willingness to work overtime, any shift, including days, nights, weekends, holidays and emergency events
• Plant operation is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

As part of our manufacturing team, you will:

• Be responsible for supporting, creating, integration, troubleshooting and improving a variety of processing/packaging controls systems including Wonderware, ArchestrA Systems, PLC
• Program, troubleshoot and maintain FANUC robotics systems, including integration and support of PLC systems
• Perform program adjustments and parameter tuning on robotic systems (e.g., FANUC) to enhance operational efficiency, including reducing cycle times and improving accuracy and repeatability
• Read and update electrical and control schematics, piping and instrumentation diagrams
• Provide technical support/skills for equipment troubleshooting and controls/equipment modifications
• Understand, initiate, and participate in Root Cause Analysis (Why, Why)
• Participate in Continuous Improvement initiatives to increase platform performance
• Assist in training new employees

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of a high school diploma or GED
• Must possess the ability to understand and effectively communicate with co-workers, supervisors, and others in the workplace regarding work matters (our business is generally conducted in English)
• 2+ years (minimum) experience in Controls Programming and Industrial Controls Technology or equivalent education in a related field/industry
• 3+ years (minimum) experience in programming and troubleshooting FANUC robotics within a manufacturing environment
• Experience integrating FANUC robots with PLC systems
• Ability to optimize robot performance for cycle time, accuracy, and repeatability through program adjustments and parameter tuning
• Knowledge and practical application with the following technology areas: PLC's, HMI's, process instrumentation, machine control systems, VFD's, servo drives, robotics, power distribution (<600V), control system networking, and electrical safety
• Working knowledge of pneumatic and hydraulic systems
• Experience in a manufacturing/production environment
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, push, pull, and twist for extended periods
• Willingness to work in hot, cold, noisy, wet, or dusty conditions
• Ability to climb and/or work at heights while utilizing stairs, ladders, personnel lifts, or platforms
• Ability to follow human and food safety, quality, and grooming standards
• Ability to wear such as protective clothing and equipment (Personal Protective Equipment -PPE) such as safety shoes, safety glasses, hearing protection, hard/bump cap, hair/beard net, gloves, and face masks (when required)
• Ability to work around high-speed machinery and food allergens

ELIGIBILITY

Applicants must meet a minimum 18-year age qualification.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER (EOE)

General Mills is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or familial status, status regarding public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission.

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