Automation Technician

Automation Technician

Martin Energy Group is seeking an Automation Technician to assist with the development, programming, testing, and commissioning of industrial automation and control systems. This position will work under the direction of experienced Controls Engineers to support PLC programming, SCADA development, electrical control systems, and equipment integration.

The ideal candidate will have a foundational understanding of industrial automation, electrical systems, and control logic, along with strong troubleshooting skills and a willingness to learn. This position offers opportunities for technical development and advancement as the employee gains experience and demonstrates proficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs under the direction of experienced Controls Engineers.
• Assist with implementing equipment sequencing, interlocks, permissives, alarms, and process control logic.
• Translate control narratives and sequences of operation into PLC logic with engineering guidance.
• Support integration of PLCs with instrumentation, motor controls, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and other industrial equipment.
• Assist with testing, debugging, and documenting PLC programs.
• Assist with developing and maintaining HMI and SCADA applications using the Ignition platform.
• Create and modify operator interface screens, equipment graphics, alarm displays, and process trends.
• Configure and troubleshoot SCADA tags, communication connections, and equipment interfaces.
• Assist with integrating PLC data into SCADA applications.
• Learn and apply company standards for HMI development and control system documentation.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, control panel drawings, and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Assist with troubleshooting industrial control circuits, instrumentation, and electrical equipment.
• Support the selection, configuration, and installation of industrial automation components.
• Apply a basic working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and industrial electrical safety practices.
• Work with engineering personnel to identify and resolve electrical and controls issues.
• Assist with factory acceptance testing (FAT), equipment startup, and field commissioning.
• Verify PLC inputs and outputs, instrumentation signals, alarms, and equipment interlocks.
• Troubleshoot control system and communication issues under engineering supervision.
• Document testing activities, programming changes, and system configurations.
• Provide technical assistance to engineering, production, and field service personnel.
• Travel to project sites as needed to support equipment startup and commissioning.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in Automation Technology, Electrical Technology, Industrial Electronics, Mechatronics, or a related technical field; or equivalent technical training and relevant experience.
• Basic knowledge of PLC programming concepts and industrial control logic.
• Familiarity with industrial HMI or SCADA systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and P&IDs.
• Understanding of basic electrical principles, control circuits, and industrial instrumentation.
• Basic familiarity with the National Electrical Code (NEC).
• General computer proficiency and aptitude for learning technical software.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to follow technical instructions and work effectively under engineering supervision.
• Good communication, organizational, and documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience programming PLCs using ladder logic, function block diagrams, or structured text.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider Electric, AutomationDirect, or similar PLC platforms.
• Familiarity with Inductive Automation Ignition SCADA, including Perspective or Vision.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as Modbus TCP, Ethernet/IP, or OPC UA.
• Experience with VFDs, motor starters, sensors, transmitters, and other industrial control equipment.
• Basic knowledge of SQL databases, Python scripting, or industrial networking.
• Experience with electrical control panel assembly, testing, or troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with industrial power generation equipment or process control systems.
• Previous experience with equipment commissioning or industrial automation projects.

Professional Development and Advancement

The Automation Technician position is intended to provide opportunities for continued technical development. Employees will work alongside experienced Controls Engineers to gain proficiency in PLC programming, SCADA development, control system integration, and commissioning.

As employees demonstrate increased technical knowledge, independent problem-solving ability, and proficiency in automation system development, they may be considered for advancement to an Automation Specialist position.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, in-office position based at Martin Energy Group's Tipton, Missouri location. The position involves office-based programming, shop-floor testing, and occasional field commissioning. Employees may work around industrial electrical and mechanical equipment and must follow established safety procedures.

Occasional travel to customer facilities or project sites may be required.