Controls Technician

Thompson First Group is seeking an Industrial Automation & Controls Technician for a direct hire opportunity with a local manufacturing client.

Candidates with experience troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, instrumentation, control systems, and industrial automation equipment are encouraged to apply. This is a hands-on maintenance position supporting critical manufacturing operations in a heavy industrial environment.

Responsibilities:

• Accident prevention – actively identify, correct, and/or report safety hazards to prevent accidents.
• Troubleshoot and repair automation and control system components including PLCs, HMIs, sensors, transmitters, control valves, and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).
• Diagnose and resolve faults within control panels, I/O systems, instrumentation loops, and industrial communication networks.
• Perform routine inspections, testing, and preventive maintenance on automation and instrumentation equipment.
• Calibrate process instrumentation including pressure, temperature, flow, and level devices.
• Conduct loop checks, signal tracing, and input/output verification to ensure proper system operation.
• Support electrical and mechanical maintenance teams during equipment breakdowns involving automation and control systems.
• Maintain accurate documentation including wiring diagrams, control system drawings, logic documentation, and instrumentation records.
• Assist with installation, commissioning, and startup of new control equipment and field instrumentation.
• Participate in root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives to improve equipment reliability and plant performance.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, P&IDs, and technical documentation.
• Communicate equipment status, repairs, and corrective actions with maintenance personnel, operators, engineers, and supervisors.
• Maintain a safe and clean work environment by complying with company policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Complete maintenance records, calibration reports, and work orders accurately.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Must be able to fulfill essential job functions in a consistent state of alertness and in a safe manner.

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical Certificate or Associate Degree in Industrial Automation, Instrumentation, Electrical Technology, or a related field preferred.
• Previous experience maintaining industrial automation, instrumentation, and control systems.
• Working knowledge of Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar PLC and HMI platforms.
• Experience with instrumentation calibration and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with analog and digital control circuits, motor controls, and industrial communication networks.
• Experience troubleshooting VFDs and process control equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and P&IDs.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work safely in an industrial manufacturing environment that includes exposure to moving equipment, high temperatures, noise, and confined spaces.

**Thompson First Group is an equal opportunity employer and participates in E-Verify. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity