Controls Technician

Controls Technician | Onsite in Winchester, VA | Pay: 93k - 100k/yrAs a Controls Technician, you will troubleshoot and resolve automation and control issues that impact production, quality, and safety. You will independently perform advanced troubleshooting of automation, instrumentation, and control systems for automated food processing, robotic, and material transfer systems. Additionally, you will lead engineering updates, changes, testing, and commissioning of automation modifications for multiple high-speed production lines. Your role includes designing, implementing, and recommending automation solutions for existing equipment and new production line projects.ResponsibilitiesPerform scheduled and condition-based preventive maintenance on automation and control systems.Document completed work in the CMMS through maintenance work orders and create and prioritize follow-up work as needed.Research, recommend, and implement automation improvements to enhance equipment reliability and uptime.Plan, lead, and execute automation preventive maintenance initiatives to minimize unplanned downtime.Apply creative problem-solving and root cause analysis to identify systemic automation issues and implement long-term solutions.Train, coach, and mentor operators, maintenance technicians, and peers on automation systems and procedures, particularly for packaging and high-speed equipment.Lead and support special projects related to automation upgrades, retrofits, and new equipment installations.Collaborate with peers and cross-functional partners to share technical expertise and standardize automation practices.Conduct obsolescence assessments of control systems; identify high-risk components and develop upgrade and replacement strategies.Recommend automation spare parts and manage critical automation inventory.Perform additional instrumentation and electrical duties as assigned.Essential SkillsMinimum 4 years of experience in industrial automation or controls within a manufacturing environment.Mandatory experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs.Experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, which may include plastics.Proficiency in PLC programming, troubleshooting, and controls engineering.Experience with RS Logics, Sleek 500, PLC 5, and FactoryTalk.Ability to troubleshoot rather than program from scratch.Familiarity with electrical and PLC platforms.Ability to read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics.Additional Skills & QualificationsAssociate's degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation or controls within a manufacturing environment, with a preference for food or high-speed packaging.Strong knowledge of control panel design, layout, and troubleshooting.Extensive experience with VFDs and HMIs.Hands-on experience with SCADA systems.Proven ability to communicate effectively and resolve issues across multiple departments and organizational levels.Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.Demonstrated capability to act as a technical leader and trainer within assigned plant areas or machine centers.Strong understanding of automation, instrumentation, and control products and related engineering principles.Familiarity with automation suppliers and OEM equipment.Work EnvironmentThis position is onsite, with working hours from 7 am to 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday, and on-call support once every three weeks. The facility is a food manufacturing company, primarily focused on pasta production. The workplace culture is supportive, welcoming, and community-oriented, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance and treating employees as individuals. Training and skill development are prioritized, with internal workshops and leadership development programs available. There is a strong promote-from-within philosophy, particularly in operations, maintenance, engineering, quality, and leadership roles.Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Winchester, VA.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $93000.00 - $100000.00/yr.Fully vested 401k with a 5% match. PTO starts at 10 days/year. Holidays – we observe 9 holidays per year; if employees are scheduled to work on a holiday they receive 2x their hourly rate, plus 8 hours Holiday Pay. Sick Days – Employees receive 2 paid sick days per year in addition to usable points and PTO. We also have a monthly 2h appointment allowance. You are eligible to join the Company's benefits plan on the first day of the month following 30 days of employment. The Company benefits program offers medical, dental, vision, life insurance and disability coverage.