Automation & Controls Technician

Job Description

Job Description

As an Automation & Controls Technician at West Fraser, you will play a key role in the expansion of the automation and predictive controls capabilities (AI) of our OSB and lumber manufacturing network by providing remote technical support for our daily operations. Further responsibilities will include:

• From our Greenville office remotely monitoring the status of critical devices including electrical and mechanical components, circuitry, controls, robotics and other manufacturing machinery and assist in service, repair, and calibration of these devices for multiple OSB and lumber mills
• Analyzing and identifying causes of system issues and assist in breakdown recovery
• Assisting in set-up of new and replacement equipment
• Providing programming support for day-to-day process changes
• Troubleshooting as needed in coordination with onsite technicians
• Answering and logging system issues or requests for assistance from automated system monitors or mill manufacturing staff
• Assisting in upgrading facilities to conform to enhanced automation and digitization standards including providing onsite support of infrastructure installation and commissioning
• Implementing and maintaining West Fraser Analytics System (NAS), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Model Predictive Control (MPC), and Rockwell ECO System across all facilities

An Automation & Controls Technician will also support West Fraser’s mills with continuous improvement and project management objectives by:

• Developing PLC programs and HMIs in accordance with West Fraser standards and capital expense guidelines
• Providing data and support of mill level project analysis and execution
• Configuring tags and templates for process data collection, trending, and reporting
• Auditing changes in the mill automation environment
• Keeping firmware and software revisions up to date
• Support Automation team as needed

The ideal candidate will have:

• An Associate’s degree, equivalent, or greater in Mechatronics, Industrial Electrical, Engineering Technology OR equivalent prior experience as a Technician with good programming/technical skills and prior OSB experience
• Highly collaborative, technology savvy (proficiency in use of collaboration tools), and willing to learn
• Experience with VMware ESX, virtualization and other computer science fundamentals is preferred
• Proficient in programming and troubleshooting of Programmable Logic Controllers (preferably Rockwell ControlLogix)
• Ability to visualize physical processes to remotely assist field personnel in set up and troubleshooting
• Experience with VB, SQL, Python or Json programming is favorable
• Knowledge of, or willingness to learn the OSB and lumber manufacturing process
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills including ability to interpret and disseminate technical info to a wide range of skill sets and support roles
• Ability to work in shifts and variable schedules to support a 24/7 manufacturing schedule
• Ability to work well as a team and independently
• Traveling 20% of less to mill locations

Our highly competitive compensation package and outstanding benefits include:

• Benefits starting Day 1
• Competitive starting pay
• On-the-job training
• A culture that strongly believes in promoting from within
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401K with company match and additional retirement contribution
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Paid vacations and holidays

Apply:

If you are ready to build your career in a company that thrives on growth, a safe work environment, rewarding work, challenge, and opportunity, come build your career with us at West Fraser:

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please apply through our online application process. Be sure to attach your resume to your online profile as resumes will not be accepted at the site. No phone inquiries, please.

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company producing lumber, OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, pulp, newsprint, wood chips, and energy with over 60 facilities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. We are the largest lumber producer in North America, a leading global manufacturer of wood-based panels, and the world’s largest producer of oriented strand board (OSB).
We are a growing company, believe strongly in promoting from within, and pride ourselves on providing a challenging environment with continuous development. The successful candidate should be interested in future growth opportunities within the company.

West Fraser is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D & Drug-Free Workplace (DFW)