Controls Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Controls Technician

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled Controls Technician to support the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and improvement of automated manufacturing equipment. This individual will work closely with maintenance, engineering, and production teams to identify equipment issues, minimize downtime, and improve the reliability of plant automation systems.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment, electrical systems, HMIs, sensors, motor controls, and industrial automation components. This is a floor-focused position requiring someone who can diagnose problems efficiently and provide practical solutions in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and repair automated manufacturing equipment and industrial control systems.
• Diagnose electrical, electronic, mechanical, and controls-related equipment failures.
• Monitor and troubleshoot PLC programs to identify equipment and process issues.
• Troubleshoot HMIs, VFDs, servo systems, motors, sensors, relays, and control panels.
• Perform electrical troubleshooting using schematics, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic equipment.
• Support the installation, startup, and commissioning of new equipment and automation systems.
• Make minor PLC and HMI program adjustments when necessary.
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on automated equipment.
• Identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability, cycle time, safety, and overall performance.
• Assist with control-panel wiring, component replacement, and system upgrades.
• Work with production personnel to resolve equipment issues and reduce unplanned downtime.
• Document repairs, program changes, equipment issues, and maintenance activities.
• Maintain backups of PLC, HMI, and other controls programs.
• Support root-cause analysis and corrective-action initiatives.
• Follow all plant safety, quality, and environmental procedures.
• Provide technical support and controls-related guidance to maintenance technicians and equipment operators.
• Coordinate with equipment manufacturers, integrators, and outside contractors as needed.

Qualifications

• Associate degree, technical diploma, or certificate in Industrial Automation, Electrical Technology, Mechatronics, Electronics, or a related field preferred.
• Two or more years of industrial controls, automation, electrical maintenance, or related manufacturing experience.
• Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled machinery and automated production equipment.
• Working knowledge of Allen-Bradley or Siemens PLC systems preferred.
• Experience with HMIs, VFDs, motor controls, sensors, safety circuits, and industrial networks.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Understanding of AC and DC electrical systems.
• Familiarity with control-panel components and industrial electrical troubleshooting.
• Ability to use multimeters and other electrical diagnostic equipment safely.
• Experience with robotics, servo systems, vision systems, or motion control is a plus.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with maintenance, engineering, and production teams.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.

Physical and Work Requirements

• Ability to work in an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and work around production equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds when necessary.
• Willingness to respond to equipment breakdowns and production-related issues.
• Availability to work the assigned shift, including occasional overtime or weekend support as needed.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Retirement plan
• Training and professional-development opportunities
• Opportunity to work with advanced manufacturing and automation