PLC Controls Technician

Job Description

What You'll Do

You will perform maintenance activities on PLC and controls systems within a cold storage automated facility, including preventative and corrective tasks, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement efforts. You will maintain accurate records of work performed and ensure the work area is kept clean. Occasional travel by automobile and airplane may be required for business purposes.

Essential Functions

• Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on PLC and controls systems in a cold storage automated facility.
• Troubleshoot electrical and control system issues and conduct overhauls or rebuilds as needed.
• Support continuous improvement activities related to facility automation and controls.
• Maintain accurate documentation of work performed using a computerized maintenance management system.
• Ensure cleanliness of the work area and complete housekeeping duties as required.
• Complete related work and other job assignments as directed.
• Travel by automobile and airplane for business purposes as required.
• Other essential duties may be applicable and assigned as necessary.

What Experience and Education You Need

• Minimum 5 years of PLC/Controls and mechatronic systems maintenance experience in an automated facility required.
• Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT) or equivalent certification required.
• Proficient in preventative and corrective maintenance activities including troubleshooting, overhauls, rebuilds, and continuous improvement for electrical systems and controls.
• Proven ability to work with electrical wiring of equipment, system control panels, and diagrams or schematics including 3-phase electrical systems.
• Demonstrated proficiency with industrial machine ethernet, DeviceNet, PROFIBUS or similar communication systems and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

What Could Set You Apart

• Experience programming PLC systems.
• Familiarity with Siemens and SEW Eurodrive systems.
• Knowledge of change management methodology related to programming system controls.
• Understanding of concepts of preventative and predictive maintenance techniques, tools, and processes.
• Knowledge of SAP or Oracle systems.
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly to team members and stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

Physical Requirements

• Able to tolerate working environment with inside controlled temperatures of minus 45 (-45) degrees Fahrenheit (-43 degrees Celsius) and outside ambient temperatures (including heat, cold, and precipitation).

• Able to work at heights in excess of 30 ft. (9 meters) and access elevated platforms, catwalks, and roofs.

• Able to work in confined areas.

• Able to climb ladders and stairs.

• Able frequently to stand, walk, push, pull, reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, and/or crouch.

• Able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds (23 kg) frequently.

• Able to operate hand and power tools safely.

• Able to meet specific vision abilities required by this job including close vision, distance vision, color vision, and depth perception. (Use of contacts are prohibited when working with ammonia.)

• Depending on specific role, able to pass a physical and respiratory/respirator fit exam.

• Able to frequently step up/on or step down/off to mount and dismount material handling equipment.

• Able to perform fine articulation movements with fingers/hands and/or feet to operate equipment.

• Able to wear personal protective equipment required for any/all tasks.

Americold is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability status as a protected veteran or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws. EOE/AA M/F/D/V.

About Us

Join the Cold Chain That Feeds the World.
For over 120 years, Americold has connected producers, processors, distributors, and retailers to ensure food stays safe, fresh, and accessible. With 240+ facilities across four continents and 14,000+ team members, we're a global leader in temperature-controlled logistics. Our mission is to help our customers feed the world - and we're looking for people who share that purpose. We value customer service, innovation, and inclusion, and we invest in our people's growth and well-being. If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in a company that puts people first, Americold is the place for you.