Industrial Automation Controls Specialist (PLC/HMI & Vision)

Job Description

Job Description

Step into a day on Berner Food & Beverage’s automated line

You arrive to a production floor powered by advanced robotics and next‑generation controls. A filler trips a fault—within minutes, you trace it to a VFD feedback issue, update a rung in the PLC, and validate the HMI change. Later, you partner with maintenance techs on a machine vision tweak (Cognex/Keyence), sync backups to the controls library, and review KPIs with leadership to spot a throughput win. That’s a typical shift as our Automation Controls expert at Berner—North America’s co‑manufacturing leader in food & beverage.

What you’ll do

• Program, modify, and troubleshoot PLCs (Allen‑Bradley) and HMIs; configure remote I/O (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, or similar).
• Diagnose and repair automation issues across PLCs, VFDs, sensors, and machine vision; validate fixes to restore throughput.
• Read and interpret P&IDs, mechanical drawings, and electrical schematics; apply sound engineering judgment balancing budget, schedule, and performance.
• Document all software/hardware changes (including electrical and P&ID prints) and maintain robust device backups.
• Partner with the Network Administrator to sustain the Facility Controls Network (hardware and software).
• Support, mentor, and lead peers in controls troubleshooting; train production and maintenance teams on automated operations.
• Champion safety, GMPs, and Food Safety; ensure all equipment is guarded and operated to defined standards.

What you bring

• Strong background in automation software, controls, and PLCs; proficiency with Allen‑Bradley platforms and VFDs.
• Hands‑on HMI development experience and comfort with machine vision (Cognex/Keyence).
• Ability to configure and troubleshoot remote I/O; solid understanding of control components and wiring up to 480V.
• Fluency in Microsoft Office; excellent communication and team‑building skills.
• Education: Technical degree in a related field, AAM graduation, or equivalent experience; High School Diploma or equivalent required. Technical school or coursework is a plus.
• Food processing plant experience is a plus.

Schedule & environment

• Flexible rotating schedule—work approximately 14 days per month.
• 12‑hour night shifts (2‑2‑3, every other weekend).
• Indoor production setting; periods of standing/walking up to 12 hours; walking on wet or slippery floors.
• Relocation assistance available.

Pay & benefits

• Pay range: $32.00–$40.00 per hour, based on experience.
• $2.00 shift differential for PM shift.
• Medical, Vision, Dental, Flexible Spending, Basic Life & AD&D, Short‑ and Long‑Term Disability, EAP, and 401(k).
• Health benefits eligibility: 1st of the month after 60 days of employment.
• 401(k) eligibility: after 30 days of employment.

Note: This job description is not intended to be all‑inclusive. An employee may perform other related duties as needed to meet Berner Food & Beverage’s ongoing needs.