Maintenance Automation Technician
The position of Automation Maintenance Engineer is available at our facility in Dakota, IL. As an Automation Technician, you will play a crucial role in the programming, setup, repair, and troubleshooting of our automated machine operations on the production floor. Your responsibilities will include working with automation controls such as PLCs, VFDs, and logic-based control systems. You will also collaborate with maintenance mechanical technicians, facilities technicians, and production personnel to ensure smooth operations.
We are a renowned food manufacturer, known for our popular brands of coffees, energy drinks, and cheese products!
Benefits:
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Work only 14 days per month!
- Company-provided relocation assistance
- State-of-the-art automated facilities
- No required travel
- No vaccine requirement
Skills and Abilities:
- Proficiency in using Microsoft Office products
- Strong knowledge of Allen-Bradley PLC programming, setup, and troubleshooting
- Expertise in working with Allen-Bradley PLCs, VFDs, and machine vision systems (Cognex / Keyence)
- Familiarity with HMI screen development and configuring and programming remote I/O devices like Ethernet IP or Modbus
- Ability to implement and validate automation changes to control system hardware and software
- Capability to read process diagrams, mechanical drawings, and electrical schematics
- Sound understanding of applying engineering solutions while considering budget, schedule, and operational performance
- Proficiency in troubleshooting various automation systems and providing training to operations and maintenance personnel on automated processes
- Solid knowledge of control components and wiring up to 480 Volts
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Comply with policies, safety standards, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and Food Safety regulations, reporting any issues to management
- Lead and support control system repairs, ensuring proper function for optimal throughput
- Independently handle work orders and preventive maintenance tasks
- Assist in maintaining a library of device backups and updates
- Document software and hardware changes, including electrical and process & instrumentation prints
- Collaborate with the Network Administrator to maintain the Facility Controls Network
- Analyze key plant metrics/KPIs and equipment data to identify areas for continuous improvement
- Provide effective production support in close cooperation with production and maintenance supervisors
- Ensure equipment in the area is properly maintained, guarded, and operated according to safety regulations
Training, Education & Experience:
- Technical degree in a relevant field, AAM graduation, or equivalent experience
- Extensive experience with automation software, controls, and PLCs
- Strong overall electrical knowledge and expertise with control systems
- Excellent communication and team-building skills
- Experience in a food processing plant is a plus
- High School Diploma or equivalent required
- Technical school, coursework, or degree is considered advantageous
Working Conditions:
- Indoor work environment
- Walking on wet and slippery floors
- Standing/Walking for 12 hours
- Night shifts from 5:40 pm to 6 am on a 2-2-3 every other weekend schedule