Automation Technician

Cheney, WA | Full-Time | Some U.S. & International Travel

What Makes This Opportunity Attractive

This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in a major automation expansion within a stable and growing manufacturing organization.

You'll help implement, commission, maintain, and optimize advanced automated manufacturing equipment while receiving specialized training throughout North America and Europe. Over time, you'll become one of the organization's internal experts on highly automated fabrication systems.

Why Consider This Role?

• Support a significant investment in automation and advanced manufacturing
• Opportunity for training in the U.S., Canada, and Europe
• Work with CNC machinery, robotics, PLC-controlled equipment, and automated material handling systems
• Long-term career growth in a technically advanced manufacturing environment
• Employer-paid medical and dental coverage
• Paid travel expenses and per diem
• Competitive compensation of $42-$55/hour , depending on experience and qualifications

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a hands-on technical professional to support the implementation, startup, maintenance, and long-term reliability of advanced automated sheet metal fabrication equipment.

Working closely with equipment manufacturers, integrators, engineering, and production teams, you will help ensure these systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably while supporting ongoing continuous improvement initiatives.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys learning new technologies, working with advanced equipment, and taking ownership of critical manufacturing systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Support installation, startup, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance of automated manufacturing equipment
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance to maximize equipment reliability and uptime
• Maintain PLC-controlled systems, servo motors, drives, sensors, safety devices, and electrical control components
• Support mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and automation systems
• Work closely with equipment manufacturers and integrators during implementation projects
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation
• Maintain maintenance records and documentation within CMMS systems
• Assist with development of maintenance procedures, spare parts programs, and reliability standards
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, reliability, and efficiency

What Will Help You Succeed

• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude
• Experience maintaining industrial equipment or automated manufacturing systems
• Desire to learn advanced automation technologies
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of assigned systems
• Strong communication and documentation skills
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Willingness to travel extensively

Preferred Experience

• Industrial maintenance, automation, controls, robotics, CNC equipment, mechatronics, or similar environments
• Experience with PLC-controlled equipment and industrial automation systems
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical drawings
• Experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems
• Experience using CMMS platforms

Education

• Degree, diploma, certification, or formal training in Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, Electrical Technology, Automation, Engineering Technology, Millwrighting, or a related field preferred
• Equivalent hands-on experience will be considered

Travel Requirements

• Approximately 75% travel during the first year for implementation, training, and startup support
• Approximately 40% travel long term
• Domestic and international travel, including training opportunities in Canada and Europe

Compensation & Benefits

Pay: $42-$55/hour, depending on experience and qualifications

Benefits Include:

• Employer-paid medical and dental coverage
• Paid travel expenses and per diem
• Significant technical training and development opportunities
• Stable manufacturing environment with ongoing investment in advanced automation technologies

Why This Role Stands Out

Few opportunities offer the chance to help build an automation program from the ground floor while developing expertise in highly advanced manufacturing systems. If you're looking for a role that combines hands-on maintenance, continuous learning, travel, and long-term career growth, we'd love to hear from you.

ABOUT US:

TPD is a leading workforce solutions provider with a mission to help individuals succeed by providing access to opportunities in jobs, careers, and professional development. A niche provider serving North America, we specialize in placing skilled candidates within the Manufacturing, Semiconductor, and Mining industries. Whether you seek flexible or permanent positions, we assist in starting, changing, or advancing careers in a way that aligns with your goals.

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace. All qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetics, age, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law, are strongly encouraged to apply. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.