Controls Automation Technician

Controls Automation Technician

The Controls Automation Technician designs, programs, documents, installs, troubleshoots, and maintains electrical control systems, PLCs, HMI interfaces, and electro-mechanical automation equipment that support manufacturing operations. This role serves as the primary automation and controls resource in a manufacturing environment, directly impacting production efficiency, machine reliability, product quality, and employee safety. The technician partners closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Product Engineering, and Operations leadership to develop and implement controls solutions, drive continuous improvement, and shape the future of automation across the facility.

Responsibilities include:

• Design, develop, program, document, install, troubleshoot, and maintain electrical control systems, PLCs, HMI interfaces, and electro-mechanical automation equipment that support manufacturing operations.
• Create electro-mechanical interfaces in cooperation with Manufacturing Engineers and Design Engineers to meet safety, quality, and productivity requirements.
• Specify controls, interfaces, and electro-mechanical devices with an emphasis on standardization, selecting products that balance reliability and cost.
• Document system designs using AutoCAD or similar engineering design software to capture electro-mechanical and controls layouts accurately.
• Design control systems compliant with all applicable federal and state regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Develop logic for PLCs and software controls, document program steps clearly, and load programs to PLCs and PCs.
• Identify, recommend, and implement changes to improve safety, product quality, and manufacturing productivity.
• Develop and update machine operating procedures and instructions related to electronics and electro-mechanical interfaces in compliance with the ISO 9001 quality system.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose system failures, take necessary action to repair equipment, and implement improvements to prevent recurrence.
• Recommend and maintain an appropriate inventory of spare components to minimize equipment downtime and support reliable operations.
• Recommend equipment upgrades and new purchases, and participate in the development of ROI analyses for new tooling or equipment.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering and Product Engineering to implement process improvements, introduce new products, enhance equipment reliability, and increase safety, quality, and productivity throughout the facility.
• Take direct ownership of PLC, HMI, and machine control projects from concept through implementation, ensuring successful deployment and performance.
• Lead automation improvements that drive measurable productivity gains and improve overall plant performance.
• Influence equipment upgrades, capital investments, and process improvement initiatives by providing technical expertise and data-driven recommendations.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on controls and automation, working independently while supporting cross-functional teams in Operations, Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality.

Essential skills include:

• Hands-on experience with automation and PLC programming in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in PLC ladder logic programming for industrial control applications.
• Ability to design, program, and troubleshoot HMI systems and machine control interfaces.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for electrical control systems and electro-mechanical automation equipment.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar engineering design software for documenting electro-mechanical system designs.
• Excellent PC skills, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, for documentation, analysis, and communication.
• Outstanding oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels of the organization.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a structured approach to diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues.
• Demonstrated process improvement skills and experience implementing changes that enhance safety, quality, and productivity.

Additional skills and qualifications include:

• Degree from a two-year college in Electrical or Electronic Engineering, or a minimum of 6 years of related experience in a manufacturing operation.
• Experience designing and documenting electro-mechanical interfaces for automated manufacturing equipment.
• Experience in machine design, reliability engineering, and equipment performance optimization.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems and developing operating procedures in compliance with quality standards.
• Experience participating in or developing ROI analyses for new tooling, equipment upgrades, and capital investments.
• Comfort working as a primary automation and controls resource, providing guidance and technical leadership across the facility.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional engineering and operations teams.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a track record of identifying and implementing productivity and automation enhancements.

Work environment involves hands-on interaction with automated manufacturing equipment and electrical control systems, frequently interacting with PLCs, HMI systems, electro-mechanical automation equipment, and AutoCAD or similar design software. The position involves close collaboration with Operations, Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality teams in a team-oriented culture where engineering solutions have a direct and visible impact on plant performance. The organization promotes a continuous improvement mindset, encouraging employees to identify and implement productivity and automation enhancements. The technician has the opportunity to work independently, serving as the site's subject matter expert on controls and automation, while contributing to equipment upgrades, manufacturing process improvements, and long-term reliability initiatives in a stable manufacturing environment with opportunities for growth and career advancement.

Job type and location: This is a contract position based out of Durham, NC.

Pay and benefits: The pay range for this position is $39.00 - $43.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave).

Workplace type: This is a fully onsite position in Durham, NC.

Application deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Oct 20, 2026.