Controls Technician

Job Title: Controls Technician Location: Lakeland Reports to: Maintenance Supervisor Job Summary The Controls Technician is responsible for the maintenance, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of plant electrical, controls, and automation systems. This role ensures safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations by diagnosing and resolving issues involving PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, robotics, servo systems, industrial networks, and associated electrical and electromechanical equipment. The Controls Technician works independently and collaboratively with Maintenance, Engineering, Operations, and external vendors to support equipment reliability and process performance. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Controls & Electrical Systems Support Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair plant electrical, controls, and automation systems Diagnose electrical, electronic, mechanical, and control system failures using root cause analysis Independently perform advanced troubleshooting and implement corrective actions without assistance Support PLC-based systems, including program diagnostics, downloads/uploads, and modifications Automation & Equipment Troubleshooting Support PLC systems (Allen‑Bradley preferred) Support HMIs and SCADA systems (e.g., Wonderware, Intellution) Support servo systems, robotics, and motion control Support PID control loops, heat systems, and process controls Identify and resolve issues in sensors, relays, instrumentation, and industrial communication systems Installation, Modification & MOC Install, modify, and validate electrical wiring and control components in compliance with code Execute Management of Change (MOC) processes and maintain accurate documentation Support fabrication, installation, and system modifications to meet engineering and regulatory requirements Maintenance & Reliability Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on electrical and control systems Maintain accurate records of repairs, calibrations, and inspections Utilize SAP (or equivalent CMMS) for work orders, parts, and maintenance documentation Support reliability and waste reduction initiatives across the plant Systems & Process Support Support bulk ingredient systems, refrigeration systems, and process equipment Support industrial communication networks (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, DH+, etc.) Utilize electrical test equipment to diagnose circuit and component failures Safety, Quality & Compliance Adhere to all safety standards including Lockout/Tagout, Arc Flash, and electrical safety programs Follow GMP, food safety, and environmental compliance requirements Perform scheduled safety and environmental inspections and ensure corrective actions are completed Identify and escalate safety, compliance, or system design risks Collaboration & Training Interface with operators, maintenance technicians, engineering, vendors, and contractors to resolve issues Provide technical guidance and support during equipment troubleshooting and installations Train and mentor maintenance technicians, setup technicians, and operators as needed Scope of Responsibility : Responsible for maintaining and improving plant control systems and automation reliability. Operates with a high level of independence in troubleshooting and decision making. Direct impact on equipment uptime, process consistency, and operational efficiency. Technical & Functional Knowledge PLC troubleshooting and programming support (Ladder Logic, I/O diagnostics) Industrial networks: Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, ControlNet, Modbus, DH+ SCADA and HMI systems used in manufacturing environments Servo systems, VFDs, robotics, and motion control Electrical systems from 24V DC to 480V AC, PID loops, sensors, relays, and instrumentation Refrigeration and process control systems Explosion‑proof and intrinsically safe environments Read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic, and engineering drawings Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CMMS systems (SAP preferred) Education & Experience Required High School Diploma or GED. Vocational or technical training in electrical, electronics, or industrial controls OR minimum 5 years of relevant experience. Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot and repair complex control systems. Preferred Technical certification or diploma in Industrial Controls or Automation 5+ years of PLC troubleshooting experience using Ladder Logic Experience with Allen‑Bradley hardware and software platforms Experience supporting robotic or automated manufacturing systems Additional Requirements Must be willing to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and overtime Must participate in ongoing technical training to stay current with advancing technologies Position awarded based on qualifications, experience, attendance, and business need. Physical & Work Environment: Work performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery and electrical systems, noise and temperature variation, industrial hazards and elevated/confined spaces. Requires standing, walking, climbing, bending, and hands‑on troubleshooting. Requires use of appropriate PPE. Individual base pay depends on work location and additional factors such as experience, job‑related skills, and relevant education or training. Total pay may include other forms of compensation. In addition, we offer competitive health, dental, 401k and wellness benefits beginning on the first day of employment. The Company is committed to providing equal opportunity for employees and qualified applicants in all aspects of the employment relationship, including consideration for employment, without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, marital status, protected veteran status, disability, age, religion, or any other classification protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr