Automation Technician 3

Job Description

Title: Automation Technician

Location: West Columbia, SC


Hire Type: Contract to Hire
Shift: 2nd Shift (3:00PM - 11:30 PM) 3rd Shift (11:00 PM - 7:00 AM)
Pay: $25-$29 per hour (DOE)

Benefits: Insurance (Health, Medical, Dental), Paid Holidays, PTO, and More!


The Automation Technician supports automation engineering services by assisting in hardware and software design, development, troubleshooting, and maintenance of non-production automated systems. This role ensures the reliability, functionality, and continuous improvement of robotic and automation systems.

Job Duties:

• Maintain continuous operation of automation and robotic systems by adjusting, repairing, replacing, or modifying components.
• Troubleshoot and repair electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems and components.
• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on all subsystems and related components.
• Conduct preventive maintenance on robotic and process support equipment.
• Apply knowledge of PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) for troubleshooting and system support.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, mechanical diagrams, and complex automated system drawings.
• Properly use power tools and precision measuring equipment.
• Maintain a strong commitment to workplace safety and safe work practices.
• Analyze engineering test results and implement necessary changes to resolve system issues.
• Assist the automation engineering team in the qualification and validation of automated systems.
• Record test procedures, results, data, and recommendations for improvements.
• Maintain software, documentation, and equipment according to the latest revision or operational specifications.
• Assist engineers in developing and designing hardware and software for automation solutions.
• Train other technicians and operators on products, processes, and equipment operations.
• Support engineers with customer presentations and interface directly with clients when required.
• Assist engineers in collaborating with third-party automation developers.
• Organize and maintain documentation, including specifications, schematics, and procedures.

Qualifications:

• Associate degree or technical certification in Automation, Mechatronics, Electrical, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 2+ years of experience in automation, robotics, or maintenance within a manufacturing or engineering environment preferred.
• Strong understanding of electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Working knowledge of PLCs and robotic systems.
• Ability to read and interpret complex schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Excellent troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong safety awareness and adherence to safety standards.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Meet Your Recruiter

Lauren Rexford
Technical Recruiter

I am a Recruiter at Sterling Engineering, where I support Flex-related positions across a wide range of skill sets, including HR, technicians, engineers, and more. I have been recruiting for nearly three years and joined Sterling in October 2025, and I am loving every minute of it.

I have a passion for recruiting because I love being part of the people industry. I enjoy building relationships, learning about each candidate's goals, and helping pair the right person with the best opportunity. For me, recruiting is about more than filling a role. It is about creating long-term success for both the client and the candidate.

I am also a Certified Staffing Professional through the American Staffing Association, which reflects my commitment to staffing best practices, industry knowledge, and delivering a high-quality experience throughout the recruiting process.

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Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you've got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now.