Maintenance Automation Technician

Food manufacturer of the brands you know - coffees, energy drinks, and cheese products! They need Automation Technicians to join their team. Location: near Rockford, IL

Why work here?

• Full benefits
• Work only 14 days per month!
  
• Relocation assistance is provided by the company!
• State-of-the-art automated facilities
• NO TRAVEL
• NO VACCINE REQUIREMENT

The Automation Technician is responsible for the PLC programming, setup, repair, and troubleshooting related to machine operations on the production floor. Automation Technicians will have a thorough understanding of automation controls including PLCs; VFD, and logic-based control systems. They work cross-functionally with other maintenance mechanical technicians, facilities technicians, and production personnel.

Skills and Abilities:

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products
• Proficiency in Allen-Bradley PLC programming, Setup, and troubleshooting.
• Proficient with Allen-Bradley PLCs, VFDs, and machine vision (Cognex / Keyence)
• Firm understanding of HMI screen development. Configure and program remote I/O devices such as Ethernet IP, Modbus, or similar.
• Implement and validate automation changes to the existing control system hardware and software.
• Ability to read process diagrams, mechanical drawings, and electrical schematics.
• Ability to apply sound engineering solutions while considering the budget, schedule, and operational performance.
• Ability to troubleshoot various automation systems and provide training to operations and other maintenance personnel on automated processes.
• Sound understanding of control components and wiring up to 480 Volts

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Understand and align with policies, safety standards, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and Food Safety. Identify and report Food Safety issues to management.
• Support, mentor, and lead efforts for controls system repairs and validate proper function to obtain throughput.
• Obtains and executes work orders and preventive maintenance tickets with little or no guidance.
• Assist in maintaining a library for all device back-ups and updates.
• Document changes made to software and hardware (Electrical and Process & Instrumentation prints).
• Work in conjunction with the Network administrator to maintain the Facility Controls Network (hardware and software)
• Review (with upper management) key plant metrics/KPIs and equipment data to identify potential areas for continuous improvement.
• Work closely with production and maintenance supervisors to provide effective support production throughout the shift.
• Ensure equipment in the area is maintained, guarded, and operated in accordance with defined safety regulations and procedures.

Training, Education & Experience:

• Technical degree in a related field, AAM graduation, or equivalent experience
• Strong experience with automation software, controls, PLCs
• Strong overall electrical knowledge and experience with control systems.
• Excellent communication skills and effective team-building skills are a must
• Experience in a food processing plant is a plus
• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Technical school, course work, or degree, is considered a plus

Working Conditions:

• Indoors
• Walking on wet and slippery floors
• Standing/Walking for 12 Hours
• 12-hour night shifts - 5:40 pm till 6 am (2-2-3 every other weekend Schedule)